Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Name: Nakagusuku Castle Ruins
Address: 1258番地 Tomari, Nakagusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2402, Japan
Rating: 4.4

4.4 (200)・Historical Place・Tourist Attraction・Historical Landmark・Point Of Interest・Establishment

Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, located on the island of Okinawa, offers a fascinating glimpse into the region's rich history and architectural ingenuity. These impressive ruins, a UNESCO World Heritage site, are among the best-preserved examples of Ryukyu kingdom castles, providing visitors with a unique opportunity to explore the ancient defensive structures that have stood the test of time.

Perched strategically atop a series of limestone ridges, Nakagusuku Castle Ruins boast panoramic views of the surrounding countryside and the Pacific Ocean, illustrating why this location was chosen for defense purposes. The castle's walls, constructed with precisely fitted stones, showcase the advanced masonry skills of Ryukyu builders, who crafted this fortress without the use of mortar.

As you walk through the sprawling complex, you can visit the remains of several courtyards, administrative halls, and residential areas, each telling stories of the castle's past. The meticulous layout and surviving structures reflect the sophisticated social structure and cultural achievements of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Adults: 400 yen

High school students: 300 yen

Children (Elementary): 200 yen

Hours

Monday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Thursday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Friday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Saturday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Sunday: 8:30 AM – 5:00 PM

Phone

+81 98-935-5719

Website

www.nakagusuku-jo.jp

The area

Address

1258番地 Tomari, Nakagusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa 901-2402, Japan

Top ways to experience Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

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Okinawa Unveiled: A Journey Through Nature's Wonders and Historical Echoes

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What other travelers are saying about Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Great place to see breathtaking views and get some impressive photos. Small fee to enter. They offer a free golf cart ride from the ticket booth to the entrance which was nice. You will have to walk up quite a few stairs to get to the top, but it's not bad at all and definitely worth it.

Anthony Schmitz

Mar 10, 2025

This castle ruin is worth a day trip! The walk up to the front entrance is a little far so if they offer the cart to take you I'd get on. One of the coolest parts I thought was the active repair and reconstruction of one of the walls. Another thing was it wasn't busy. So if you have at least two hours on the weekend free I'd check this place out.

David Bush

Jan 4, 2025

Beautiful and must-visit place for a nice long walk along the castle ruins and learn about the history. There were beautiful mountain cherry blossoms blooming when I visited in late-January.

Evelyn Foo

Feb 6, 2025

From the castle ruins located atop the hill, you can catch a glimpse of the history of the ancient Ryukyu Kingdom. The scenery here is stunning, offering a breathtaking view of the Pacific Ocean. It’s definitely worth a visit!

羊大頭

Jan 22, 2025

I really enjoyed walking in this historical place. Nice view of the pacific ocean and sea shore. Must visit! (There is a mini bus that will bring you up the hill)