Shureimon Gate
An iconic 16th-century gate, a symbol of Ryukyu culture and featured on Japan's 2,000 yen banknote.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere
Shureimon Gate
Best Time
Fewer crowds, serene atmosphere

Highlights
Must-see attractions
An iconic 16th-century gate, a symbol of Ryukyu culture and featured on Japan's 2,000 yen banknote.
"A beautiful gate representing Shuri Castle which is a World Heritage site and was built around 1527 to 1555."
📸 Capture the iconic gate
The Shureimon Gate is a must-photograph spot, especially with the Japanese 2000 yen banknote.
♿ Wheelchair accessible
The area around Shureimon Gate is easily accessible for wheelchair users.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Shureimon Gate
Entrance to Shuri Castle Park
An iconic, ornate gate symbolizing Ryukyu culture, featured on Japan's 2,000 yen banknote.

Shuri Castle Park Reconstruction
Shuri Castle Park
Witness skilled artisans at work through viewing windows, offering a unique glimpse into traditional craftsmanship.

Sonohyan-utaki Ishimon
Near Shureimon Gate
A sacred stone gate, a UNESCO World Heritage site, offering a glimpse into ancient Okinawan spiritual practices.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit for Tranquility
Understanding the Gate's Significance
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Capture the iconic gate
The Shureimon Gate is a must-photograph spot, especially with the Japanese 2000 yen banknote.
♿ Wheelchair accessible
The area around Shureimon Gate is easily accessible for wheelchair users.
⏳ Reconstruction viewing
See artisans at work on Shuri Castle reconstruction through viewing windows.
🚶♀️ Explore surroundings
The areas around the gate are beautiful and worth exploring, even with castle construction.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Capture the iconic gate
The Shureimon Gate is a must-photograph spot, especially with the Japanese 2000 yen banknote.
♿ Wheelchair accessible
The area around Shureimon Gate is easily accessible for wheelchair users.
⏳ Reconstruction viewing
See artisans at work on Shuri Castle reconstruction through viewing windows.
🚶♀️ Explore surroundings
The areas around the gate are beautiful and worth exploring, even with castle construction.
☕ Nearby cafes
Enjoy lunch at cafes like Cafe Hidamari, a short walk from the gate.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find Shureimon Gate to be a beautiful and historically significant landmark, even with Shuri Castle undergoing reconstruction. The gate's iconic status and its presence on the 2,000 yen banknote are frequently highlighted. While the reconstruction is noted, the surrounding areas and the opportunity to observe restoration work are seen as valuable additions to the experience.
"Really beautiful place in the Shuri Castle area, would strong recommend even just for seing this door. The renovation is really great. Very calm in the morning. Easy access for wheelchair users.
As the castle is under renovation, I would recommend see this instead. It makes the trip towards the castle worth, as the surroundings are equally as beautiful 🤩
I was lucky enough to spot two Lockheed Martin F-35 Lightning II near it.
Not far enough behind it you can see the memorial stones for the Sonohyan-utaki Ishimon (園比屋武御嶽石門)"
Ulysse Levallois
"It is a beautiful gate representing Shuri Castle which is a World Heritage site and was built around 1527 to 1555. It was destroyed during the Pacific war but restored later in 1958.
Also, SHUREIMON was a well-known symbol of Ryukyu culture and is often featured as an iconic structure in images showasing Shuri Castle."
Avegail Toma
"Siren atmosphere full of historic and beautiful scenery. A place to learn about rich okinawan culture."
Don Sparo
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Shureimon Gate is located at the entrance to Shuri Castle Park in Naha, Okinawa. You can reach it via public transportation, including the Yui Rail monorail to Shuri Station, followed by a short walk. Taxis are also readily available.
Yes, Shureimon Gate is the prominent main entrance to Shuri Castle Park and is hard to miss. It's a well-known landmark in Okinawa.
The park grounds are best explored on foot. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended. The area around Shureimon Gate is also easily navigable.
Yes, there are parking facilities available at Shuri Castle Park. However, it's advisable to check the park's official website for current parking fees and availability, especially during peak seasons.
Ride-sharing services are generally available in Naha, and you can likely use them to get to Shuri Castle Park. Confirm with your preferred service for availability and drop-off points.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Shureimon Gate itself is typically visible from the outside without an entrance fee. However, access to the Shuri Castle Park grounds and any ongoing reconstruction viewing areas may require a ticket. It's best to check the official Shuri Castle Park website for the most current information on admission.
The opening hours for Shuri Castle Park can vary, and it's crucial to check the official website for the most up-to-date information, especially considering the ongoing reconstruction. The gate is often visible even when the park has limited access.
Shuri Castle Park is undergoing reconstruction following a fire. While some areas may be closed, visitors can often still access parts of the park, including viewing areas where the reconstruction work is visible.
Information on discounts or passes is best obtained from the official Shuri Castle Park website. They may offer combined tickets or special rates depending on the season or ongoing events.
While the park's official hours might end in the evening, the exterior of Shureimon Gate is often visible from the surrounding area. However, for the best experience and to appreciate its details, visiting during daylight hours is recommended.
