Shurijo Castle

【Star Voyager】🛳️ Grand Hong Kong maiden voyage from June 27 to August 31, 2025 The classic Star Cruises brand returns to its Hong Kong homeport to explore Taiwan and Japan 【Star Voyager】 Will operate from Hong Kong as its homeport to multiple popular destinations from June 27 to August 31, 2025. April 24, 2025 (Hong Kong) — Star Cruises proudly announces that 【Star Voyager】 will be based in Hong Kong from June 27 to August 31, 2025. This marks the upgraded Star Cruises’ return to one of its most iconic homeports, continuing its 30-year glorious legacy with a fresh new look. The arrival of 【Star Voyager】 will inject strong momentum into Hong Kong and regional cruise tourism, offering travelers a rich variety of itineraries and demonstrating Star Cruises’ long-term commitment to the Asian cruise market. During its operation from the Hong Kong homeport, 【Star Voyager】 will offer 2- to 5-night in-depth itineraries covering popular destinations such as Taipei (Keelung), Kaohsiung, Penghu, and Japan’s Okinawa Naha and Ishigaki Island. The highly popular "2-night weekend open sea cruise" will regularly depart every Friday, providing the perfect choice for travelers seeking a short luxury sea experience. Mr. Wu Mingfa, President of Star Cruises Dream, said: "Hong Kong holds a special place in Star Cruises’ development history. Returning to Hong Kong as a homeport is both a continuation of our brand spirit and a fulfillment of our commitment to the Asian market. 【Star Voyager】 will bring a refined and extraordinary cruise experience to local travelers and the emerging 'fly-rail-cruise' customer segment with a brand-new look." 🗓️ Hong Kong Departure Itineraries 📍 Kaohsiung and Penghu Routes i. 3-night Hong Kong to Kaohsiung and Penghu route (Sunday departures): June 29, July 13, August 10, 2025 ii. 2-night Hong Kong to Kaohsiung route (Wednesday departures): July 2, 16; August 13, 2025 During the summer cruise season, 【Star Voyager】 will offer exciting routes from Hong Kong to Kaohsiung and Penghu. Kaohsiung, as the southern maritime hub, features modern art districts, traditional temples, and lively night markets; Penghu captivates with clear waters, quaint villages, and a relaxed island atmosphere, making it a perfect blend of cultural exploration and island charm. 📍 Japan Routes i. 5-night Hong Kong to Ishigaki Island and Naha route (Sunday departures): July 6, August 3, 2025 ii. 5-night Hong Kong to Naha and Ishigaki Island route (Sunday departures): July 20, August 17, 2025 【Star Voyager】 will also operate routes from Hong Kong to Okinawa, Japan, calling at the popular destinations of Ishigaki Island and Naha. Ishigaki Island is renowned for its turquoise seas, white sands, and lush landscapes, a paradise for nature lovers; Naha, the capital of Okinawa, offers Ryukyu traditional culture, bustling shopping streets, and historical landmarks like Shuri Castle, providing a unique cultural experience. 📍 Taiwan-Japan Combined Routes i. 5-night special route from Hong Kong to Ishigaki Island, Keelung, and Penghu: July 27 and August 24, 2025 (Sunday departures) This carefully designed 5-night itinerary highlights the best of Taiwan and Japan, allowing you to deeply explore the stunning sights of Ishigaki Island, Keelung, and Penghu. Departing exclusively on July 27 and August 24, 2025, this special voyage lets you enjoy three dream destinations in one unforgettable sea holiday. 📍 Address: 2-night weekend open sea cruise (Friday departures: June 27; July 4, 11, 18, 25; August 29) 【Star Voyager】 itself is a fantastic destination! Guests can fully enjoy top-notch facilities at sea, from inside cabins and ocean-view rooms to "Palace Suites" equipped with private amenities and 24-hour European butler service. 🏖️ Onboard facilities include a water park, climbing wall, zipline, lawn bowling, and more, complemented by exciting live entertainment and themed events, perfect for families, couples, or anyone who loves a sea vacation. 💞 About Star Cruises With over 30 years of glorious history, Star Cruises returns in a brand-new style, offering a more stylish and vibrant way to create a tasteful sea holiday experience for a new generation of travelers. 🌟 High-quality yet affordable sea holiday options 🌟 Rich entertainment, world-class dining, and age-specific activities 🌟 Moderate cruise size (about 2,000 guests), flexible and comfortable The Star Cruises fleet includes 【Star Explorer】 and 【Star Voyager】. 【Star Explorer】 launched on March 7, 2025, from Singapore and will begin an exclusive eight-month season in Keelung. Featuring unique routes connecting the region’s most charming coastlines and expanding to special ports in Japan and Korea, travelers can enjoy spring cherry blossoms, summer blue seas, and autumn foliage, appreciating Asia’s beauty through the seasons. 【Star Voyager】 launched on March 26, 2025, operating between diverse ports including Singapore, Jakarta, Malacca, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City, with plans to expand to more popular cities. #Taiwan #Japan #Travel #TravelInspiration

