Ryutan Pond
A serene pond near Shuri Castle, famous for its friendly koi, ducks, and picturesque castle views, especially at night.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Cool shade, fewer crowds
Ryutan Pond
Best Time
Cool shade, fewer crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene pond near Shuri Castle, famous for its friendly koi, ducks, and picturesque castle views, especially at night.
"A beautiful lake along the way to Shuri Castle park, offering shade and cute koi fish and turtles."
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for walking the paths around the pond. You can't walk the entire thing, but there's still plenty to see!
🚫 No Petting or Feeding
Admire the friendly koi and ducks, but resist the urge to pet or feed them. They might bite!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Koi Pond
Ryutan Pond
Vibrant koi fish glide through the serene waters, a symbol of Japanese culture and resilience.
Ducks and Turtles
Ryutan Pond
Observe Muscovy ducks and turtles basking in the sun or swimming gracefully in the pond.
Castle Views
Overlooking Shuri Castle
Catch glimpses of the majestic Shuri Castle, especially beautiful when illuminated at night.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Serenity
Wildlife Encounters
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for walking the paths around the pond. You can't walk the entire thing, but there's still plenty to see!
🚫 No Petting or Feeding
Admire the friendly koi and ducks, but resist the urge to pet or feed them. They might bite!
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the pond, wildlife, and Shuri Castle, especially stunning at night.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife without any admission fee. A perfect budget-friendly stop.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚶♀️ Comfortable Footwear
Wear comfy shoes for walking the paths around the pond. You can't walk the entire thing, but there's still plenty to see!
🚫 No Petting or Feeding
Admire the friendly koi and ducks, but resist the urge to pet or feed them. They might bite!
📸 Great Photo Ops
Capture the beauty of the pond, wildlife, and Shuri Castle, especially stunning at night.
💰 It's Free!
Enjoy the natural beauty and wildlife without any admission fee. A perfect budget-friendly stop.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Ryutan Pond to be a peaceful and beautiful spot, especially appreciated for its free admission and the opportunity to see friendly wildlife like koi and ducks. The proximity to Shuri Castle adds to its charm, particularly when the castle is illuminated at night.
"Pond you can walk around that is next to the Shuriji Castle. The ducks aren't scared of humans so you can walk on by them.
You can't walk the entire thing but can walk on the one side of the pond!
*I do not recommend petting, they probably bite.
Free."
Yuuki AsunaYui
"Its a beautiful lake along the way to Shouri Castle park."
Hao Tan
"7/2023
Pond. Shade is cool in summer. Cute koi fish and turtles 🐢!!"
E “Tillandsia Asahikazura” Nack
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Ryutan Pond is conveniently located near Shuri Castle in Okinawa. You can reach it by public transport, including buses that stop near the castle. It's a pleasant walk from the castle grounds.
While there might be parking near Shuri Castle, it's often easier to access Ryutan Pond on foot after visiting the castle. Consider public transport to avoid parking hassles.
The best way to explore Ryutan Pond is by walking along its accessible pathways. Enjoy the scenery and observe the wildlife at your own pace.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, Ryutan Pond is completely free to visit. You can enjoy its natural beauty and the resident wildlife without any admission cost.
Ryutan Pond is generally accessible during daylight hours. It's a public space, so you can visit anytime it's safe to do so, though it's particularly lovely in the morning or evening.
You can walk along one side of the pond, but the entire perimeter is not fully accessible for walking. However, the accessible parts offer beautiful views and encounters.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll likely see beautiful koi fish, as well as ducks and turtles. The animals are quite accustomed to people, making for close observation opportunities.
Absolutely! Ryutan Pond offers picturesque views of the water, the surrounding greenery, and the nearby Shuri Castle, especially when illuminated at night.
Yes, Ryutan Pond offers good shade, making it a pleasant place to visit, especially during the hot summer months.
It's strongly advised not to feed or pet the animals. While they may seem friendly, it's best for their health and your safety to observe them from a distance.
📸 📸 Photography
The best photo spots are along the accessible pathways offering views of the koi, ducks, and the reflection of Shuri Castle. Evening shots with the castle lights are particularly stunning.
Yes, Ryutan Pond provides lovely vantage points for photographing Shuri Castle, especially during sunset or when the castle is illuminated at night.
Early mornings offer soft light and fewer crowds, while evenings provide the magical glow of Shuri Castle's illumination. Both are excellent for photography.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to emphasize to children the importance of not feeding or touching the animals, as this is crucial for their well-being and safety. The shaded pathways make it a comfortable spot for a leisurely stroll, and the proximity to Shuri Castle means you can easily combine it with a visit to a larger attraction. Pack some snacks and enjoy a peaceful break.
💰 Budget Travelers
It's an ideal spot for a relaxing walk or a picnic. Combine your visit with exploring the free-to-access areas around Shuri Castle for a full day of sightseeing that won't break the bank. It's a perfect example of Okinawa's natural beauty being accessible to everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Charm of Ryutan Pond's Wildlife
It's important to remember that while the wildlife is accustomed to humans, it's best to refrain from feeding or petting them. This ensures their health and safety, and prevents any potential for them to become aggressive or overly dependent on human interaction. Enjoy observing their natural behaviors from a respectful distance.
The presence of these animals adds a lively and engaging dimension to the serene atmosphere of Ryutan Pond, making it a delightful spot for nature lovers and casual visitors alike.
Ryutan Pond and Shuri Castle: A Visual Connection
For photographers and those seeking a beautiful evening experience, visiting Ryutan Pond after sunset is highly recommended. The Shuri Castle is illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance that is beautifully mirrored in the pond. This creates a romantic and memorable scene, perfect for capturing unique photos or simply enjoying the view.
While you can't walk the entire perimeter of the pond, the accessible sections provide ample opportunities to appreciate this visual harmony between nature and history. It's a tranquil spot that complements the grandeur of Shuri Castle.
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