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The Nakijin Castle Ruins, located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island, is a World Heritage site that tells the story of Okinawa’s rich history along with its beautiful nature.
This article describes the history, highlights, and accessibility of the Nakijin Castle Ruins.
This spot is recommended for those who are interested in Okinawan history and want to enjoy beautiful scenery.
- 1 What is Nakijin Castle Ruins?
- 2 Basic Information on Nakijin Castle Ruins
- 3 Historical Background of Nakijin Castle Ruins
- 4 History of Nakijin Castle Ruins in Chronological Order
- 5 Nakijin Castle Ruins Highlights
- 6 How to get to Nakijin Castle Ruins
- 7 Nearby Facilities Information
- 8 summary
- 9 Climate and Clothing by Month
- 10 If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
- 11 special feature article
What is Nakijin Castle Ruins?
Nakijin Castle Ruins is located in Nakijin Village, Kunigami County, Okinawa Prefecture, and is the site of a castle believed to have been built in the 14th century.
Also known as Kitayama Castle, it was one of the royal castles during the Kitayama Kingdom period before the Ryukyu Kingdom was established, and its name is etched in the history of Okinawa. This
In 2000, the ruins of the castle at the site were registered as a World Cultural Heritage site as “Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu” and are attracting attention both domestically and internationally as one of Okinawa’s representative historical heritages.
Basic Information on Nakijin Castle Ruins
| alias | Kitayama Castle |
| date of construction | 14th century |
| lord of a castle | King Kitayama, Ryukyu Kingdom |
| structure | fortified mountain castle |
| thing to note | Castle walls, curves, cobblestone pavement, comparable in scale to Shurijo Castle, cherry blossom viewing spot |
| address (e.g. of house) | 5101 Aza-Imadomari, Nakijin Village, Okinawa 905-0428, Japan |
| Phone number | 0980-56-4400 |
| contact information (for inquiries) (e.g. corporate phone number) | Nakijin Castle Ruins Management Office (in Nakijin Village Gusuku Exchange Center) |
| Business Hours | Regular (January-April, September-December): 8:00 a.m.-6:00 p.m. (last admission at 5:30 p.m.) Extended summer (May-August): 8:00 a.m.-7:00 p.m. (last admission at 6:30 p.m.) |
| business holiday | Open all year round *But may be closed without notice for special reasons. |
| Menu & Prices | Adults 600 yen, junior high and high school students 450 yen, elementary school students and younger free |
| Access | Approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes by car from Naha AirportOkinawa Expressway: Approximately 1 hour by car (open road) from the Kusuda IC Bus: Approximately 15 minutes on foot from the Nakijin Castle Ruins bus stop |
| parking lot | Free of charge (accommodates approx. 320 vehicles) |
A great way to reserve a rental car that locals also use!
Historical Background of Nakijin Castle Ruins
The Nakijin Castle Ruins are located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island and were probably one of the centers of power and culture in Okinawan society at that time.
The castle was built on high ground and is situated in an excellent location overlooking the East China Sea. Numerous historical artifacts have been excavated from the ruins of the castle, making it a valuable source of information in the study of the politics, economy, and culture of medieval Ryukyu.
Okinawa in the Sanzan Era
An essential part of the history of Nakijin Castle Ruins is the period known as the “Sanzan Period.
From the 14th to the 15th century, the main island of Okinawa was divided into three forces: the Kitayama, the Nakayama, and the Minamiyama.
Nakijin Castle flourished as the center of the Kitayama Kingdom, which ruled over a vast area from the northern part of Okinawa Island to the Amami Islands.
This period is considered to be one of the most diverse in Okinawan history, with each region developing its own unique culture and social system.
The Glory of the Kitayama Kingdom
The Kitayama Kingdom flourished around Nakijin Castle, and its domain extended from northern Okinawa Island to the Amami Islands.
The Beisan Kingdom enjoyed prosperity through active trade with foreign countries, especially with China and Southeast Asia.
A number of artifacts, including Chinese ceramics, have been excavated from the ruins of Nakijin Castle, which provide a glimpse of the international exchange that took place at that time.
The structure of the castle also reveals advanced architectural techniques and defensive features.
Nakijin Castle registered as a World Heritage Site
In 2000, the Nakijin Castle Ruins were registered as a World Cultural Heritage site as “Gusuku and related heritage sites of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.
This is the result of the universal value of the nine gusuku (castles) and related heritage sites, including the Nakijin Castle Ruins, as historical and cultural heritage of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.
The registration of Nakijin Castle Ruins as a World Heritage site has enhanced its value as a cultural heritage not only in Okinawa but also in the world, and it is attracting even more attention as a center for tourism to Okinawa and for academic research.
Despite its spectacular history and cultural heritage value, the ruins of Nakijin Castle are a precious site that holds many mysteries.
By visiting this place, you will experience a journey back to the good old days of Okinawa.
History of Nakijin Castle Ruins in Chronological Order
When the history of Nakijin Castle Ruins is traced chronologically, it becomes clear that its origins and changes are deeply connected to Okinawa’s rich history.
