Katsuren Castle Stronghold of Lord Amawari.

The hilltop fortress where the rebellious hero Amawari once reigned.

Katsuren Castle Ruins is a Ryukyuan gusuku (castle) site located in Uruma City, Okinawa. Built during the 13th to 14th centuries, the castle flourished in the mid-15th century as the stronghold of the lord Amawari, a heroic ruler beloved by his people. His story is passed down through the traditional Ryukyuan performance art known as Kumiodori, in the piece "Nidou Tekiuchi." In 2000, it was inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site as part of the "Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu."

The castle ruins are situated on a hilltop in Uruma City, consisting of four enclosures (kuruwa) connected in sequence from the First to the Fourth. From the highest point at the First Enclosure, a magnificent panorama unfolds with views of both the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean simultaneously. On clear days, you can see as far as Ikei Island and Henza Island. Recent archaeological excavations have unearthed numerous trade goods from China, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, drawing attention as an important site that tells the story of Ryukyu's maritime trade history.

Near Katsuren Castle, the approximately 4.7 km-long "Kaichu Road" stretches across the sea, offering a thrilling drive route above the water. The outlying islands beyond Kaichu Road, including Hamahiga Island, Miyagi Island, and Ikei Island, can easily be combined into your itinerary. The "Central Gusuku Course (6-8 hours)" paired with Nakagusuku Castle is one of our most requested routes.

From the First Enclosure, a stunning view spans both the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

Highlights of Katsuren Castle

Katsuren Castle is built on four levels, from the Fourth Enclosure at the entrance up to the First Enclosure at the summit, and the stone masonry grows visibly more refined as you climb. From the top, a 360-degree view opens up, with the East China Sea and the Pacific Ocean visible at the same time.

Recent excavations have uncovered celadon, white porcelain and West Asian glassware, all evidence of the castle's role as a maritime trade hub. Some of these finds are displayed at the Uruma City Katsuren Castle Ruins Exhibition Hall, which is well worth a stop alongside the ruins themselves. About 10 minutes by car from the site lies the 4.7 km Kaichu Road, and many visitors enjoy pairing the castle with a drive across the sea to the outer islands.

Kaichu Road: a 4.7 km drive route stretching across the sea.

Exquisitely crafted Ryukyuan stone walls. Four enclosures shape the hillside.

Getting to Katsuren Castle by Taxi

The estimated fare for Naha to Katsuren Castle (3-4 hours) starts from ¥18,600 (tax included, expressway tolls separate). The "Central Gusuku Course (6-8 hours)" combined with Nakagusuku Castle starts from approximately ¥37,200. The "Uruma Full Course (8 hours)" including Kaichu Road and island driving is available from ¥49,600. Allow about 1 to 1.5 hours for exploring the castle ruins. Wear comfortable walking shoes as there are many slopes and stairs.

Admission is ¥600 for adults and ¥400 for children, and the site is open year-round. Visiting first thing in the morning means fewer crowds, giving you the castle practically to yourself. Your driver will wait at the parking lot, so you can explore at your own pace.

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