Nakijin Castle (Nakijin-jo)

Overview

Nakijin Castle, also known as Nakijin Gusuku, is a historic Ryukyu castle located on the northern tip of Okinawa Island. It offers stunning views and a glimpse into the island's rich history.

Nakijin Castle was one of the three main castles of the Ryukyu Kingdom and is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Historical Site Cultural Site

Location

Address

5101 Imadomari,, Nakijin, Kunigami, Okinawa

Neighborhood: Imadomari

Coordinates

26.616700, 127.833300

Visiting Information

Opening Hours

monday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

tuesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

wednesday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

friday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

saturday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

sunday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Admission

Adults

¥820

Children

¥310 (elementary and junior high school students)

Best Time to Visit

Overall Best Period

October-December

Best Time of Day

Early morning

fewer crowds and cooler temperatures

Duration Recommendations

Minimum

1 hour

Recommended

2-3 hours

Full Experience

half day

Seasonal Highlights

spring

mild

• cherry blossoms
• mild weather

summer

hot and humid

• extended daylight

autumn

cool and pleasant

• fall colors
• cooler weather

winter

cool and pleasant

• winter sunsets
• cooler weather

Know Before You Go

Essential Information

Book ahead
Bring ID
Check weather

What to Bring

essential

ID water tickets

seasonal

jacket umbrella

not allowed

large bags drones

Health & Safety

Physical Requirements: moderate

• uneven terrain
• stairs

Medical facilities: first aid available

Payment Information

Accepted

cash, cards

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Typical Costs

entry ¥820

parking ¥300

food ¥500-1000

souvenirs ¥1000-3000

Dress Code

casual, comfortable shoes and clothing, walking shoes, inappropriate clothing

Booking Tips

• 1-2 weeks
• official website
• 48 hours
• available

Amenities

Restrooms

Gift shop

Atm

Wifi

Lockers

Wheelchair rental

Stroller rental

On site restaurant

Cafe

Picnic areas

Outside food allowed

Digital Services

Mobile App

Nakijin Castle Guide

Size: 30 MB

Features: Map, Audio guide, Tickets, Historical information

Platforms: iOS, Android

WiFi Zones: Visitor center, Cafe

Charging Stations: Rest areas

How to Reach

From Airport

Nearest: Naha Airport

Distance: 80 km

Travel Time: 1.5 hours

taxi

¥20000-25000 1.5 hours

public_transport

¥1000-1500 2 hours

From City Center

Distance: 25 km

bus

¥500-800 1 hour

taxi

¥8000-10000 30-40 minutes

Local Insights

Cultural Context

Why Locals Love It: Historic importance and cultural significance

Historical Significance: Important events and royal gatherings happened here

Insider Tips

Free entry early morning for locals
Best food at nearby cafes

Local Recommendations

• Try local Okinawan cafe
• Ask for guide

Language Help

Useful Phrases

hello こんにちは (kon'nichiwa)

thank_you ありがとう (arigatou)

where_is どこですか (doko desu ka)

how_much いくらですか (ikura desu ka)

beautiful 素敵です (suteki desu)

ticket チケット (chiketto)

Guide Languages: Japanese, English, Chinese

Photography Guide

Best Photo Spots

Main entrance

Best Time: Golden hour

Tips: Low angle

Result: Great shot of the castle entrance

#NakijinCastle #Okinawa #HistoricalSite

Viewpoint

Best Time: Sunset

Tips: Wide angle

Result: Stunning sunset views

#Sunset #Viewpoint #Nakijin

Photography Rules

allowed areas outdoor areas, viewpoints

prohibited areas restricted sections

flash photography not allowed in some areas

commercial photography permit needed

drone policy prohibited

tripod policy restricted

selfie sticks allowed

Nearby Attractions

Hijichi Isha Site

Distance: 1km

Walking: 15 min

Type: Historical Site

Zakimi Castle

Distance: 10km

Walking: 2 hours