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Zakimi Castle

Name: Zakimi Castle
Address: Japan, 〒904-0301 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, Zakimi, ７０８ ６
Rating: 4.3

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

Zakimi Castle, located in Yomitan Village on the island of Okinawa, is a historical fortress with roots stretching back to the early 15th century. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is renowned for its well-preserved stone walls and arches, which showcase the advanced masonry skills of the Ryukyu Kingdom during that era.

Constructed by the famous Ryukyuan commander Gosamaru in the 1420s, Zakimi Castle was strategically placed to oversee and defend against invasions from neighboring regions. The castle's thick limestone walls and cleverly designed architecture were pivotal in its defensive role, providing sturdy protection against both human and natural threats.

Today, what remains of Zakimi Castle offers a window into the past. Visitors can walk along the castle's ancient ramparts and through its gates, feeling the echoes of history that surround them. From its elevated position, the castle also offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the East China Sea, making it a favorite spot for both history buffs and nature lovers.

Hours:

Open 24 hours

Closed:

No closing days

Available:

All year

Minimum Age:

All ages are welcome

Fees:

Free

Hours

Monday: Open 24 hours

Tuesday: Open 24 hours

Wednesday: Open 24 hours

Thursday: Open 24 hours

Friday: Open 24 hours

Saturday: Open 24 hours

Sunday: Open 24 hours

Phone

+81 98-958-3141

Website

bunka.nii.ac.jp

The area

Address

Japan, 〒904-0301 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, Zakimi, ７０８６

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What other travelers are saying about Zakimi Castle

It's kind of crazy how many of these sites exist where they do. Unless you're looking for it, you probably wouldn't even know it was there. The trees lining the walkway up to the castle really set the tone for the incredible structure that's still standing after so many years. Once inside there's a large item space with another set of stairs that will take you to the upper level which is a bit smaller. The last set of stairs allows you to walk along the top of the walls giving you a view of the ocean, city, and mountains. I went close to sunset which is a great time to take some nice photos. It's quiet up there aside from the birds, it's quite peaceful if you are at all interested in history and great views away from all the traffic and so many people. I've seen a few of these sites and the view at this one is my favorite one so far, I recommend taking some time out to see it if you're visiting Okinawa.

Daniel Santiago

May 10, 2024

Interesting UNESCO site worth a stop if you are around. However, I prefer other castle sites like the Nakagusuku or Nakijin ones. Free access and parking.

Juan Ángel Hernández

Nov 2, 2024

fun afternoon visiting this UNESCO heritage site with a nice view at the top. the surrounding park was also nice to walk around. there's a museum by the carpark that showcased a bit of history of the area. the castle ruins itself is free to visit. but the museum coated 500Y for tourists and the exhibit information are all in Japanese. however on the app, there is a bit of English to supplement some of the exhibit descriptions.

Isabelle Athena

Jul 7, 2024

The historical site is a very nice park for visiting and worth a visit to understand the history of Ryukyu people. It's free. We were there in the late afternoon in December and there was hardly anyone there. We got to enjoy the tranquil place without many people surrounding us. The place is up on the hills and there's a good view up on the top. The ruin is not big by any means. However, it's a little distance from the parking lot. We spent about 45 min there total.

Let's Go

Dec 26, 2023

What’s better than having the opportunity to visit an UNESCO World Heritage Site? Doing so without it costing a dime! (errr, in this case Yen). This is a free compound to visit and enjoy! I’m always amazing to visit structures built so long ago - in this case the 1500’s - and finding them not only still standing but in good repair. This site is no different! It’s a beautiful area to take in, and the views from the castle really put it over the top! I couldn’t help but imagine living back in those times and visiting the castle. What would the views have been like back then without all of the civilization encroaching? Just a neat thought exercise! Get out and visit this place. It’s worth the drive!