Step back in Time: Ryukyu Kingdom Ruins & Castles in Okinawa
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When it comes to castles and destinations with a lot of history, Okinawa comes to mind due to the sheer number of ruins that are spread throughout the Japanese prefecture. Once home to the Ryukyu Kingdom which was located in the Ryukyu Islands, Okinawa was a place that once had approximately 300 castles and keeps.
Since then, most of the castle structures have been horribly damaged due to wars and they were never repaired. Now, only a few ruins remain in a good enough state to visit.
The Ryukyu Kingdom ruled from 1429 to 1879 during which many of these “gusuku’s” (the local name for Okinawan fortresses made of stone walls that were built in the Ryukyu Kingdom) were home to powerful people including royalty and Aji’s who were lords of the upper class back then.
Each of the castle ruins found here in Okinawa allows you to look back in time and see how different the kingdom would have been compared to the modern day. They all have something in common as they are all located on top of hills or small mountains so they could see any potential threats heading their way. This was a typical planning strategy to keep the structures – and their residents – as safe as possible from any possible enemies.
So, if you enjoy history and have some time free during your Okinawan holiday, check out some of these impressive castles and fortresses, and on a clear day, you’ll even get to admire the breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the East China Sea from each viewpoint.
| Country: | Japan |
| Currency: | Japanese Yen / JPY |
| Do you need a visa to visit as tourists? | Check here |
Don’t forget to get travel insurance to cover you if something bad happens. One company I have personal experience with is Safety Wing. Not everyone needs the same coverage, so make sure you get a personalised quote that suits you and your trip plans.
Want to stay connected during your visit to Okinawa? If you have a compatible phone device you can get an eSIM through Airalo. If not, consider this physical Japanese SIM card that you can order in an 8, 16 or 31-day plan. You can also have it delivered to your hotel
How to visit the castles in Okinawa
It can be hard to navigate around the Okinawan prefecture and especially tricky to make it to some of these castles relying just on public transport. So I would highly recommend renting a car during your visit. To rent a car you must ensure you have your international driver’s permit which you can only get from your home country ahead of arriving in Japan.
Okinawa Island
As most of the castles on Okinawa Island are located in the south, Naha, the capital, is a good option for day trips as it is the easiest city to get around from. This is also where the few guided castle tours start from (not to mention that Naha is the transportation hub to reach other islands – and other castles).
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Booking.com is another site for accommodation except this site allows you to narrow down other types of properties based on your requirements. Guesthouses, hotels and more with an extensive amenities filter to find the exact property that suits your needs.
Shuri Castle Ruins ้ฆ้ๅ
Location: 1-2 Shurikinjocho, Naha, Okinawa 903-0815
| Months/Season | Opening Times |
|---|---|
| December to March | 8 am – 6 pm |
| April to June | 8:30 am – 7 pm |
| July to September | 8:30 am – 8 pm |
| October to November | 8:30 am – 6 pm |
Shuri Castle was one of the main palaces of the Ryukyu Kingdom between the years 1429 and 1879 and is one of the most famous castles in Okinawa. It was built on a hill overlooking what we now know as Naha, 130 meters above sea level. This viewpoint offers 360 views across the southern part of the island. Existing through both the first and second Sho Dynasties, the castle remained an important part of the cultural centre of the Ryukyu Islands.
After this period it was mostly neglected and started to fall into a state of slight disrepair. For many years the castle sat unused, and during the battle of Okinawa in 1945 it was severely damaged.
After being almost completely destroyed, it was gradually built back to usable condition ready to be used as a University campus in 1958. Again, much of the structure burned down and had to be rebuilt as late as 2020. Today, it is a popular tourist attraction and is visited as one of the top day trips in Naha.
Admission Fee: Adults 400JPY (ยฃ2.05 / $2.70), High School Students 300JPY (ยฃ1.50 / $2), Junior Students 160JPY (ยฃ0.82/ $1.07), Under 6 FREE
Tour options: If you’d rather not go independently, you can book a group tour to visit below:
- Sunset bicycle sightseeing tour with Shuri Castle stop
- A Romantic Journey Through Shuri & Shuri Castle
Urasoe Castle Ruins ๆตฆๆทปๅ่ทก
Location: 2 Chome-53-1 Nakama, Urasoe, Okinawa 901-2103
Urasoe castle was built between the late 13th and early 14th century and made of Ryukyuan limestone, wood and ceramic roof tiles. The castle once served as the capital of the Chuzan principality before the capital of the Ryukyu Kingdom was awarded to Shuri.
Located in Urasoe, which is outside of the current Okinawan capital of Naha, these castle ruins are extremely well-kept compared to some others on the island. Since this castle was once the royal capital (before the Ryukyu Kingdom) it represents the first example of larger and grander structures than those that predate it.
The castle was used between the late 13th century and the Invasion of Ryukyu back in 1609 when much of the structure was demolished in battle. During that time, much of the castle was dismantled and many of the structural materials were used to help construct Shuri castle which isn’t located too far away. In 1509 however, Sho Shin moved in and oversaw its refurbishment, which stood strong for the next 100 years.
