Katsuren Castle

A Glimpse into the Ryukyu Kingdom’s Glory

Perched atop a hill on the Katsuren Peninsula’s eastern coast in central Okinawa, Katsuren Castle stands as a testament to the grandeur of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Built in the 15th century, this sky castle, with its imposing ramparts clinging to rugged cliffs, was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 as part of the Ryukyu Kingdom Gusuku and Associated Sites.

Majestic Ramparts and Panoramic Vistas

The castle ruins comprise three main enclosures: the North Enclosure, the Central Enclosure, and the South Enclosure. The North Enclosure showcases the grandeur of the Ryukyuan era with its preserved stone walls, while the Central Enclosure houses the remains of the lord’s residence and sacred sites called “utaki.” The South Enclosure, renowned for its breathtaking views of the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean, is a popular spot for enjoying the scenery.

Experiencing Ryukyuan History

Katsuren Castle was constructed by Amahari, the uncle of King Shō Kinpuku, the 10th king of the First Shō dynasty of the Ryukyu Kingdom, in the 15th century. Amahari’s resistance to the establishment of the Second Shō dynasty transformed Katsuren Castle into a battleground. The castle ruins reveal remnants that hint at the fierce battles that once took place.

Highlights of Katsuren Castle

• Stone walls dating back to the Ryukyu Kingdom era
• Remains of the lord’s residence and sacred sites called “utaki”
• Breathtaking panoramic views of the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean
• Relics associated with Amahari

Accessing Katsuren Castle

• Approximately 1 hour by car from Naha Airport
• Approximately 40 minutes by bus from Tedako-ura Station on the Okinawa Urban Monorail

Tours to visit Katsuren Castle

This Castle is one of the castle ruins that are part of Okinawa’s World Heritage Sites. Although the scale is smaller than that of Nakijin Castle Ruins, it is a beautiful castle ruin standing on the seaside.

There is no regular tours to Katsuren Castle. Take one of customizable tours.

The entrance to Katsuren Castle is across the street from the parking lot and small museum.

Katsuren Castle doesn’t have much to offer, but the view of the sea is beautiful.