Itokazu Castle Ruins is a castle site in Nanjo City, in the south of Okinawa’s main island.
Under Okinawa’s blue sky, Itokazu Castle Ruins stands quietly on a green, rolling hilltop.
It is a place where Okinawa’s rich history and nature come together beautifully, and it leaves a lasting impression on visitors.
With its imposing walls, stone ramparts and superb natural scenery, Itokazu Castle Ruins appeals not only to history lovers but to anyone visiting Okinawa.
Ratings for Itokazu Castle Ruins
*Ratings are the Okinawa Bookmark editor’s own view, compared with other castles and castle ruins in Okinawa.
Itokazu Castle Ruins at a Glance
| Hours | None in particular |
| Closed | None in particular |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | About 30 minutes |
| Parking | Yes (free) |
| Restroom | None |
| Address | Itokazu, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa |
Itokazu Castle Ruins is a National Historic Site and an important place in Okinawa’s history.
Highlights of Itokazu Castle Ruins
The tomb of the Itokazu Aji
The tomb of the Itokazu Aji, an important figure of the Ryukyu Kingdom era, still remains at Itokazu Castle Ruins.
The castle is said to have been built in the early 14th century by the Itokazu Aji, the third son of the Tamagusuku Aji, on his father’s orders – a must for anyone interested in Okinawan history.
The beautiful stone walls of Itokazu Castle Ruins
Another feature of Itokazu Castle Ruins is its beautifully preserved stone walls.
Built from Ryukyu limestone, these walls carry Okinawa’s traditional building techniques into the present day.
Beautiful views from the hilltop
Itokazu Castle Ruins stands on high ground about 180 m above sea level, and the view from the top is breathtaking.
You can take in the wide landscape of southern Okinawa’s main island in a single sweep.
Neishi Gusuku
Near Itokazu Castle Ruins is Neishi Gusuku.
This old fortress stands about 100 m north of Itokazu Castle Ruins and has a history as the base of the Itokazu Aji.
Site of the Kura Yashiki
Within the grounds of Itokazu Castle Ruins you can also see the site of the Kura Yashiki, once part of a thriving castle town.
The remains of historic buildings, and spaces that let you picture daily life at the time, leave visitors with much to reflect on.
Time needed: about 30 minutes
About 30 minutes is enough to walk around Itokazu Castle Ruins.
It is not a busy tourist spot, so it is rarely crowded.
History of Itokazu Castle Ruins
Itokazu Castle Ruins has played an important part in Okinawa’s history.
The castle is said to have been built in the early 14th century by the Itokazu Aji, the third son of the Tamagusuku Aji, on his father’s orders.
At the time, rival powers were fighting for control of the Ryukyu Islands, and Itokazu is thought to have played a central role.
The site is known as one of the largest gusuku (Okinawan fortresses) in the south of the main island, and its imposing walls still stand today.
The walls of stacked Ryukyu limestone in particular show how advanced building techniques were at the time.
Part of the castle was destroyed during the Battle of Okinawa, but it was later restored, and in 1972 it was designated a National Historic Site.
The designation recognizes the historical and cultural value of Itokazu Castle Ruins as an important heritage site that carries Okinawa’s history into the present.
From Itokazu Castle Ruins you can see all the way to the Kerama Islands, and against that beautiful backdrop you can feel a part of Okinawa’s history.
Standing on the high ground of the ruins, you see the same view the Itokazu Aji must once have looked out on.
Itokazu Castle Ruins is one of the places worth stopping at when you visit the south of Okinawa’s main island.
Its deep history and beautiful scenery offer a valuable chance to connect with Okinawa’s culture and past.
Access & Parking
| Access | About 30 minutes by car from Naha Airport |
| Address | Itokazu, Tamagusuku, Nanjo City, Okinawa |
| Parking | Yes (free) |
| Restroom | None |
There is no signposted car park at Itokazu Castle Ruins, but there is space to park within the grounds.
It is not a busy tourist spot, so parking is rarely a problem.
See the Google Map below for parking.
Nearby Information
Recommended Activities in Nanjo City
Nanjo City has plenty of marine activities to choose from.
You can book diving, snorkeling, SUP and more.
If you would like to enjoy diving or snorkeling, why not see what is available on Viator or GetYourGuide?
Yuinchi Hotel Nanjo
Yuinchi Hotel Nanjo offers reasonable rates and a natural hot spring – a rarity in Okinawa.
On clear days you can also enjoy fine views of the sea from its hilltop setting.
A rental car is the way to go in Okinawa
A rental car is by far the best way to get around the main island of Okinawa.
The places worth seeing are scattered across the island, from Shuri Castle in Naha to the beautiful beaches of the north and American Village in Chatan, so a car lets you get around freely at your own pace. Local buses are infrequent and rarely on time, so having a rental car makes a big difference to your trip.
Popular seasons book up quickly, so reserve early once your dates are set.
Summary
In this article we covered the highlights and history of Itokazu Castle Ruins and how long a visit takes.
Whether you are already in Okinawa or planning a trip, use this article as a guide to experiencing the appeal of Itokazu Castle Ruins.
Make memories to treasure at Itokazu Castle Ruins, where Okinawa’s nature and history are still alive.
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