The Zakimi Castle Ruins were inscribed on the World Heritage List in 2000 as part of the “Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.”
In 2017, the castle (gusuku) was also selected as one of the “Continued Top 100 Japanese Castles.” It is said to have been built approximately 600 years ago, in the early 15th century, by Gosamaru, the Aji of Yuntanza.
While many castles (gusuku) in Okinawa are situated on solid ground formed from Ryukyu limestone, the ground at Zakimi Castle consists of soil. Consequently, the foundations of the castle walls were constructed with broad bases dug into the earth. By curving the walls in arch-like forms that follow the natural terrain, stability was ensured, creating a structure resistant to collapse.
Of particular note are the wedge stones set into the arched stone gates.
A long, narrow triangular wedge stone is embedded in the upper center of the gate leading to the Second Enclosure, while a square stone is embedded in the gate leading to the First Enclosure—a distinctive feature not found in other gusuku.
Although some sections of the current castle walls have been restored, the stone arch gate at the entrance to the Second Enclosure remains largely in its original condition and is believed to be the oldest surviving stone arch gate in Okinawa.
Although the Zakimi Castle Ruins are medium-sized among Okinawan gusuku, the curved castle walls, built using construction techniques developed some 600 years ago, are structurally robust and highly effective for defense. The expansive views from atop the walls are also one of the site’s highlights.
The adjacent Yuntanza Museum introduces the Zakimi Castle Ruins through exhibits and scale models. A visit there before exploring the gusuku is an excellent way to deepen your understanding of the site.