Katsuren Castle Ruins - Okinawa, Japan
Perched high on a steep limestone hill near the coast, Katsuren Castle Ruins immediately stands out against the surrounding landscape. Built in the 13th–14th century, this fortress once played a vital role in maritime trade across the Ryukyu Kingdom. Under Lord Amawari in the early 15th century, it flourished as a powerful trade hub before ultimately being destroyed following his failed rebellion against the Shuri government.
When I arrived at the parking lot across the street from the castle, tickets were purchased inside the Amawari Park museum. Admission to the museum is included with the castle ticket, but I decided to explore the ruins first. It’s only a short walk to the entrance, and although there is a gradual incline, staff operate golf cart-style vehicles to ferry visitors partway up the hill. I chose to walk — the slope didn’t feel too steep, and it gave me the chance to take in the full view of Katsuren Castle rising above the landscape.
Like many of the castles in Okinawa, the limestone terrain is surprisingly tricky underfoot. It’s not slippery, but the porous stone seems to catch the soles of your shoes with every step. I made my way up the stone staircases, passing through impressive curved stone walls, with expanding views of the town below and the ocean stretching out in the distance.
At the summit, you can see the limestone foundations marking where structures once stood. Standing at the top, with sweeping panoramic views and the ocean so close by, it’s easy to understand why this castle became a centre for maritime trade. Its location alone made it both strategic and powerful.
Although the stone walls look climbable — and a few visitors appeared tempted — there are clear signs prohibiting it. Beyond safety concerns, Katsuren Castle Ruins is one of the UNESCO World Heritage–designated castles of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Preserving the original stonework is essential. I walked around every corner of the upper grounds, taking photos from different angles before making my way back down.
Afterward, I returned to the museum and spent more time there than I initially planned. The exhibits include historical displays and detailed ship models that highlight Katsuren’s maritime trade connections. Outside the museum, there’s also a scale model of the castle, which helps visualize how the fortress once looked in its prime. What I thought would be a quick visit turned into a much longer and worthwhile stop — the combination of sweeping views and historical depth made it one of the most memorable castle visits in Okinawa.
History & Background
Katsuren Castle (勝連城) was constructed between the 13th and 14th centuries during the Gusuku period of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Built using locally sourced Ryukyuan limestone, the castle exemplifies the distinctive curved stone walls characteristic of Okinawan fortifications.
The castle rose to prominence under Lord Amawari in the early 15th century. Known for his diplomatic and trade ambitions, Amawari strengthened Katsuren’s position as a maritime trading centre, establishing connections with China, Korea, and Southeast Asia. Its coastal vantage point made it ideally situated for overseeing shipping routes and commerce.
However, Amawari’s growing power led to conflict with the royal government based at Shuri Castle. After a failed rebellion, Amawari was defeated, and Katsuren Castle was subsequently destroyed.
Today, Katsuren Castle Ruins is part of the UNESCO World Heritage Site titled “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu,” recognizing its cultural and historical significance within Okinawa’s unique heritage.
Getting There
Katsuren Castle Ruins is located in Uruma City in central Okinawa. The most convenient way to reach the site is by car, approximately 1 hour from Naha via the Okinawa Expressway and local roads. Free parking is available directly across from the castle grounds at Amawari Park.
By public transportation, visitors can take a bus from Naha Bus Terminal toward the Katsuren area. The closest bus stop is Katsuren Danchimae, which is approximately a 10–15 minute walk to the castle entrance. Bus travel times can range from 1.5 to 2 hours depending on connections. Because bus schedules can be limited, checking current routes in advance is recommended.
Route Overview
Distance: 1.53 km out & back (Katsuren Castle Ruins Parking Lot)
Total elevation gain: 53 m
Duration: 27 min (with breaks 30 min)
Difficulty: Easy
Cost Breakdown
Entrance Fee: Katsuren Castle Ruins — ¥600
Food: ¥200