📅 DAY 1: Naha – Culture + City Stroll + Local Market Morning – Arrival at Naha Airport • Pick up rental car / Take monorail into the city • Leave luggage at the hotel 👉 Attractions 1) Shuri Castle • UNESCO World Heritage Site • Explore Ryukyu-style stone walls and take beautiful photos ⏱ Duration: 1–1.5 hours 2) Kokusai-dori Street • Main shopping street in Okinawa • Complete souvenirs like Karami Mitsu, Beni Imo purple sweet potato snacks • Plenty of Okinawan izakaya-style restaurants 3) Makishi Public Market • Local food market • Recommended: Okinawan pork belly, sashimi, tiger prawns, Goya soup 🍽 Recommended Food • Okinawa Soba • Taco Rice • Blue Seal Ice Cream 🏨 Recommended Accommodation in Naha • Almont Hotel Naha Omoromachi • Daiwa Roynet Naha • Hotel Lantana Naha ⸻ 📅 DAY 2: Scenic Photography – Ocean Expo Park – Aquarium Northern Trip (Onna – Motobu) 1) Cape Manzamo • Elephant trunk-shaped rocky cliff • Stunning view of Okinawa’s clear blue sea ⏱ Duration: 30–45 minutes 2) Ryukyu Village or Murasaki Mura • Learn about traditional Okinawan culture • Participate in craft-making activities 3) Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium ⭐️ Highlight! • Famous Kuroshio Tank with whale sharks • Spacious area for a leisurely walk ⏱ Duration: 2–3 hours 4) Emerald Beach • Clear water beach, walkable from the aquarium 5) American Village (Chatan) – Evening • Shopping and American-style photo spots • Many seaside cafes • Gorgeous sunset views 🌅 🏨 Recommended Stay in Chatan / Onna (if not returning to Naha) • Vessel Hotel Campana Okinawa • Hilton Okinawa Chatan Resort ⸻ 📅 DAY 3: Beach Photography – Seaside Cafes – Return to Airport 1) Trendy Seaside Cafes (Choose one) • Café Makapu • Seaside Café Hanon • FUKUGI CAFÉ Perfect for photos, enjoying baked goods, and sea views 2) Senaga Island / Umikaji Terrace • White Greek-style cafes • Plenty of photo spots • Close to the airport, only a 10-minute drive 3) Ashibinaa Outlet • Last-minute shopping • Great deals on famous brands like Coach, Adidas, Bape → Return rental car / Check-in for flight back to Thailand

🗺️【Itinerary】 Day 1: Southeast Botanical Gardens - Okinawa City Hall Observation Deck - Okinawa Zoo & Museum Day 2: Ryukyu Village - Blue Cave - Manzamo Day 3: Orca Underwater Sightseeing Boat - Naminoue Shrine - Kokusai Street - Naha Public Market - Shurijo Castle 📍【Must-Visit Attractions】 1. Southeast Botanical Gardens 2. Okinawa City Hall Observation Deck 3. Okinawa Zoo & Museum 4. Ryukyu Village 5. Blue Cave 6. Manzamo 7. Orca Underwater Sightseeing Boat 8. Naminoue Shrine 9. Kokusai Street 10. Naha Public Market 11. Shurijo Castle 🥘【Must-Try Foods】 🏠【Recommended Accommodations】 📷【Photo-Worthy Spots】 📣【Tips】

After being devastated by a fire, Shuri Castle is still under reconstruction. The once vibrant vermilion structures have been replaced by construction fences and restoration frameworks, highlighting its significance to Okinawan culture even more. Following the visitor route, you can see exhibits and explanations of the restoration process, learning how traditional architectural techniques are being meticulously revived. Although the main hall is not yet complete, standing atop the castle ruins and overlooking Naha City still allows you to feel the grandeur and historical depth of this iconic site.