The following is a chronological description of these important historical events.
14th century: Beginning as the residence of the King of Kitayama
The ruins of Nakijin Castle were built in the 14th century by King Kitayama as his residence.
During this period, Okinawa was in the context of what is known as the Sanzan period, when it was divided into three regional powers: the Kitasan, the Chusan, and the Nanzan.
The Kitayama Kings ruled over the northern region of what is now the main island of Okinawa.
1429: Unification by King Shobashi of Zhongshan
In 1429, the Zhongshan king Shangbashi captured Beishan and brought it under his control.
This enabled Shobashi to successfully unify the main island of Okinawa and laid the foundation for the later Ryukyu Kingdom.
Nakijin Castle plays an important role in this historical turning point.
1609: Invasion and defeat of the Satsuma clan
In 1609, Nakijin Castle was destroyed by the invasion of the Satsuma clan.
This event was an important milestone in the relationship between the Ryukyu Kingdom and mainland Japan, and had a major impact on the foreign and domestic policies of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
1972: Designated as a national historic site
The ruins of Nakijin Castle were designated as a national historic site in Japan in 1972.
This designation has promoted the preservation and maintenance of the ruins of Nakijin Castle, and its historical value is now widely recognized.
2000: Registered as a World Heritage Site
In 2000, the Nakijin Castle Ruins were registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the “Gusuku and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.
This has brought international recognition of the historical and cultural value of the Nakijin Castle Ruins, and has attracted attention from around the world.
Thus, the ruins of Nakijin Castle have played an important role in Okinawa’s history.
Through its history, one can learn about the diversity and depth of Okinawa’s history, including the establishment of the Ryukyu Kingdom, its unification, and its relationship with outside powers.
Nakijin Castle Ruins Highlights
Magnificent city walls
The first thing that catches the eye when visiting the ruins of Nakijin Castle is its magnificent ramparts.
The castle walls are made of Ryukyu limestone and are characterized by their curved beauty that takes advantage of the complex topography.
In particular, the castle walls around the Shikeima Gate, located along the Shikeima River that runs along the east side of the castle, blend in with the surrounding landscape as if they are part of nature.
These walls testify to the high level of technology of the Beisan Kingdom at that time and the castle’s structure, which emphasized protection against external enemies. The castle walls, which show different expressions depending on the angle of view, leave a deep impression on visitors.
Attraction as a cherry blossom viewing spot
Nakijin Castle Ruins is also known as Japan’s northernmost cherry blossom viewing spot from late January to February.
The sight of the Kanhizakura cherry trees planted throughout the castle in full bloom is breathtaking, and the view of the castle ruins tinted in pink is captivating to visitors.
The cherry blossoms along the path from the “753 steps” to the main fortress are especially spectacular, and the collaboration of the castle walls and cherry blossoms is a highlight unique to Nakijin Castle Ruins.
During the cherry blossom season, the area is crowded with many cherry blossom viewers, as if to herald the arrival of spring.
Remains of the breath of the Ryukyu Kingdom
Within the ruins of Nakijin Castle, there are numerous remains that still carry the breath of the Ryukyu Kingdom era.
The most noteworthy of these is the “main wall” (shukaku). This is the highest point of the castle and is believed to be where the king once lived.
Even today, the foundation stone of the castle remains, reminding us of the prosperity of those days. In addition, “Uchibaru” is considered the holiest place in the castle, and “Tenchigiamachiji” here is still cherished by the local people as a place of worship that has continued since the Kitayama Period.
By visiting these remains, visitors will be reminded of the history and culture of the Ryukyu Kingdom period and the lives of its people.
Nakijin Castle Ruins is a historical heritage site with many attractions due to its magnificent castle walls, its beauty as a cherry blossom viewing spot, and its remains that allow visitors to feel the breath of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
It is definitely a spot worth visiting for those who want to learn more about Okinawa’s history and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
How to get to Nakijin Castle Ruins
Nakijin Castle Ruins is a World Heritage Site with a rich history, located in the northern part of Okinawa’s main island.
How can you access the site to experience its spectacular natural and historical background? Below are detailed instructions on how to access the site by car, bus, and train.
Access by car
The distance from Naha Airport to Nakijin Castle Ruins is approximately 90 km, and the trip takes approximately 2 hours.
The smoothest route is to take the Okinawa Expressway. From Naha Airport, first head north on Route 331 and enter the Naha Interchange on the Okinawa Expressway.
Drive north on the Okinawa Expressway and exit at the Hsuuda Interchange. From here, head north on Route 58 and follow the signs to Nakijin Village to reach the Nakijin Castle Ruins.
This route is particularly scenic and allows visitors to enjoy Okinawa’s natural beauty to the fullest.
Access by bus
There is no direct bus from Naha Bus Terminal to Nakijin Castle Ruins, but the most common way to get to Nakijin Castle Ruins is from Naha via Nago.
