Nakagusuku Castle

Nakagusuku Castle is one of the most valuable legacies of the Ryukyu Kingdom period and is known as the most intact of all the gusuku castles. The beautifully curved castle walls and the skillful masonry techniques of the time can be seen.

The eastern edge of the hill stretching from the northwest to the south of Nakagusuku Village was used as a natural strategic point, and was located on a hill about 160 meters above sea level, about 2 kilometers away from Yagi Port, which was a trading port.

From the top of the castle walls, one can see the East China Sea to the west, Nakagusuku Bay (Pacific Ocean) to the east, and even the islands offshore.

The main parts of the castle were built in the late 14th century by the Ansei (chiefs who ruled over provinces and villages in the Ryukyu Kingdom period) of Sanchujo, including the south and west sides of the castle, the first and second enclosures.

Later, in 1440, Moriharu Gosamaru, the angler of Zakimi Castle, moved to the castle and added the third and northern walls, completing the castle in its present form.

The castle walls were built using a sophisticated technique known as “aikata-zukuri” (piled up on top of each other). In addition, there are two arched gates in the first wall, and it is believed that the castle gate with the hall at that time was also reconstructed at the same time.

However, in 1458, Gosamaru committed suicide and perished as a result of the trickery of Amawari, who came as a member of the royal army.

After that, this castle was used as the “residence of Prince Nakagusuku,” then as a “guard house” after the Ryukyu invasion, and finally as the “Nakagusuku Village Office” after the abolition of the han system of government.

Chinese celadon wares were discovered in this castle from the late 14th to the early 15th century. Metal and stone bullets thought to be bullets from firearms developed in the Ming Dynasty of China have also been found.