Departing from Taipei, the moment you land in Naha The air, the pace, and your mood all slow down ✈️ Day 1 Arrival 🛬 Take the shuttle to the car rental, pick up the car, check in, and visit Sports Depo. Spend the evening amidst the lights and sounds of Kokusai Street. Finally, return to the hotel for a good night's rest 🌙 Day 2 Drive across the Kouri Bridge. The unreal blue sea pairs perfectly with a bowl of shrimp rice 🦐. The aroma of brown sugar coffee and a custom-made perfume crafted by your own hands. In the afternoon, dive into history, and let the sunset take over your evening. Day 3 After checking out, take a leisurely walk to Naminoue Shrine. Senaga Island is perfect for doing nothing but gazing at the sky 🌅. Capture the final scenery in your mind. Return the car, board the plane, and quietly think to yourself— I’ll come back again next time. 📌 Tips ✔️ A suitcase within 24 inches is just right. ✔️ Don’t forget to bring a jacket (it’s cooler in the mornings and evenings). ✔️ Remember your Japanese yen, passport, Japanese translation of your driver’s license, and Taiwanese driver’s license. Okinawa doesn’t require a packed itinerary. Just remember to live well 🌊

📍Itinerary Overview Explore Okinawa over 5 days, discovering new scenic spots every day for the ultimate vacation vibe! Check out my curated route below. 🚩Travel Route Capturing moments as I go: Starting from Naha, I made a big loop around Okinawa's main island, covering beaches, historical sites, and shopping areas! Day 1: Kokusai Street - Shurijo Castle Day 2: Churaumi Aquarium - Bise Fukugi Tree Road Day 3: Kouri Island - Seaside Cafe Day 4: Onna Village - Blue Cave Day 5: American Village - Outlet Shopping Spree 🏖️Must-Visit Spots Top photo-worthy locations: - Kouri Bridge: Stunning ocean views, perfect for Instagram shots! - Churaumi Aquarium: Giant whale sharks for a soothing experience! - American Village Ferris Wheel: A must for nighttime selfies! 🚇Transportation Car rental is highly recommended for convenience and flexibility! Okinawa isn’t too big, so you can easily get around and save time 💯 Alternatively, take the monorail to popular urban areas like Kokusai Street and Shurijo Castle. 📷Photo Spots Beach vibes! A man strolling by the shore, with crystal-clear waters and a tiny island in the distance—perfect for unbeatable shots. Also, don’t miss the Ferris wheel and unique modern architecture for chill photo opportunities! 🍜Local Delicacies Must-try dishes include Okinawa Soba (Soki Soba), sea grapes, and Okinawan bitter melon—refreshing and delicious! The burgers and cafe desserts in American Village are also top-notch, perfect for both taste and Instagram! 🏠Accommodation Recommendations Plenty of options in Naha city center: cozy guesthouses, unique inns, and seaside resorts—equally great for photos and relaxation! Walking distance to Kokusai Street for easy shopping and hotel access. 💡Tips: Don’t forget sunscreen—the sun is intense! Be cautious when playing in the water and check the weather forecast. Some attractions require online reservations in advance, so don’t miss out! Carry cash, as some small shops don’t accept credit cards. Okinawa truly feels like paradise—not only beautiful but also packed with hidden culinary gems waiting to be discovered! Can’t wait to visit again next time! 🌴🌊📸

Enjoy a free Ryukyu dance performance and experience the vibrant culture of Okinawa. This captivating event showcases traditional dance forms from the Ryukyu Islands, including the colorful "Shichiku Dance" costumes and the intricate "Kasekake" choreography. The performances are held three times daily on Wednesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, Sundays, and public holidays at the Shichanu-Una, Keizuza, and Yomotsuza venues. Visitors can immerse themselves in Okinawa's rich cultural heritage while admiring the beauty and grace of these traditional dances. Watching this performance offers a unique opportunity to witness the artistry and cultural significance of Ryukyu dance, providing an enjoyable experience for both locals and tourists. Don’t miss the chance to participate in this enchanting Okinawan cultural celebration!

