Zakimi Castle Ruins– UNESCO World Heritage Site –

Zakimi Castle Ruins (座喜味城跡) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site located in Yomitan, Okinawa, Japan. The castle was built in the early 15th century by the Ryukyu Kingdom, a powerful maritime state that ruled over the islands of Okinawa. The castle served as both a defensive structure and a local administrative center, reflecting the unique blend of Okinawan, Chinese, and Japanese architectural styles that developed during the Ryukyu Kingdom era.

Zakimi Castle features a distinctive design with multiple layers of stone walls, turrets, an arched gate, and an observation platform. Visitors can explore the castle’s ruins and learn about its history at the on-site Zakimi Castle Ruins Yuntanza Museum. The castle is particularly popular during the cherry blossom season in spring, when the castle grounds are adorned with beautiful pink blooms.

Getting there

By Bus

From Naha Bus Terminal:

1. Take bus number 28 to Takashiho Iriguchi stop

• Journey time: 80 minutes
• Cost: 1080 yen
• Frequency: 2-4 buses per hour
• Walk 20-30 minutes from the bus stop to the castle ruins

Alternatively:

• Take bus number 29 to Zakimi bus stop
• Journey time: 80 minutes
• Cost: 1040 yen
• Frequency: 5-6 buses per day
• Walk 10 minutes from the bus stop to the castle ruins

By Car

From central Naha:

• Drive north on Route 58
• Turn east onto Route 12 in Yomitan
• Follow signs to Zakimi Castle
• Journey time: About one hour

Details

Hours	Open 24 hours
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 98-958-3141
Address	〒904-0301 Okinawa, Nakagami District, Yomitan, Zakimi, ７０８ ６
Official Website	https://www.okinawastory.jp/feature/heritage/zakimijoato