📸 📸 Photography
The most iconic photo spot is directly in front of the gate, capturing its grandeur. For a unique shot, try to include the Japanese 2,000 yen banknote featuring the gate.
Early morning light also offers beautiful photographic opportunities.Photography is generally allowed in most public areas of Shuri Castle Park, including Shureimon Gate. However, always be mindful of any posted signs or specific restrictions, especially in areas related to ongoing reconstruction.
Photography of the reconstruction work is usually permitted from designated viewing areas. This offers a unique perspective on the restoration process.
Early mornings are ideal for photography at Shureimon Gate to avoid crowds and capture soft, natural light.
Late afternoon can also offer pleasant lighting conditions.Drone usage is typically restricted in historical sites and parks to ensure safety and preserve the atmosphere. It's highly recommended to check the official Shuri Castle Park regulations regarding drone photography before your visit.
🎫 🏛️ History & Culture
Shureimon Gate, built in the 16th century and rebuilt after WWII, is a symbol of the Ryukyu Kingdom's prosperity and its cultural exchange with China. Its name, 'Shurei,' signifies a nation that upholds etiquette and manners.
The gate is featured on the Japanese 2,000 yen banknote to represent Okinawa's unique cultural heritage and its historical significance as a gateway to the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The inscription on the horizontal frame of Shureimon Gate reads 'Shurei' (守禮), meaning 'observing manners' or 'land of courtesy,' reflecting the kingdom's diplomatic principles.
Shuri Castle, including Shureimon Gate, was largely destroyed by a fire in 2019. Reconstruction efforts are underway, and the gate has been meticulously restored.
Shureimon Gate is part of Shuri Castle Park, which has historical ties to Okinawan Karate. The gate itself represents the entrance to a place of historical and cultural importance, including martial arts heritage.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are several dining options near Shureimon Gate. Cafe Hidamari, a short walk away, offers homemade lunches and is popular for its 'Shuri Yakuzen Lunch.'
You can find a variety of Okinawan cuisine, including traditional lunches, local sweets, and cafes. Okashigoten Onna store, near the gate, offers Okinawan sweets and souvenirs.
Some cafes near Shureimon Gate offer garden views, providing a pleasant dining experience. Cafe Hidamari is noted for its garden outlook.
Okashigoten Onna store is a recommended spot for Okinawan sweets and souvenirs, with Shuri Castle motifs incorporated into its design.
Prices can vary, but expect typical cafe and restaurant prices for Okinawa. A homemade lunch at a place like Cafe Hidamari might range from ¥1,000 to ¥2,000.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider bringing snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park might be limited or busy. The surrounding grounds offer space for children to move around, and the historical context can be simplified for younger visitors by focusing on stories of kings, queens, and traditional Okinawan life. The accessibility for wheelchairs also means strollers can generally navigate the main paths easily.
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & History Buffs
Take your time to explore the surrounding historical sites like the Sonohyan-utaki Ishimon and read any available information panels. Engaging with the reconstruction viewing areas can offer a unique perspective on traditional craftsmanship. Consider visiting early in the morning to enjoy the tranquility and fully immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere without distractions.
📸 Photographers & Culture Enthusiasts
Beyond the gate, the surrounding park, even during reconstruction, offers picturesque views and cultural insights. The chance to photograph the reconstruction process itself provides a rare and compelling narrative. Look for opportunities to capture the blend of ancient architecture, natural beauty, and the ongoing efforts to preserve Okinawa's heritage.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Enduring Symbolism of Shureimon Gate
Despite being destroyed during World War II and later rebuilt in 1958, Shureimon Gate has retained its status as an iconic representation of Okinawa. Its image is so widely recognized that it graces Japan's 2,000 yen banknote, a rare honor that underscores its national significance. This enduring presence in Japanese currency highlights the gate's importance not just to Okinawa, but to the broader cultural narrative of Japan.
Today, even amidst the ongoing reconstruction of Shuri Castle Park following the 2019 fire, Shureimon Gate stands as a beacon of resilience and cultural pride. Visitors can still admire its beauty and contemplate its historical weight, understanding that it represents a legacy of peace, cultural exchange, and a unique Okinawan spirit.
Experiencing Shuri Castle Park During Reconstruction
Beyond the reconstruction, the surrounding areas of Shuri Castle Park are still beautiful and hold historical significance. Visitors can explore sites like the Sonohyan-utaki Ishimon, a sacred stone gate that offers a glimpse into ancient Okinawan spiritual practices. The grounds themselves are serene and offer opportunities for quiet reflection on Okinawa's past.
To make the most of your visit during this period, it's advisable to check the official Shuri Castle Park website for the latest information on access, viewing areas, and any temporary exhibits. Early morning visits are recommended to avoid crowds and enjoy a more peaceful exploration of the accessible parts of the park.
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