Insitute ofDisaster Mitigation for Urban Cultural Heritage,Ritsumeikan University

“Fire Broke Out in the Main Hall and Surrounding Buildings of Shuri Castle”

The fire that broke out in the main hall and surrounding buildings of Shuri Castle was a shocking incident that reminds us of the necessity for the disaster mitigation of cultural heritage and historic cities. Shuri Castle continues to be loved by not only the local people but also people in other regions. It has been used for all sorts of activities. This fire made us realize the importance and meaning of cultural heritage, and it renewed our awareness of the importance of protecting our cultural heritage.

While some people view that Shuri Castle does not have much historical value as the destroyed buildings were restored in recent years, no one disputes its invaluable contributions to different stages of cultural activities in various fields. In addition, for the new generation, Shuri Castle serves as an emotional support because it existed since their birth. There will be no change in that regard.

The destroyed original buildings will not return. However, in order to prevent such a disaster from recurring, it is essential to support reconstruction through activities utilizing the lessons learned from the disaster. We, at the Institute of Disaster Mitigation for Urban Cultural Heritage, have learned the technologies and knowledge necessary for this purpose, and we will continue to do so.

We would like to express our sincere sympathies to all those concerned and hope the early recovery of Shuri Castle.

 November, 2019
Institute of Disaster Mitigation for Urban Cultural Heritage
Ritsumeikan University