28 Apr 2013

Katsuren Castle Ruins

Ten Generation Haven of the Peninsula Lords

Oleh Michael Flemming

Community writer

The lower 4th Enclosure of Katsuren Castle Ruins is not as restored as the fully walled enclosures above it

Katsuren Castle Ruins as seen from the visitors center

This partially restored wall of the 4th Enclosure leads to what was once the East Enclosure

The path leading to the 3rd Enclosure now has a wooden walkway

Katsuren Peninsula as seen from the entrance to the 3rd Enclosure

There are beautiful ocean, bay, peninsula and inland views in all directions

The 1st Enclosure at the top of the castle was believed to be a safekeep for the lord's treasure

The East Enclosure seen in the wooded hilltop beyond the numbered enclosures is one area of the Katsuren Castle Ruins that has not been restored

White limestone atop aged and worn sections of the ruins signal that the restoration continues

The 4th Enclosure is the lowest portion of Katsuren Castle Ruins

A steep journey through time awaits visitors to Katsuren Castle Ruins

A model rendition of the castle on display in the visitors center shows the East Enclosure on the far left, the 4th Enclosure in the lower middle, the 3rd Enclosure slightly below the palace on the 2nd Enclosure, and the 1st Enclosure on the far right

Artifacts recoverd from the castle ruins are on display in the visitors center

Pottery recovered from the castle ruins are on display in the visitors center

Pick up a brochure at the visitors center before walking the castle grounds

Amawari was the 10th lord of Katsuren Castle when he was abruptly killed in a politically charged spat with the rival lord of Nakagusuku Castle and the King of Shuri Castle. The 15th Century castle is in ruins although the walls of most of its five enclosures are restored. This castle must be scaled in athletic or hiking shoes as it towers above Katsuren Peninsula and the surrounding area along a steep road followed by jagged and slippery limestone walkways. Katsuren Caste Ruins is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and Japanese National Historical Site. Get to the site by driving east along Route 16 from Route 329 in Okinawa City, or ride bus 27 or bus 52 from the Naha or Yakena (Uruma City) terminals.