Culture & History #5 of 16 in this area

Ruins of Zakimi Castle

This gusuku was built in the early 15th century by Gosamaru, the Yomitan masseur who was considered a master builder of castles during the Ryukyu Kingdom period. The beautifully curved stone walls and the arched stone gate, said to be the oldest in Okinawa, are magnificent, and the cityscape of Yomitan and the East China Sea can be seen from the ramparts. Admission is free and open 24 hours a day, making it a valuable World Heritage site.

What is Zakimi Castle Ruins?

The ruins of Zakimi Castle, a gusuku (Ryukyuan castle) located in Yomitan Village, central Okinawa Island, is said to have been built in the early 15th century by Gosamaru, a master castle builder, as a fortification against the Kitayama forces.

Places to visit

Beautiful curves of stone walls

The walls of the castle are built in the unique "Aigata-zukuri" style, which is a graceful curve of stonework. The elaborate and beautiful masonry is said to be the best among the castles in Okinawa.

The oldest arched stone gate in Okinawa

The main and second gates are the oldest arched stone gates existing in Okinawa, and the massive stone gate leading into the castle, which consists of two sections, is a must-see.

View from the Castle Wall

Located on a 120-meter-high hill, visitors climbing to the top of the rampart can enjoy a 360-degree panoramic view of the city of Yomitan and the blue East China Sea. The view from the top of the rampart is spectacular, with views as far as Cape Zanba and the Kerama Islands.

Free admission 24 hours a day

Open 24 hours a day with no entrance fee, it is a popular spot for sunset and star gazing.

Adjacent facility, Yuntanza Museum

A museum in Yomitan Village that reopened in June 2018. It has a wide range of exhibits related to Zakimi Castle and the nature, history, and culture of Yomitan. There is also an exhibit of materials on the Battle of Okinawa, which can be used for peace education.

Hours: 9:00 - 18:00 (admission until 17:30)
Closed: Wednesdays, Year-end and New Year holidays
Admission: 500 yen for adults, 300 yen for elementary and junior high school students (village fee applies)

Access

Approximately 1 hour from Naha Airport by car. Approximately 20 minutes from the Ishikawa IC of Okinawa Expressway.

#World Heritage Site #Gusuku #Zakimi #Yomitan Village #Ryukyu Kingdom #History #Castle Ruins #Chubu

Info

4.3 (1,500 reviews) Google

Address: 708-6 Aza-Zakimi, Yomitan-mura, Nakagami-gun, Okinawa, Japan
Opening Hours: Open 24 hours a day, 7 days a week (free admission)
Admission: free
Official Website: Visit Website

Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website for the latest information.

Score

Total Score 68 / 100

* These scores are AI-assessed estimates based on publicly available information. They reflect subjective judgment and may differ from actual conditions.