Katsuren Castle Ruins World Heritage Okinawa, Japan

Katsuren Castle Ruins

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

Katsuren Castle Ruins, perched atop a steep hill on the eastern coast of Okinawa, are steeped in history and legend. Known as the "Castle in the Sea," these ruins offer a glimpse into the Ryukyu Kingdom's past and breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding Pacific Ocean and Uruma City.

The castle, which dates back to the 14th century, was once the residence of the famous Lord Amawari, a figure shrouded in intrigue and folklore. Amawari was known both for his political cunning and the dramatic rise and fall of his power within the kingdom. Exploring the ruins, visitors can walk among the massive limestone walls and foundations that have withstood centuries of history, imagining the once-thriving castle bustling with Ryukyuan warriors and aristocrats.

Katsuren Castle is recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, celebrated not only for its historical significance but also for its architectural uniqueness. The site’s design showcases the strategic military thinking of the time, with walls and placements expertly calculated to use the natural landscape for defence.

Hours:

24/7

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Free

Hours

Monday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Friday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Saturday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday: 9:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Phone

+81 98-978-2033

Website

www.katsuren-jo.jp

The area

Address

3807-2 Katsurenhaebaru, Uruma, Okinawa 904-2311, Japan

Top ways to experience Katsuren Castle Ruins

9hrs

Private Okinawa Day Tour in Your Own Chartered Vehicle

From $0 /person

10hrs

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

From $641 /group

What other travelers are saying about Katsuren Castle Ruins

Extraordinary place. Not only do you get to explore the ruins which have magnificent views, there is a museum with interactive consoles, a short movie that explains the history and many displays. Highly recommend!

Freya'sdottir X

Aug 5, 2024

Definitely upgraded since the last 4 years. There is a musuem and 2 gift shops on premises. There is a fee to go to castle. Less than 500¥ an adult. Musuem: awesome history of the castle with fantastic models. Signs in Japanese and English in the mail part. Love the 3d town. Really impressed with the new musuem. You can get a free shuttle [think large gold cart] ride to the base of the castle. [The dirt parking lot at the base of the castle is no longer available]. Castle has 3 layers to see and offers amazing views. Signs in Japanese and English.

Yuuki AsunaYui

Aug 16, 2024

Beautiful castle ruins, and amazing views overlooking the ocean and city. The museum show was great addition after visiting the castle. Great way to spend a couple of hours.

The Traveling Condor

Jan 14, 2024

Inexpensive ticket for entry and plenty of parking. The museum at the beginning is very cool and contains loads of interactive information. The walk up to the ruins is beautiful and seeing everything up close was amazing. The view at the top is gorgeous, if you're in the area I highly recommend stopping by.

Ryan De La Luz

Mar 30, 2023

Love 360 panoramic views. Admission fee included round trip car rides to the uphill entrance of the Ruin. The ruin was serene and beautiful until the large group of primary school field trip was there😅.