Available languages
4 hours
Mobile ticket
Explore Shurijo Castle, sacred sites, and cobbled streets with a local guide, then enjoy Okinawa soba in a Ryukyu-style setting—history, culture, and flavor in one tour!
Public transportation options are available nearby
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Since most Japanese restaurants are not fully equipped to offer vegetarian menus, vegetarian options on our tour are limited.
Please inform us at least one day before the tour if you have any dietary requests or allergies.
We are unable to accommodate gluten-free requests for this tour.
You do not need to pay for the guide's food and drinks
This tour is not recommended for individuals with mobility issues since there are heavy uphills.
Please note that we cannot guarantee allergy-free meals or accommodate dietary restrictions, as the food is prepared in kitchens that are not operated by MagicalTrip.
Okinawa's climate has become more extreme, with summer temperatures reaching up to 40°C (110°F) and winter lows dropping to -5°C (20°F). Please dress appropriately for the weather.
Out of respect for all guests and to ensure the best experience for everyone, the tour will start on time.
If you arrive more than 15 minutes late (10 minutes before the tour start time), you will not be able to join the tour, receive a refund, or reschedule.
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Photos during the tour
Admission Fee -Tamaudun Mausoleum entrance fee included
All parts of the itinerary are guided by a local guide who speaks English.
Admission Fee- Shurijo Castle entrance fee included
Enjoy a satisfying lunch by choosing from a variety of traditional Okinawan dishes on the menu.
Meeting Place: In front of Shuri Textile Museum Suikara
Shureimon Gate
Shureimon Gate – Iconic gate at the entrance of Shurijo Castle Your journey begins with a warm welcome from your friendly local guide in front of a Bingata dyeing studio, just a short walk from Shuri Monorail Station. Nestled in a quiet residential area, this spot sets the tone for a culturally rich experience ahead.
7 reviews
Total reviews and rating from Viator & Tripadvisor
Jacqueline S,
Nov 13, 2025
- Review from Viator
Sara was a wonderful guide and more so an educator. It was interesting to learn the history but also learn how the reconstruction of the palace is being done. I highly recommend this tour.
oliviafF1822MH,
Oct 21, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a lovely time with Sara, even in the rain! We learnt so much from Sara and found her so kind and helpful in understanding what was around us!
Road620537,
Oct 9, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had the pleasure of touring Shuri Castle with our guide, Sara Eiko, and it was one of the highlights of our entire trip to Okinawa. She brought the history to life with incredible knowledge and passion. She combined historical context, cultural insights, and local legends in a way that was both engaging and easy to understand. The pace of the tour was perfect, with plenty of time for questions, photos, and moments to take in the beauty of the site. We left with a much deeper appreciation for the significance of Shuri Castle, especially after learning about its reconstruction and resilience through the years. Thank you again, Sara, you made our trip truly special! -Visiting from New Mexico & Colorado, USA.
JCOrsalio,
Sep 16, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Sara is a very accommodating guide who really focused on the historical aspect of each point of interest. The castle also finally opened to the public again and you can see it under construction. Each individual gate also has its own unique history with some fun facts thrown in. Sara knows the staff very well and brought them in to talk which was very interesting. There is a drink included but you should definitely bring more water than you think, it gets hot.






Meander38483728747,
Sep 7, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Very thoughtful learning experience. I wish to visit Shurijo castle again when it is finished completion with repairs.
balineal,
Aug 14, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
Sara provided a good insight into Japanese culture and was an excellent guide with her perspective from a lineage both western and eastern. I would suggest waiting to go on this particular tour until the Shuri Castle renovations are completed in 2026 after a devastating fire however as it is currently hidden from sight under scaffolding and so the highlight is missing.
O8558TKjesusb,
Aug 5, 2025
- Review from Tripadvisor
We had a great time with Sara and we learned a lot! The tour covered spots of great importance in the castle area that we otherwise would’ve missed. Do wear steady shoes as the last part of the tour is through a somewhat steep old stone road. Most of the stones are uneven so avoid loose sandals or shoes that don’t have grip. I’d recommend hiking shoes or snug sport shoes with grip.
Operated by MagicalTrip Inc.