Nakagusuku Castle is one of the many castles built in Okinawa during the Ryukyu Kingdom. Located 150 to 170 meters above the sea level, the castle is divided into six enclosures and it has beautiful curving lines that harmonize well with the landscape. It is not sure who built the castle and who lived in it first, but we know that it was used as a fortress in 15th century by Lord Gosamaru to defend against Lord Amawari of Katsuren Castle. This castle was also briefly utilized during WWII by the Japanese army who tried to build a air-raid shelter. However, the site was quickly abandoned due to the poor resistance of the stonewalls. Three techniques were used to lay the stones of the castle walls: the Nozura, the Nunozumi and the Aikata techniques. Commodore Perry, who visited the castle in 1853, wrote the following about the walls: "The material used to build the fortress is limestone and the masonry is an admirable construction. The stones are processed in a very interesting way and are carefully shaped and jointed, even thought cement or mortar is not used. I think this work will last for a long time". Among the ruins, it is possible to find a Kanjaagama, a workplace for blacksmiths were ironworks were practiced, probably to make weapons to fight Lord Amawari. There is also a worship area inside the castle ruins, with eight sacred places for prayers that are still used nowadays. The castle was added to UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2000 and it is regarded as one of the 100 most famous castles in Japan. Admission Adults: 400 yen Teenagers: 300 yen Children: 200 yen Opening Hours October to April 8:30 - 17:00 May to September 8:30 - 18:00 TEL 098 - 935 - 5719 Address Nakagusuku Castle Ruins, 503 Ogusuku, Kitanakgusuku, Nakagami District, Okinawa Prefecture 901-2314 Near Nakagusuku Castle Ruins:
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