Transportation Flights: There are direct and connecting flights from Shanghai to Okinawa. For direct flights, you can choose Juneyao Airlines BR186, departing from Pudong International Airport Terminal 1, with a flight time of about 2 hours and 25 minutes; China Eastern Airlines MU2085 also offers direct flights from Pudong International Airport Terminal 1, with a similar flight time of about 2 hours and 25 minutes. For connecting flights, you can choose flights via Taipei, such as China Airlines BR711 connecting to BR186, with relatively cheaper economy class prices. Island Transportation: Transportation on Okinawa Island mainly relies on trams and buses, and taxis are also an option. To reach remote islands like Zamami Island, you need to take a ferry. There are fast and slow ferries; the fast ferry takes about 50 minutes one way, while the slow ferry takes about 2 hours one way. Accommodation Naha City: Recommended is the Naha Tokyu Bizfort Hotel, which is close to the bus terminal and Asahibashi monorail station, about a 5-minute walk, and not far from Kokusai Street, about a 10-minute walk. The price is around 400 RMB per night, offering great value for money. Seaside Resort Style: If you want to enjoy a seaside resort atmosphere, you can choose hotels in the central or northern areas, such as the Okinawa InterContinental Hotel & Resort under the InterContinental Hotels Group, close to attractions like Manza Beach, convenient for visiting the aquarium and enjoying beautiful sea views. Remote Island Accommodation: Taking Zamami Island as an example, Cat's Inn Kerama is a good choice. The first floor has a restaurant, the second floor has guest rooms, a kitchen, and a large terrace. Rooms have private bathrooms, and each room has a door leading directly to the terrace, where you can enjoy the sea breeze, drink, and chat in the evening. Attractions and Activities Kokusai Street: Okinawa’s bustling commercial street, featuring various specialty shops, drugstores, and restaurants. You can buy Okinawa’s unique souvenirs such as Ryukyu glassware and Shisa statues, and also taste delicacies like snow salt ice cream and purple sweet potato egg tarts. Okinawa Churaumi Aquarium: One of the largest aquariums in the world, with huge tanks where you can see whale sharks, manta rays, and various marine creatures, very spectacular. Manza Beach: A famous Okinawa attraction, it is a cliff where you can enjoy vast sea views and unique geological formations, experiencing the wonders of nature. Zamami Island: A remote island perfect for diving and relaxing, with clear waters where you can see sea turtles and other marine life. At Aharen Beach, you can also enjoy water activities like SUP. Shuri Castle: Once the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom, although it has experienced fires, you can still feel the history and cultural heritage of the Ryukyu dynasty. New Year Events Sibamata Winter Light Show: Held from mid-December 2025 to mid-January 2026, the New Year's Eve event lasts until 11:30 PM, featuring music and fireworks for the holiday countdown, with hundreds of thousands of LED lights, amusement facilities, and food stalls on site. Ryukyu Lantern Festival: Held at Ryukyu Village in Yomitan Village, Okinawa Prefecture, from early December 2025 to the end of March 2026. During this period, you can enjoy pebble alleys decorated with lanterns, poetry, riddles, and entertainment such as taiko drum performances and hula dancing. Food Recommendations Okinawa Ramen: Different from ramen in other parts of Japan, Okinawa ramen has thicker noodles, usually with pork bone broth, and toppings like char siu, bamboo shoots, and eggs. Seafood Cuisine: Surrounded by the sea, Okinawa has abundant seafood resources, where you can enjoy fresh sashimi, grilled seafood, seafood bowls, and more. Purple Sweet Potato Products: Okinawa’s purple sweet potatoes are famous, with various products like purple sweet potato egg tarts, purple sweet potato ice cream, and purple sweet potato cakes, all sweet and delicious.

