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Nakijin Castle Ruins

Name: Nakijin Castle Ruins
Address: 5101 Imadomari, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0428, Japan
Rating: 4.3

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

Nakijin Castle Ruins, located on the northern part of Okinawa Island, are a poignant reminder of the Ryukyu Kingdom's rich history and cultural heritage. These impressive ruins, declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site, date back to the 14th century and are considered one of the most important historical sites in Okinawa.

The castle was once a formidable fortress and the residence of the rulers of the Hokuzan kingdom, one of the three kingdoms that competed for dominance over the Ryukyu Islands before unification. Today, what remains are the massive stone walls and arches that intricately weave through the lush landscape, revealing the advanced masonry skills of the Ryukyu people.

Visiting Nakijin Castle Ruins is like walking through a portal to the past. As you explore the sprawling site, you’ll encounter stunning vistas of the surrounding countryside and the East China Sea, which highlight why this location was strategically important. The ruins are particularly enchanting during the cherry blossom season, when the area is blanketed in pink blooms, creating a breathtaking scene against the ancient stonework.

Hours:

January to April and September to December: 8:00 AM to 6:00 PM

May to August: 8:00 AM to 7:00 PM

Last entry 30 minutes before closing

Closed:

Open daily

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Adults: 600 yen

High school and junior high school students: 450 yen

Elementary school students and younger: Free

Hours

Monday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Tuesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Wednesday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Thursday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Friday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Saturday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Sunday: 8:00 AM – 6:00 PM

Phone

+81 980-56-4400

Website

www.nakijinjoseki-osi.jp

The area

Address

5101 Imadomari, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0428, Japan

Top ways to experience Nakijin Castle Ruins

9hrs

Okinawa Regular Sightseeing Bus Tour: Kouri Island / Nakijin Castle / Churaumi course

From $45 /person

9hrs

Private Okinawa Day Tour in Your Own Chartered Vehicle

From $0 /person

What other travelers are saying about Nakijin Castle Ruins

It is a nice place to be at. It is quiet and windy. You get be be close to nature. The worrying thing is that I see a couple of workers on the rocks trying to clear the moss. I do not think that they were harnessed.

Di Di

Dec 4, 2024

Of of the 9 UNESCO cultural heritage sites in Okinawa. All the Okinawan castle ruins look very much the same so you could skip this one if you have visited other castles like Katsuren or Nakagusuku. The site is beautiful and is worth visiting if in the area for its views. Judging by other’s people’s photos this place is beautiful when visited during the cherry blossom season.

Juan Ángel Hernández

Nov 9, 2024

Very interesting historical site. Most of the plaques have English, Chinese, Korean and Japanese, so it's good for foreign visitors. The castle and cultural center are good for learning about local history.

Dorito Mango

Nov 18, 2024

Nakijin Castle, Okinawa, is a UNESCO World Heritage site. The sakura species in Okinawa is called Ryukyu Kanhizakura. These are photos that were taken in late January 2020.

Meng Fai Yip

Sep 11, 2024

600¥ for a nice walk through the ruins. There are a few signs with information here and there but mostly you just look at the scenery. Being here while the cherry blossoms are in bloom was definitely a highlight! Multiple parking lots in the area and shops with food and souvenirs next to the ticket counter (definitely check out the ceramics store!!).