A video taken on Oct. 25 in Naha shows the reconstructed exterior of Shuri-jo Castle’s main hall after a fire that destroyed it in 2019. (Masaru Komiyaji and Minako Yoshimoto)

Photo/Illutration Reconstruction of the Seiden main hall at Shuri-jo Castle is under way in Naha, with completion scheduled for autumn 2026. (Masaru Komiyaji)

NAHA—The vivid red of Shuri-jo Castle's main hall here gleams under the sun once more, nearly free of the temporary roof that shielded it during the long reconstruction process.

New drone footage taken six years after a fire destroyed the castle provided a closer look at ornate roofing details that include traditional motifs of lions and dragons.

As the project moves toward its scheduled completion in autumn next year, artisans will begin applying lacquer and decorative coloring to the interior walls and pillars.

For now, visitors can glimpse the reborn castle through acrylic panels set into the temporary fencing surrounding the site.

The fire, which broke out in the early hours of Oct. 31, 2019, destroyed much of the castle complex, including its iconic Seiden main hall. While an electrical fault is suspected, the exact cause of the fire remains undetermined.

Since then, restoration efforts have been ongoing at the site that is part of the Okinawa Commemorative National Government Park.

To prevent future tragedies, the reconstruction is incorporating modern fire safety systems. Sprinklers will be installed throughout the main hall, as will surveillance cameras that can record at night. 

A former royal palace of the Ryukyu Kingdom, the castle complex has suffered five major fires since its original construction, which is believed to date to the 15th century.

The older foundational structure of the castle is part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with similar castle remains across Okinawa Prefecture.

(This article was written by Masaru Komiyaji and Minako Yoshimoto.)

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