Shureimon Gate, Naha
As the second of Shuri Castle's main gates, Shureimon Gate is steeped in history, dating back to its construction in the 16th century. Reflecting a blend of Chinese architectural influence and indigenous religious traditions, the gate's design embodies a harmonious fusion of cultural elements.
One of the most striking features of Shureimon Gate is the four Chinese characters adorning its fa莽ade: Shu, rei, no, and kuni, meaning 'Land of Propriety.' While these characters were added to the gate long after its original construction, they serve as a poignant reminder of the gate's cultural significance and historical legacy. The gate's structure, reminiscent of traditional Chinese three-bay turret gates, is crowned by a distinctive red-tiled hip roof, evoking a sense of grandeur and majesty.
Despite enduring destruction during the ravages of the Second World War, Shureimon Gate rose from the ashes, thanks to local campaigns and community support in the 1950s and 60s. It stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Okinawan people to preserve their cultural heritage in the face of adversity. In fact, Shureimon Gate was the first part of Shuri Castle to be reconstructed, paving the way for subsequent efforts to restore this iconic landmark to its former glory.
The significance of Shureimon Gate extends beyond its architectural beauty and historical importance. Its image graced the 2000 yen note issued in 2000 to commemorate the 26th G8 summit held in Okinawa, further cementing its status as a symbol of Okinawa's cultural identity and international significance.
One of the most striking features of Shureimon Gate is the four Chinese characters adorning its fa莽ade: Shu, rei, no, and kuni, meaning 'Land of Propriety.' While these characters were added to the gate long after its original construction, they serve as a poignant reminder of the gate's cultural significance and historical legacy. The gate's structure, reminiscent of traditional Chinese three-bay turret gates, is crowned by a distinctive red-tiled hip roof, evoking a sense of grandeur and majesty.
Despite enduring destruction during the ravages of the Second World War, Shureimon Gate rose from the ashes, thanks to local campaigns and community support in the 1950s and 60s. It stands as a testament to the resilience and determination of the Okinawan people to preserve their cultural heritage in the face of adversity. In fact, Shureimon Gate was the first part of Shuri Castle to be reconstructed, paving the way for subsequent efforts to restore this iconic landmark to its former glory.
The significance of Shureimon Gate extends beyond its architectural beauty and historical importance. Its image graced the 2000 yen note issued in 2000 to commemorate the 26th G8 summit held in Okinawa, further cementing its status as a symbol of Okinawa's cultural identity and international significance.
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Shureimon Gate on Map
Sight Name: Shureimon Gate
Sight Location: Naha, Japan (See walking tours in Naha)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Naha, Japan (See walking tours in Naha)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Naha, Japan
Create Your Own Walk in Naha
Creating your own self-guided walk in Naha is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Shuri District Walking Tour
Once an independent city and the esteemed royal capital of the Ry奴ky奴 Kingdom, Shuri has been a district in the city of Naha since 1954. Originally established as a castle town surrounding the royal palace, Shuri's status as the capital ceased with the dissolution of the kingdom and its incorporation into Japan as part of Okinawa prefecture. Renowned for its historical significance, today... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.8 Km or 2.4 Miles
Naha Introduction Walking Tour
Naha, the dynamic capital of Okinawa, Japan, although small a city as such, does contain a plethora of historic attractions. Recognizing it as the birthplace of Okinawa karate also adds greatly to the city's appeal among sports enthusiasts.
Naha derives its name from the word "Naba," which references a large stone shaped like a mushroom that once graced the city but over time... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles
Naha derives its name from the word "Naba," which references a large stone shaped like a mushroom that once graced the city but over time... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.7 Km or 2.3 Miles