First, take an express bus (No. 111, No. 117, etc.) from Naha Bus Terminal to Nago Bus Terminal, arriving at Nago Bus Terminal in about 1 hour and 30 minutes. From the Nago Bus Terminal, transfer to a bus bound for Nakijin (or a bus bound for Motobu) and arrive in Nakijin Village in about 1 hour.
Access by bus is a valuable way to get up close and personal with local Okinawan life.
Access by train and bus
Okinawa has the Okinawa Urban Monorail (Yui Rail), which runs from Naha Airport to Shuri Station in about one hour.
From Shuri Station, walk or take a bus to Naha Bus Terminal, and from there go to Nakijin Castle Ruins via Nago Bus Terminal as in the aforementioned bus access method.
By combining trains and buses, visitors can experience the charm of traveling between the urban areas and the nature-rich northern part of Okinawa.
Whichever access method you choose, the journey to Nakijin Castle Ruins is full of opportunities to experience the beautiful scenery and culture of Okinawa. Plan your trip well in advance and enjoy a pleasant visit.
Nearby Facilities Information
Nakijin Village, located in the northern part of Okinawa Prefecture, is a charming area with its rich nature and deep history.
Among them, the World Heritage-listed Nakijin Castle Ruins attracts many tourists, but there are many more attractions in the surrounding area.
Nakijin Village History and Culture Center
The Nakijin Village History and Culture Center is one of the facilities you should stop by when visiting the Nakijin Castle Ruins.
There are abundant exhibits on the history and culture of the Nakijin Castle Ruins, allowing visitors to learn in depth about the history, culture, and lifestyle of the Ryukyu Kingdom since the days of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.
Visitors will also learn about its value and significance as a World Heritage site, and will gain a better understanding of the Nakijin Castle Ruins.
Since the entrance ticket to the Nakijin Castle Ruins is valid for admission, please visit the museum when you visit the castle ruins.
Churaumi Aquarium
Located about 30 minutes by car from the ruins of Nakijin Castle, Churaumi Aquarium is a must-see when visiting Okinawa.
It is one of the largest of its kind in the world and allows visitors to observe up close the various creatures that inhabit Okinawa’s oceans.
In particular, the schools of whale sharks and manta rays swimming in the huge tanks are a sight to behold and continue to attract visitors.
The aquarium also offers a wide variety of learning programs and events related to Okinawa’s marine life, making it ideal for family visits.
Kouri Island
Kouri Island is a small island accessible by car in about 20 minutes from the ruins of Nakijin Castle.
The entire island is surrounded by beautiful sea and unique scenery, and the view from the Kouri Bridge is especially spectacular.
On this island, you can enjoy the blue sea and sky, as well as the lush nature of the island.
Visitors can also enjoy activities such as cycling and swimming, providing an unforgettable experience.
Emerald Beach
Emerald Beach, located near Churaumi Aquarium, is characterized by white sand and clear waters.
The waves are calm, and families with small children can enjoy swimming in the sea without anxiety.
The beach area is also well equipped, with showers, changing rooms, and rental services to make your day comfortable.
This is a must-visit spot for those who want to fully enjoy the beautiful ocean of Okinawa.
Hashi no Eki Rikarikawarmi
Located in Nakijin Village, a village blessed with beautiful scenery and nature in northern Okinawa, Hashi no Eki Rikarikawarmi is truly a hidden gem.
Located at the foot of the Walumi Bridge connecting Kouri Island and Yagaji Island, one of the most beautiful islands in Okinawa, it offers visitors a spectacular view and a taste of Okinawa.
Kouri Ohashi Bridge: Access point with a spectacular view
The gateway to Kouri Island, the bridge is known for its length and beautiful scenery. The view from the bridge is breathtaking and is sure to be a highlight of your drive.
JUNGLIA
In 2025, a new history is about to be written on the land of Okinawa.
JUNGLIA, which will be located on the banks of the World Natural Heritage Yanbaru forest, is more than just a theme park.
summary
Nakijin Castle Ruins is one of the World Heritage sites where you can feel the history of Okinawa.
By visiting its magnificent castle walls and natural beauty, combined with the abundance of tourist facilities in the area, you will be able to experience the best of Okinawa.
In addition to a trip to history, visitors can spend valuable time interacting with nature and experiencing local culture.
Climate and Clothing by Month
Okinawa Travel Guide! A thorough guide to travel costs and staycation techniques by time of year
If you want to enjoy Okinawa, get discount tickets online!
special feature article
Roadside Stations and Direct Selling Stations Special Feature!
Michi no Eki (Roadside Stations) and direct sales shops in Okinawa are very popular tourist attractions. Each has its own unique characteristics, making them 200% worth visiting! Please visit them!
Special feature on beaches on the main island of Okinawa!
The main island of Okinawa has many wonderful beaches that can only be found in the tropics. We will introduce each of them in an easy-to-understand manner, from the very secluded to the well-serviced executive beaches.
Typhoon Okinawa
We have compiled a list of points to keep in mind when a typhoon approaches so that you can respond without panic before or during your trip. We hope you will find it useful.
