Historical sites in Okinawa Prefecture

Okinawa's Historic Treasures

This collection highlights the architectural and political legacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom through its most significant historical landmarks. It features several UNESCO World Heritage Gusuku sites, including the royal seat at Shurijo Castle and the strategic ruins of Katsuren and Nakijin. The list also encompasses the Tamaudun royal mausoleum and the Toujinbaka memorial on Ishigaki Island, reflecting Okinawa's unique funerary traditions and its complex history of international maritime relations.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

Shurijo Castle

Shuri Castle was a Ryukyuan gusuku castle in Shuri, Okinawa Prefecture, Japan.

kanegen / CC BY 2.0

Katsuren Castle

Katsuren Castle is a Ryukyuan gusuku in Uruma, Okinawa. In 2000, Katsuren Castle was designated as a World Heritage Site, as a part of the…

Dave Wise / CC BY-SA 4.0

Nakijin Castle

Nakijin Castle is a Ryukyuan gusuku located in Nakijin, Okinawa. It is currently in ruins.

Masakazu "Matto" Matsumoto / CC BY 2.0

Zakimi Castle

Zakimi Castle is a Ryukyuan gusuku in Yomitan, Okinawa. It is in ruins, but the walls and foundations have been restored.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

Nakagusuku Castle Ruins

Nakagusuku Castle is a gusuku in the village of Kitanakagusuku, Okinawa, Japan.

663highland / CC BY 2.5

Tamaudun Mausoleum

Tamaudun is one of the three royal mausoleums of the Ryukyu Kingdom, along with Urasoe yōdore at Urasoe Castle and Izena Tamaudun near…

663highland / CC BY 2.5

Toujinbaka

Located on Ishigaki Island, this ornate memorial commemorates Chinese laborers who died following a rebellion aboard the American merchant ship Robert Bowne in 1852. The site features traditional Chinese architecture and overlooks the sea at Kannonzaki.