What to know
Nakagusuku Castle (中城) is one of several castles built across Okinawa during the Ryukyu Kingdom era, which flourished for centuries before Okinawa became a Japanese prefecture in 1879. Today, only ruins remain, but they are remarkably well preserved, and the castle's layout of multiple citadels is still clearly visible. The site also offers lovely views of the surrounding countryside and Nakagusuku Bay.
Nakagusuku Castle is part of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designated in 2000. It's a great idea to pair a visit here with a trip to nearby Nakamurake, a beautiful traditional Okinawan-style residence dating from the 18th century.
The castle is located in central Okinawa Honto, about 15 kilometers northeast of Naha.
By bus: Take bus number 30 from Naha Bus Terminal to Ishado (伊舎堂, 65 minutes, 760 yen, 2 buses per hour), then walk 30 minutes uphill to the castle.
By car: Take the Okinawa Expressway to the Kita-Nakagusuku Exit (about 20 minutes from central Naha; longer during rush hour), then follow signs for about five minutes to the castle.
How to get to and around Okinawa Honto
Visitor information
Practical details to check before planning this stop.
- Hours
- 8:30 to 18:00 (until 17:00 from October to April)
- Closed
- No closing days
- Admission
- 400 yen (~$2.56)
- English name
- Nakagusuku Castle
- Original name
- Nakagusuku Castle Ruins
Verify details before visiting. Currency conversion is indicative and may vary over time.