In 2026, Shuri Castle is set to be rebuilt after the 2019 fire. (Image via Japan Guide)

Japan to completely reconstruct Shuri Castle by 2026

The Japanese government set the target to restore the burnt Shuri Castle in Okinawa by 2026 with the full-fledged reconstruction that will begin in 2022.

In addition, the Japanese government also aims to enhance the fire-prevention measures by installing measures unable in the previous Shuri Castle such as sprinklers and automatic fire-detector alarms, besides the conventional fire extinguishers. Reformation in the structural system will also be implemented so that the fire can be extinguished before worsening.

Previously on 31 October 2019, Shuri Castle, the symbol of Okinawa and as a World Heritage site by UNESCO, was destroyed in a fire. The blaze, devastating six wooden buildings overlooking the capital of Okinawa, Naha, was allegedly due to an electrical fault.

Chief Cabinet Secretary, Yoshihide Suga, acknowledged Shuri Castle as an important building symbolizing the pride of the Okinawan. Therefore, the Japanese government pledged to restore the building “with responsibility”.

On 10 February, a small-scale construction began by removing debris. The government will include the design in fiscal 2020 through next March.

Governor of Okinawa, Denny Tamaki, delighted by the action, referring to it as a “step forward”. The design of the reconstruction will symbolize all Okinawan residents. Tamaki also said that Okinawa will cooperate with the Japanese government to promote tourism and show the progress of the reconstruction.

Source: https://bit.ly/3dyO5Em