The Katsuren Castle Ruins (Katsuren-jo Site), located in the central part of Okinawa Island, is a Historic Fortress (“Gusuku”) where you can gaze out at the blue sea and sky from its elevated position.
Upon reaching the summit, a Stunning 360-Degree Panorama Unfolds, allowing you to fully enjoy the expansive views.
Furthermore, the Castle Walls, which feature Gentle, Rhythmic Curves, are as beautiful as a work of art.
Directly nearby is “Amawari Park,” a Historical and Cultural Facility where you can enjoy learning about the region’s past through immersive videos and exhibits.
During the Ryukyu Kingdom era, Katsuren Castle flourished through extensive maritime trade.
Its most famous lord, the Hero Amawari, left his mark on history as a powerful figure who even posed a threat to the Shuri Royal Government.
In this article, we will introduce the history and highlights of the Katsuren Castle Ruins in an easy-to-understand way.
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Katsuren Castle Ruins: Features and Highlights
- What is Katsuren Castle Ruins? Stunning Castle Walls and Breathtaking Views!
- A World Heritage Site! One of Okinawa’s Proudest Gusuku (Castles)
- When Was Katsuren Castle Built?
- Who was Lord “Amawari”? The Hero Who Intimidated the Shuri Government
- Learn History Through Fun at “Amawari Park,” Historical and Cultural Facility
What is Katsuren Castle Ruins? Stunning Castle Walls and Breathtaking Views!
Katsuren Castle Ruins are the remains of a Gusuku (Castle) built during the Ryukyu Kingdom Era.
Although no buildings remain today, the magnificent stone walls still stand strong.
The smooth, curving lines of the castle walls are incredibly beautiful and truly captivate everyone who sees them!
Looking up from below, the structure looks just like a work of art.
When you climb to the very top, you can enjoy a 360-Degree Panoramic View.
You can look out over the islands scattered across the Pacific Ocean and see as far as Nakagusuku Bay in the distance.
It is truly a breathtaking sight!
A World Heritage Site! One of Okinawa’s Proudest Gusuku (Castles)
Katsuren Castle Ruins was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2000 as part of the “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Ryukyu Kingdom.”
The castle walls and the view from the highest point are so beautiful that the site is frequently used for filming music videos and other productions.
Furthermore, the legend of the Castle Lord, Amawari, makes it a historically fascinating Gusuku.
When Was Katsuren Castle Built?
It is believed that Katsuren Castle was constructed around the 12th or 13th century.
At that time, Okinawa was divided into several regions, each ruled by a Leader known as an “Aji,” who maintained their own castle.
Among these, Katsuren Castle flourished from an early stage and was the residence of the famous hero “Amawari,” whom I will introduce later.
Who was Lord “Amawari”? The Hero Who Intimidated the Shuri Government
Amawari was the Lord of Katsuren Castle around the 15th century.
He was highly intelligent and focused his efforts on overseas trade, bringing great prosperity to the town of Katsuren.
In many historical records, Amawari is portrayed as a “Traitor” who betrayed the Shuri Royal Government.
However, later research has revealed that he was actually Regarded as a Wise and Virtuous Leader.
While the truth remains a mystery, I believe Amawari was a hero.
I feel this way because it’s hard to imagine anyone but a true hero bringing such prosperity to the people of Katsuren.
Pondering these different perspectives is part of the “Romance of History” that makes visiting such sites so fascinating!
What do you think? Was Amawari a Traitor or a Hero?
Learn History Through Fun at “Amawari Park,” Historical and Cultural Facility
Right next to the Katsuren Castle Ruins is a Historical and Cultural Facility called “Amawari Park.”
Opened in 2021, this facility allows visitors to enjoy learning about the history and culture of Katsuren Castle through immersive videos and various exhibits.
Katsuren Castle Ruins: Basic Info, Fees, Parking, and Access
- Basic Information
- Fees & Estimated Time Required
- Access
- Parking
Basic Information
| Name | Katsuren Castle Ruins |
| Photo |  |
| Address | Amawari Park: 3807-2 Katsurenhaebaru, Uruma, Okinawa |
| Official Website | Katsuren Castle Ruins |
| Tel | 098-978-2033 |
| Hours | 9:00am–6:00pm *Last entry 30 minutes before closing |
| Closed | Open Year-Round |
| Fee | Katsuren Castle Ruins + Permanent Exhibition Room: ・Adults: 600 yen ・Children: 400 yen Permanent Exhibition Room Only: ・Adults: 400 yen ・Children: 200 yen |
| Parking | Free |
| Access | When using the expressway: Approximately 30 minutes from Okinawa-kita IC |
| Description | ・A castle site featuring breathtaking 360-degree views and beautiful stone walls. ・Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site. |
Fees & Estimated Time Required
Admission Fee is 600 yen for adults and 400 yen for children.
- Adults (High School Students and older): 600 yen
- Children (Elementary and Junior High Students): 400 yen
- Children Under 6: Free
Estimated Time Required
Katsuren Castle Ruins only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
Katsuren Castle Ruins + Amawari Park: 1.5 to 2 hours
- Quick Visit: 30 minites・・・・・・・・
- Leisurely Visit: 1 hour
Access
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