Nakijin Castle Ruins

Located in the northern part of Okinawa Main Island, on the Motobu Peninsula, these ruins were once the residence of the king of Hokuzan during the Sanzan Period, when Ryukyu was divided into three regions: Hokuzan, Chuzan, and Nanzan, each vying for power. The castle, believed to have been constructed in the 13th century, was registered as a World Cultural Heritage site in 2000 as part of the "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu."

The remaining castle walls extend about 1.5km in length, with the highest point reaching 8m, and the castle spans an area of about 7.9ha, comparable in size to "Shuri Castle." The castle consists of 10 enclosures, with a stone-paved path leading from the castle gate to the large courtyard, where the main hall and other significant structures were believed to have stood. Built on a hill with an elevation of 90 to 100 meters, the site offers breathtaking views below.

Given the vast size of the site, it's recommended to start at the "Nakijin Castle Ruins Exchange Center," where tickets are sold, to grasp the history and overall picture of the facility before touring. The site has many slopes, so comfortable clothing and shoes are essential. A visit typically takes between one hour to an hour and a half, and volunteer guide services are available.