Zakimi Castle

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Facts & Figures

Zakimi Castle (Zakimi-jo Gusuku) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site (part of the Gusuku sites and related properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu) on the island Okinawa. The fortified castle ruins are located on a hill 125 meters above sea level. The beautiful stone-built walls (up to 10m high), two inner courts, arched gates and the foundation of the manor are the only remains of the gusuku fortress. The top of the walls are accessible and offer magnificent views of the ocean. Dont worry for falling down. The upper part of the wall has a width of 4 meters. Since 2004 I have traveled nearly every year to Japan. The rail pass made my life easier to discover all those amazing places in my favorite country.
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• Zakimi Castle:
• Opening Hours - every day 24hrs
• Admission Fee - free

• Yomitan Village History Folklore Museum:
• Opening Hours - 9:00 am to 5:00 pm (last entrance 4:30 pm)
• Closed - on national holidays, every Monday, over New Year
• Admission Fee - 200 yen

My tips for local activities

How about exploring the highlights and hidden gems of the fascinating city Naha (capital of Okinawa prefecture) with a local guide. Check out this page > for more details.

History

Zakimi Castle was built by the famous general Gosamaru from 1416 till 1422. Gosamaru played a big role in unifying Okinawa into one Ryukyu Kingdom. After World War 2 the area was controlled by the US Army. In 1972 the castle was handed over to the Japanese gouvernment. In 2000 Zakimi Castle was registered as a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Sightseeing spots

Top:

Visior Center and Yomitan Village History Folklore Museum - learn more about the history of Ryukyu Kingdom and Zakimi Castle, on display are over 400 000 items, entrance fee is 200 yen

Festival & Events (dates can change without notice)

October

Fureai Festival (25th of October)
This popular street festival is held at the Zakimi Castle Ruins at the center of Yomitan Village. Enjoy the Okinawan folk music, dance performances and the fantastic food.