Shurijo Castle

After we went to the Peace Park, we headed up to Shurijo Castle. Shurijo Castle was the central structure for the Ryukyu Kingdom for 500 years and was the center for politics, foreign affairs and culture. Shurijo was completely destroyed when the southeast end of the island was bombed during WWII in 1945. During the fighting, Japanese forces were fled the castle, and the soldiers were forced to the southern cliffs where most jumped to their deaths rather than surrender. The castle was restored in 1992.

The castle was beautiful in red and gold. There were many beautiful gates in the park and interesting areas to check out. There were dragons all over the place and I found out that is because they symbolized the king.

On our way out I couldn't resist getting dressed up for a picture!