Today, the castle ruins can be visited 24 hours a day and offer some nice views over the island. On the same grounds, you’ll find the location of the famous Hacksaw Ridge.
Admission Fee: There is no admission fee for this castle.
Opening Times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is located in a park rather than a place with an “entrance”
Katsuren Castle Ruins ๅ้ฃๅ่ทก
Location: 3807-2 Katsurenhaebaru, Uruma, Okinawa 904-2311
| Season | Opening Times |
|---|---|
| May – September | 8:30 am – 5 pm |
| October – April | 9 am – 5 pm |
Another addition to our castles of Okinawa list is Katsuren Castle which is located in modern-day Uruma. Standing on top of a natural cliff on the Yokatsu Peninsula, with outstanding views of the Pacific Ocean, this property was once home to a powerful chief of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
Considered the oldest castle in Okinawa, constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries, this castle was in use until 1611 although it was damaged in 1458 by the Ryukyuan army. Not only was this a stunning structure of its time, but much of its fortress walls are still standing strong today allowing visitors a glimpse into its history – with a stunning panoramic view.
Over many years, archaeologists have uncovered many artefacts at this site including Roman currency which so happened to be the first time it has been found in Japan. In 2000 the castle was added to the list of UNESCO heritage sites in the area of “Gusuku Sites of the Kingdom of Ryukyu”
Admission Fee: Adults 400JPY (ยฃ2.05 / $2.70) , High School Students 300JPY (ยฃ1.50 / $2), Junior Students 200JPY (ยฃ1 / $1.34), Preschool-aged children go FREE
Nakagusuku Castle Ruins ไธญๅๅ่ทก
Location: 1258็ชๅฐ Tomari, Nakagusuku, Okinawa 901-2402
Nakagusuku Castle is one of the many castles in Okinawa built in the Ryukyuan Kingdom. In the mid-14th century, the castle was constructed by Gosamaru (a close servant to King Sho Taikyu) and some of the Ryukyuan Lords at the time took up residence there. In 1458 the castle became king-controlled under royal rule before surviving multiple different eras: the Muromachi Era, Edo Era, Meiji Era, Taisho Era and the Showa Era.
The castle was originally built as a defence against the attacks from Lord Amawari of Katsuren Castle. He had dreams of trying to take over the throne in Ryukyu. Although only ruins remain today, they have been well-preserved which makes it easy to see the clear divides between the various citadels on the land.
From the highest point of the castle structure, you’ll get to enjoy panoramic views over Nakagusuku Bay. In 2000, this castle was yet another in the area added to the UNESCO heritage list. It is also one of the best-preserved castles that didn’t receive too much damage during WW2’s battle of Okinawa, which is why it is currently one of the top-rated castle ruins on the island.
Admission Fee: For single adult tickets, 400 JPY (ยฃ2.05 / $2.70)
| Season | Opening Times |
|---|---|
| May – September | 8:30 am – 6 pm |
| October – April | 8:30 am – 5 pm |
Tour option: This tour stops at 3-4 different locations throughout Okinawa Island including Nakagusuku Castle.
- Exploring Okinawa’s Natural Beauty and Rich History (Including Nakagusuku Castle)
Agena Castle Ruins ๅฎๆ ถๅๅ่ทก
Location: Agena, Uruma, Okinawa 904-2214
Also known as Ogawa Castle, this is a site of castle ruins that have not been excavated at all. Due to the style and similarities between this and other castles in Okinawa, it is estimated that this one was constructed also in the 14th century. Unlike the other structures in the area, there is only a limited amount of historical information known about this one.
We do know that this castle was once owned by The Ogawa Aji whose family resided here for multiple generations before being severely damaged by the Ryukyuan army. It was once home to both an inner gate and outer gate, but currently, only the inner gate still exists on the property. There are still some Utaki sites of worship of the Ryukyuan religion, plus there have been many fragments of Chinese ceramics located on the grounds surrounding the castle.
Admission Fee: Entry is free
Opening Times: 24 hours, 7 days a week
Zakimi Castle Ruins ๅบงๅๅณๅ่ทก
Location: ใ904-0301 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, Zakimi, ๏ผ๏ผ๏ผ ๏ผ
Built by commander Gosamaru, between 1416 and 1422 in Yomitan, this castle was used to protect Chuzan during the Sanzan era. Plagued with constant battles in the civil war, this castle had multiple features to help it defend against the enemy for many years.
With slanted walls that protrude outwards and make it easier to spot potential attackers, being perched on top of a hill 125 meters above sea level as well as having a fake entrance tunnel, this fortress was great at deterring the enemy and being used as a safe haven.
This is one of only two castles in Okinawa (along with Nakagusuku) where visitors are allowed to walk or stand on certain areas of the castle walls. With a great opportunity to watch the sunset from the top and enjoy the panoramic views as far as Naha in the south or the north side of central Okinawa on a clear day, this castle shouldn’t be missed during your stay on the island.
