The Katsuren Castle Ruins (勝連城跡, Katsurenj-ato) is located on a high hill near the seashore and provides beautiful countryside views below.
The ancient castle’s stone walls and foundations are all that remain. The site is one of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s UNESCO World Heritage-listed Castles. Katsuren Castle was known as Lord Amawari’s residence in the 15th century.

Amawari was a sickly infant who was abandoned in the mountains to die, according to folklore. On the other hand, the boy lived and grew into a formidable leader. Who battled a tyrannical ruler and took over Katsuren Castle.

Getting there and around

The Katsuren Castle Ruins are located in central Okinawa Honto, near Naha, on the Yokatsu Peninsula, which juts out to the island’s east.

By bus

Take bus number 52 from Naha Bus Terminal to Katsurenjōato-mae (勝連城跡前, 100 minutes, 1260 yen, 1-2 buses/hour). Castle ruins are reacheble in a five-minute walk. Alternatively, you can take bus number 27 to Nishihara bus stop (西原, 1-2 buses/hour). The bus ride takes 20 minutes longer and the bus stop is a ten-minute walk from the castle ruins.

Hours and Fees

Hours: Always open
Closed: No closing days
Admission: Free
Typical Visit Duration: 30-45 minutes