A Local Stroll Around Shuri – Castles, Soba & Shaved Ice

#cityplaybook If you’re in Okinawa and want a peaceful day with a touch of tradition, Shuri is the perfect place to explore. Once the royal capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom, this area is full of history—but it’s also full of local flavor. I started my walk at Shuri Castle, wandering through the stone paths and soaking in the view from the top. The bright red gates and tiled roofs are so different from other castles in Japan—it feels uniquely Okinawan. For lunch, I stopped by Shuri Soba, a cozy spot known for its rich, homemade Okinawa soba. Thick noodles, tender pork, and a clear, flavorful broth—it hit the spot after walking in the sun. To cool down, I headed to Jun, a local favorite for Okinawan-style shaved ice. Their version of “zenzai” is topped with fluffy ice and sweet red beans—simple, refreshing, and just right. Why I recommend Shuri: ・It’s full of history, but still feels relaxed and local ・You get great food, beautiful views, and a slower pace—all in one walkable area 📍Shuri, Naha City, Okinawa, Japan #shuri #okinawa #localokinawa #shuricastle #okinawasoba #okinawazenzai #hiddenjapan #slowtravel #islandculture #cityguide