On the morning of 31 October 2019, a large fire broke out and burned down Seiden, the main hall, and also Hokuden and Nanden, adjacent buildings to the north and south. A security alarm went off around 2:30 a.m., and a call to emergency services was placed around 10 minutes later.

Seiden, Hokuden, Nanden and Bandokoro were completely destroyed. According to domestic news sources, "Six castle buildings occupying some 4,200 square meters in total were gutted. 

The fire was put out around 1:30 p.m.

The Japanese Government is considering supplemental appropriations to support restoration work.

UNESCO also said it would be ready to assist with Shurijo's reconstruction. 

A crowdfunding campaign set up by Naha City officials for the rebuilding of Shurijo received over $3.2 Million in donations as of 12:00 on 6 November.