Located in Naha City, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan, it is the main castle and political and cultural center of the Ryukyu Kingdom in the history of the Okinawa Islands. Built in the late 14th century, it became the center of the Ryukyu Kingdom after being unified by the founder of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Shang Bazhi, in 1429. It was once the residence and administrative center of the Ryukyu King until 1879 when Ryukyu was officially incorporated into Japan's territory and established as Okinawa Prefecture. Renowned for its unique Ryukyuan architectural style and distinctive red roof, its design blends Chinese and Japanese architectural techniques. Shuli City and its related sites were listed as World Heritage Sites by UNESCO in 2000.