Nakijin Castle Ruins– UNESCO World Heritage Site –

Nakijin Castle Ruins (今帰仁城跡) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Nakijin, Okinawa, Japan. It is a historic fortress and palace that dates back to the Ryukyu Kingdom, which ruled the Okinawa Islands from the 15th to the 19th century.

The castle was constructed on a hill overlooking the surrounding area, and its walls and gates were designed to provide defense against enemy attacks. The castle complex also included a royal residence, administrative buildings, and a sacred shrine.

Today, visitors can explore the castle ruins, which include several restored buildings and structures. The castle’s walls and gates are particularly impressive, and visitors can climb to the top for panoramic views of the surrounding area. The restored royal residence provides a glimpse into the lifestyle of the Ryukyu royal family, while the shrine remains a popular spot for visitors to pray and make offerings.

Nakijin Castle Ruins are one of the most important historical sites in Okinawa and provide a fascinating insight into the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Getting there

By Direct Bus from Naha

• Take the Yanbaru Express Bus from Naha Airport or city center
• Get off at Nakijinjōshi-iriguchi (今帰仁城跡入口) bus stop
• Journey time: About 2.5 hours
• Cost: 2,000-2,100 yen
• Frequency: Roughly every two hours

By Bus from Nago

• Take bus number 65 or 66 from Nago Bus Terminal
• Get off at Nakijinjōshi-iriguchi (今帰仁城跡入口) bus stop
• Journey time: 45-60 minutes
• Cost: 800 yen
• Frequency: 1-2 buses per hour

By Car

• Take the Okinawa Expressway from Naha to its northern end near Nago
• Follow regular roads to the castle
• Total journey time from Naha: About 2 hours (more during rush hours)
• Expressway toll: 1,040 yen one way

Details

Hours	8:00 AM – 6:00 PM May to August / 8:00 AM – 7:00 PM Reception closes 30 minutes before closing time.
Admission	Adults: 600 yen Junior high school and high school students: 450 yen
Phone	+81 980-56-4400
Address	5101 Imadomari, Nakijin, Kunigami District, Okinawa 905-0428
Official Website	https://www.nakijinjoseki-osi.jp/