Nakagusuku Castle was built by the lord Gosamaru using Okinawa's distinctive mortar-free dry-stone technique, and its six interconnected wards are regarded as the finest surviving example of Ryukyuan castle engineering.
Nakagusuku Castle was constructed in the mid-15th century by Gosamaru, a lord and master castle architect who also built Zakimi Castle, using precisely cut limestone blocks fitted together without mortar. The six interconnected wards follow the natural contours of a ridge, giving the castle commanding 360-degree views used both defensively and, today, as one of the best panoramic viewpoints in Okinawa. Gosamaru was besieged and defeated here in 1458 by his rival Amawari of Katsuren Castle, acting on orders that Gosamaru was allegedly plotting rebellion — an episode still recounted in local histories as a tragedy for a loyal, skilled lord.
| Admission | ¥500 ($3.36) adult |
|---|---|
| Hours | 8:30AM-5:30PM daily |
| Address | 553 Nakagusuku, Kitanakagusuku-son, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa 901-2314 |
Why it matters
Considered the most technically advanced gusuku castle for its dry-stone wall construction; UNESCO World Heritage Site
Site facts
- Built
- Circa 1440s by the lord Gosamaru
Location
553 Nakagusuku, Kitanakagusuku-son, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa 901-2314
26.2884, 127.7896 View on map
Highlights
- Six interconnected wards built without mortar
- 360-degree views to both coasts and the Kerama Islands
- Story of the Gosamaru-Amawari rivalry
- UNESCO World Heritage inscription
Frequently asked questions
Who built Nakagusuku Castle?
It was built by the lord Gosamaru in the mid-15th century using Okinawa's mortar-free dry-stone wall technique.
What happened to Gosamaru?
Gosamaru was besieged and killed at Nakagusuku Castle in 1458 by his rival Amawari of Katsuren Castle, following accusations that he was planning a rebellion.