Nakijin Castle Ruins

The Nakijin Castle Ruins are the historical remnants of a gusuku(Okinawan fortress) in the Motobu Peninsula, a peninsula located in the northern part of Okinawa Island. It takes about 2 hours to drive from Naha Airport on Okinawa Expressway, to this gusuku designated as a world heritage site.

It is believed that the history of Nakijin Castle Ruins is extensive, dating back to the 13th century. Surrounded by robust ramparts, the castle is located at an altitude of approximately 100 meters, and had served as a pivotal fortress to protect the Yanbaru (mountainous areas of Kunigami District in northern Okinawa).

Ever since the invasion by Chuzan (principality of the central region) forces during the Hananchi era, a Kanshu (administrator) had been stationed. After the last Kanshu withdrew in 1665, the site remained as a place for ceremonial festivals.

Guide to Nakijin Castle Ruins

  • 1 Outer Ward （Gaikaku）

    About two meters in height, the comparatively lower stone wall of the outer ward winds over a length of several hundred meters. Here, remains of a residence were confirmed in an excavation survey.

  • 2 Heirojo Gate

    This main gate was restored in 1962, during the age of the Ryukyu Government. In the Ryukyu-Koku Yuraiki (Chronicles of the Ryukyus), it is mentioned how the gate is protected by the Hokuzan king.

  • 3 Ushimi Riding Field （Ushimi）

    It is said this area was used to raise and train horses in preparation for battles. It is surrounded by the highest stone walls, making it a solid and robust ward.

  • 4 Kazafu Ground

    In the local language, “ka” refers to rivers or springs, and “zafu” means valleys. The ravine at this location has natural rocks exposed on the surface, creating a unique landscape.

  • 5 Old Pathway

    Through the Heirojo Gate and to the right is an old pathway through bedrock. It is a narrow and steep path favorable for defense against attacks.

  • 6 Umiya Court （Umiya）

    It is believed that the Seiden (Main Hall), Hokuden (North Hall), and Nanden (South Hall) were positioned around the Umiya Court. The area was an important part of the gusuku where ceremonies and other functions were held.

  • 7 Uchibaru Ground （Uchibaru）

    (Photo: Utaki at upper castle grounds) It is said to be the living quarters of the ladies of the court at Nakijin-jô, and is revered as one of the most sacred sites within the castle grounds. A panoramic view of the ocean can be seen from the north.

  • 8 Main Ward

    (Commonly called Honmaru) Transition periods from the construction to abandonment of the gusuku were identified through excavation surveys. This is where the main gusuku structures stood.

  • 9 Shijimajokaku Ward （Shigemajokaku）

    It is believed that the closest subjects serving the master of the gusuku resided in this area. Excavation surveys show there were four structures that once stood here.

  • 10 Kuba-no Utaki

    A limestone hill from the Paleozoic to the Mesozoic eras, located on the west-side of the Nakijin-jo Site. This site has been revered as a sacred area since the Ryukyuan period, and is referred to as the Uga-mi by the locals.

  • 11 Miimun Gusuku

    Miimun Gusuku is formed with piled stones of 1.5 meters in height, in a square form. It is believed that it may have been a branch castle of the Nakinjin Castle.

  • 12 Nakijin Mura (Village) Site

    There were several settlements surrounding the Nakijin Castle. Excavations have been conducted at the Nakijin Village Site and numerous pillar holes, pits, and ceramics made in China have been discovered.

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