Shurijo Castle is a historic castle located in Naha City, Okinawa, Japan. As the political, economic, and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it holds significant importance in Okinawan history. The architectural style of Shurijo Castle blends elements of Chinese, Japanese, and Ryukyu cultures, showcasing a unique cultural fusion. It is an excellent place to learn about Ryukyu history and culture. **History of Shurijo Castle** Shurijo Castle was first built in the 14th century and has undergone multiple reconstructions and expansions. The current version of Shurijo Castle was rebuilt in 1992. Despite being severely damaged in past wars, Shurijo Castle retains its historical appearance and was listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000. **Architectural Features** 1. **Main Hall**: The Main Hall is the core of Shurijo Castle, where the Ryukyu kings once conducted official business and held important ceremonies. The Main Hall's architectural style is unique, with a red exterior, curved roof design, and intricately carved dragon pillars that are particularly striking. 2. **Shureimon Gate**: This gate symbolizes etiquette and respect and is one of the entrances to Shurijo Castle. The gate is inscribed with the words "Land of Propriety," representing the friendliness and courtesy of the Ryukyu people. 3. **Zuisenmon Gate**: Located within Shurijo Castle, Zuisenmon Gate features Chinese-style architecture, with tiles and carvings that reflect Chinese cultural influence. 4. **Zuisen Pond**: This beautiful pond, surrounded by greenery and flowers, was once a place of relaxation for the Ryukyu kings and is now a popular spot for visitors to unwind. **Cultural Activities** Various cultural activities are held within Shurijo Castle, including traditional dance performances, handicraft displays, and tea ceremony experiences, allowing visitors to deeply appreciate the rich essence of Ryukyu culture. **Travel Tips** - **Opening Hours**: It is recommended to check local information to confirm the opening hours and visiting arrangements of Shurijo Castle. - **Ticket Information**: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of Shurijo Castle. It is advisable to book in advance to avoid long queues. - **Transportation**: You can take public transportation within Naha City or rent a bicycle for convenient and quick access. **Photography Tips** - Utilize the soft light of early morning and dusk to capture the red Main Hall of Shurijo Castle for the best effect. - Take photos in front of Shureimon Gate and Zuisenmon Gate to capture the historical architectural details. Shurijo Castle is not only a historical monument but also a symbol of Ryukyu culture, showcasing the unique charm of Okinawa. If you plan to visit Okinawa, Shurijo Castle is a must-see attraction that allows you to explore history while experiencing the awe and beauty of ancient culture.

#japantrip During my vacations in Naha, I had the delightful opportunity to explore the famous Shuri Castle S Perched on a hill in the city center, this iconic landmark offers stunning panoramic views of the area. The entrance fee was reasonable, reflecting the historical and cultural significance of the castle. Stepping through the gates felt like stepping back in time to the Ryukyu Kingdom era. The architecture of Shuri Castle is truly impressive, featuring vivid red walls, intricate wooden carvings, and grand roofs. As I wandered through the castle grounds, I was captivated by the Main Hall, Seiden, and other ancient buildings. The serene gardens and peaceful ponds added to the magical ambiance, creating a serene escape from the bustle of the city below. After exploring the castle, I also took time to visit nearby points of interest like the Shuri Kinjo-cho Stone-paved Road and Shikina-en Garden. These sites provided further insight into Okinawa's rich cultural heritage. My visit to Shuri Castle was a truly unforgettable experience that deepened my understanding and admiration for Okinawa's history and traditions. This enchanting castle is a definite must-see for anyone visiting Naha.

#cityplaybook #localguides Okinawa, Japan’s southernmost prefecture, is a stunning island chain known for its crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, and a culture distinctly different from mainland Japan. This subtropical paradise blends natural beauty with a rich historical tapestry, offering travelers an experience that’s both relaxing and enriching. Surrounded by the turquoise waters of the East China Sea, Okinawa is a haven for beach lovers and marine enthusiasts. The islands are famous for diving and snorkeling, especially around the coral reefs of the Kerama Islands and the colorful fish of the Blue Cave in Cape Maeda. Okinawa’s beaches—like Emerald Beach, Zanpa, and Manza—are perfect for sunbathing or enjoying water sports. But Okinawa is more than just beaches. It was once the independent Ryukyu Kingdom, and its heritage still echoes in its unique music, dance, and cuisine. Shurijo Castle in Naha, though partially reconstructed, stands as a testament to the island's regal past. You can explore traditional Ryukyuan villages like Ryukyu Mura or attend Eisa dance festivals to immerse yourself in the island’s identity. The food scene in Okinawa is also a highlight, featuring dishes like Okinawa soba, goya champuru (stir-fried bitter melon), and the beloved purple sweet potato. The laid-back lifestyle, friendly locals, and slower pace make Okinawa feel like a world apart from Japan’s bustling cities. Whether you're drawn by adventure, cultural discovery, or pure relaxation, Okinawa delivers an unforgettable island escape. #OkinawaJapan #IslandParadise #RyukyuCulture #JapanBeaches #OkinawaSoba #SnorkelingJapan #ShurijoCastle #BlueCaveOkinawa #KeramaIslands #TropicalJapan

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