Castle Mountain on Iejima

What is Castle Mountain on Ie Island?

Gusukuyama (城山), a 172-meter-high rock mountain rising slightly east of the center of Iejima, is the symbol of Iejima. In Okinawan dialect, the word "touchu" means "pointy thing," and as the name implies, the steeply rising peak is a sight to behold even from Motobu Peninsula and the surrounding outlying islands.

Places to visit

"Off-Scrape Phenomenon," a globally rare geological feature

Shiroyama is a geologically valuable rock formation formed by the "off-scrape phenomenon," in which an old bedrock is partially detached and placed on top of a new bedrock in the process of being submerged under the new bedrock. It is said that Iejima is the only place in the world where this phenomenon can be observed on the surface of the earth.

360-degree panorama from the top

Climbing the 291 steps from the trailhead, which takes about 15 minutes, you will enjoy a panoramic view of not only the entire Ie Island, but also Motobu Peninsula, Sesoko Island, Mizuna Island, and on clear days, Izena Island and Iheya Island. The spectacular view of the islands floating in the emerald green sea is a treat that only those who climb the mountain can enjoy.

Shiroyama Utaki (Utaki)

Since ancient times, Seongsan has been a sacred place for the islanders to pray for safe voyages, good health, and a good harvest, and Utaki (Utaki) is enshrined at the foot and top of the mountain. The Utaki are enshrined at the foot and at the top of the mountain. It is the spiritual pillar of Ie Island, where local religious beliefs and the mysteries of nature are combined.

As a War Remnant

Ie Island was one of the fierce battlegrounds of the Pacific War, and the remains of the war can still be seen around Seongsan. At the foot of the mountain, there are peace education spots such as "Nutidutakara no Ie (House of Life is Treasure)," making it possible to combine a nature tour with a peace education visit.

Mountain Climbing Information

• Mountain Climbing Time: 15 minutes (30 minutes round trip)
• Number of steps: 291
• Trailhead: Parking lot available (free)
• Clothing**: Comfortable clothes and shoes for walking are required.

Access

• 30 minutes from Motobu Port to Iejima by ferry (disembark at Ie Port)
• From Ie Port to Shiroyama Ascent, 10 minutes by car (rent a car or take a cab)

Points of visit

• Early morning or evening is cooler and easier to climb.
• Take precautions against sunburn, including a hat and water.
• Be careful not to scatter your hat and belongings at the summit due to strong winds.
• Hibiscus and lily season (Lily Festival around GW) is also recommended.