Okinawa-born singer and actor GACKT visited the prefectural government on the 25th and donated 4.7 million yen for the reconstruction of Shuri Castle, which was destroyed by fire in October last year. “I felt a deep sense of loss when I saw the photos of Shuri Castle after it burned down. (This donation) comes from the cooperation of my fans who support me and my feelings for Okinawa,” said GACKT, wishing for the castle to be reconstructed as soon as possible.

GACKT has been selling special Shuri Castle reconstruction items for his national tour “GACKT 20th ANNIVERSARY LIVE TOUR 2020 KHAOS”, which celebrates his 20th career anniversary and began in January this year. He also sold the items on his official website, with the proceeds going to support the cause.

GACKT appeared in NHKBS Premium’s period drama “Tempest” which aired in 2011 and was set in Shuri Castle. He said that he hadn’t visited Shuri Castle since then, and said, “I was given permission to film in places that are normally inaccessible. Shuri Castle is a very memorable and emotional place for me.

Immediately after the fire at Shuri Castle, he wrote on his social media accounts, “It was used for the filming of The Tempest back then, and it holds special place in my heart as someone who loves Okinawa.”

Uehara Kunisada, director of the prefectural government’s Department of Civil Engineering and Construction, expressed his gratitude for the donation, saying, “We hope to use this precious donation we received to help restore and rebuild Shuri Castle.”

Source: okinawatimes.co.jp

Translation: Yoshi @ GACKT ITALIA Team

Translation © GACKT ITALIA