It was also added to the UNESCO heritage list along with other Ryukyu Gusukus in 2000.
Admission fee: There is no admission fee, so access to the ruins is free.
Opening Times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is located in a park rather than a place with an “entrance”
Tour options: Cape Zanpa Park, Zakimi Castle, & Southeast Botanical Gardens One Day Trip in Okinawa
Chinen Castle Ruins ็ฅๅฟตๅ่ทก (ๅฝๆๅฎๅฒ่ทก)
Location: ใ901-1501 Okinawa, Nanjo, Chinen, Chinen, ไธ็ฐๅ
Located in Nanjo on the southeast of the island, the ruins of Chinen Castle are something you should add to your historical itinerary. Although not as large and impressive as some of the other castles in Okinawa, there are definitely some appealing features of this one worth seeing.
Many years ago, this old castle was used as a place the King of the Ryukyu Kingdom would pilgrimage to, and like most castles from that era, there is a fantastic view over the ocean and the town below.
This is the second oldest castle across the Ryukyu Islands. Built before 1314 during the Chuzan era, this castle was in use all the way until 1893, being under the rule of 4 empires during that time. This property is split into two distinct castles with different wall styles, the old castle, called Kugusuku, to the east (made of Ryukyuan limestone) and the new castle to the west (made out of ashlar masonry). The new castle – called Migusuku -wasn’t built until after 1477 when Sho Shin took residence there.
Although not much of the structure is standing in the modern-day, there are two complete archways that show where the original and newer structures stood.
Admission fee: There is no admission fee, so access to the ruins is free.
If you are unable to rent a car, public transportation is available on the island, however, it is not a very extensive transportation system which means you may need to walk a fair distance in between. If walking isn’t an option due to the steep hills each castle is found on, and if the buses don’t take you close enough, you do have the option to use Uber and Didi rideshare apps. Just be aware that it may take a while to get back from the castles due to some of them being in slightly remote locations.
Opening Times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is located in a park rather than a place with an “entrance”
Nakijin Castle ไปๅธฐไปๅ่ทก
Location: 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0428
Nakijin Castle was located in the heart of the Hokizan principality (one of 3 at the time) during the 14th century. Constructed using Ryukyu limestone by the King of Sanhoku, named Haniji, this castle had a very important role with regard to religion at the time because of the sacred Utaki groves located on the site.
With views over Unten port (the ferry terminal that now takes you to Izena and Iheya islands, and also over the city of Nakijin, you’ll see why this castle was built in this spot. Having clear views over the land below, it makes for a good defense mechanism to keep potential enemies away.
This castle was damaged in two battles, the invasion of Hokizan in 1416 and then the invasion of Ryukyu in 1609 which saw the end of an era with this property being inhabitable. Today the castle grounds are popular with tourists, and those wanting to visit the small museum location near the entrance.
Admission fee: Single adult ticket is 600 JPY (ยฃ3 / $4)
Opening Times: 8 am until 6 pm, daily.
Visit Nakijin Castle during cherry blossom season too!
Kumejima Island
Kume Island is a volcanic island located about 90 km west of Naha, has a small population and is another paradise neighbouring the Keramas to its south. Most people who visit the island get accommodation near Kumejima town on the east coast near Janada, although the castle is located towards the central west of the island.
Uegusuku Castle Ruins ๅฎๆฑๅๅ่ทก
Location: Uegusuku, Kumejima, Shimajiri District, Okinawa 901-3101
Like most of the other castles in Okinawa already mentioned, Uegusuku Castle Ruins are located on top of a hill offering panoramic views across the entirety of the island. In this case, Kumejima Island. What makes these castle ruins a little more special than the rest is that they are standing on top of the summit of Uegusuku-Dake, 310 meters high which makes them the highest castle in all of the prefecture.
The castle was built in the 15th century and was once the home to the Aji of Kume Magiri. It was under Ryukyu Kingdom rule from the 16th century onwards and is made from Ryukyuan limestone and wood – just like many other castles in the region.
The castle only has a few sections of wall still standing and much of the structure has modern fences put in place to keep visitors safe. You’ll be able to enjoy the stunning view over the East China Sea from the top and if you visit on a clear day you’ll be able to see the famous Hate-no-hame sandbar!
Opening Times: 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. It is located on top of a hill with no gate
Admission fee: There is no cost to visit
Need help planning your trip?
Check out how to plan a trip abroad & see my travel resources for more.
Skyscanner – A comprehensive comparison website showing where to purchase flights.
HostelWorld – The biggest selection of hostels & sociable accommodations.
Booking.com – The largest collection of accommodations AND flights worldwide.
Safety Wing – A travel insurance brand for long-term travellers and nomads.
Airalo – An eSIM card company that lets you stay connected during your trip.
Wise – Perfect for transferring foreign currencies.
iVisa – For applying for tourist and visitor visas.
Viator – Great for finding tours and activities worldwide.
Get Your Guide – Another company for finding activities.
Klook – Have some of the best activity deals in Asia.
