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Nakagusuku Castle Ruins
A beautiful World Heritage site that preserves the memory of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
These gusuku (castle) ruins were built on a hilly area 150 to 170 meters above sea level in central Okinawa on Okinawa’s main island. The east side faces the sea, including the Pacific Ocean and Nakagusuku Bay, while the northwest side is a steep slope, creating a natural fortress shaped by the terrain. Different techniques are used across the six enclosures-such as the Nozura technique (Rubble masonry), which stacks natural stones, and the Nunozumi technique (Ashlar masonry) and Aikata Tsumi technique (Ashlar masonry), which use processed stones-allowing you to trace the castle’s architectural evolution and history through its masonry.
Among the more than 300 gusuku said to have existed in the Ryukyu Kingdom, it is well preserved and is said to retain its original form better than almost any other. Its beauty and value are so highly regarded that it is also called a “stone museum.” From the hilltop and other elevated points, you can take in a magnificent panorama of the grand seascapes on both the east and west sides of Okinawa’s main island-views you cannot see from other gusuku-along with a sweeping view of the surrounding, nature-rich Okinawan landscape.
In 2000, it was also registered as a World Heritage site as a component property of “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom”. With plenty to see, you can experience Ryukyu history firsthand-from changes in government in the Ryukyu Kingdom to gusuku culture.
Highlights
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These historic castle ruins date back to the late 14th century, when construction began.
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From the castle walls that skillfully make use of natural rocks and terrain, you can admire the advanced masonry techniques of the time up close.
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In 2000, it was registered as a World Heritage site as a component property of “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom”.
Photos
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The sweeping panorama from the hilltop is also spectacular.
Official FAQs
Frequently Asked Questions have been vetted and answered directly by each listing.
Q
Do you have signs or pamphlets in foreign languages? (If you do, which languages are available?)
A
English, Simplified Chinese and Korean pamphlets available. Japanese and English signs available.
Q
Is free Wi-Fi available in the area?
A
No free Wi-Fi available.
Q
Are there coin lockers?
A
No. (Items can be left at the office at reception; valuables cannot be accepted.)
Q
Are there restrooms?
A
Yes. (Next to the reception office.)
Q
Is it possible to re-enter the premises?
A
Yes, by re-presenting the admission ticket of the day.
Q
Is there a smoking area?
A
Smoking is prohibited inside the castle grounds. (A designated area is provided in one corner of the parking lot.)
Q
Are there any sightseeing spots nearby?
A
Nakamura House Residence (a nationally designated Important Cultural Property).
Reviews
Details
- Name in Japanese
- 中城城跡
- Postal Code
- 901-2402
- Address
- 1258 Tomari, Nakagusukuson, Nakagamigun, Okinawa
- Telephone
- 098-935-5719 (Nakagusuku Castle Remain Collaborative management Council)
- Closed
- Open year-round (The site may close temporarily due to weather conditions, events, etc.)
- Business Hours
- 8:30 am-5:00 pm; open until 6:00 pm from May to September (closing of a gate: 30 minutes later)
- Admission
- Adults 500yen, High school and junior high school students 300yen, Elementary school students 200yen
- Access
- From Naha Airport, take Ryukyu Bus Kotsu Route 152 bound for AEON MALL Okinawa Rycom for about 45 minutes, then walk about 5 minutes from the last stop; or take the Gusuku Megurin bus from Chubu Tokushukai Hospital for about 26 minutes and walk about 1 minute from the “Nakagusuku Castle Ruins” stop
- Credit Cards
- Accepted
- Official Website
- Official Website (English)
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