Must-see Okinawa's UNESCO Heritage sites from Ryukyu Kingdom

Travel back in time at Shuri Castle

The main residence of the Ryukyu Kingdom was Shuri Castle which is located on a hill in the capital of Okinawa, Naha. Shuri Castle is an impressive structure built 120 meters above sea level between the 13th and 14th centuries to look out over the kingdom. The king occupied Shuri Castle personally until 1879 when the Meiji emperor of Japan ended the kingdom and made Okinawa an annex of Japan. Although the original castle was damaged numerous times throughout history, including being burned down during World War II, it was reconstructed in 1992.  Unfortunately, a fire burned some parts of the castle again in 2019. Repairs have began but the castle won't be fully restored until 2026.

Despite the damage, Shuri Castle is still worth a visit if you want to learn about the history of the kingdom; most of the information is provided in English to cater to travelers. As a visitor, you'll be able to stroll through the park, admire the newly-built replica Shuri Castle, and see the walls of the gusuku fortress. Shuri Castle is the ideal starting point for your exploration of Okinawa's UNESCO World Heritage Sites, as it will feel like traveling back in time to the height of the Ryukyu Kingdom.

It's easy to reach Shuri Castle from Naha Airport. First, take Highway 58 north, then turn right at the Tomari Takahashi intersection. Continue on the highway for 10 minutes until you see the sign for Shuri Castle Park.

Feel good energy at the most sacred place in the Ryukyu Kingdom, Sefa-Utaki

Sefa-Utaki is the most sacred site on the island of Okinawa. Legend has it that this site was the origin of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Moreover, it is where the first god, Tedako (the god of the sun), ordered two other gods to land on the Okinawa islands and turn them into prosperous nations. Upon their arrival, the gods established two sacred sites, one of them being Sefa-Utaki.

During the 15th and 16th centuries, religious rites were carried out at the Sefa-Utaki Shrine, but now only rock formations and caves remain at the site. The Ryukyu Kingdom believed that only women had enough power to protect their men, so the sisters and aunts (called Kikoe Ogimi) were enthroned at Sefa-Utaki. Kings would also visit the site to pray for a good harvest each year.

When visiting Sefa-Ukati, you can admire all the interesting rock formations overlooking the sea and even explore some caves. You can also walk through the thick woods and take in the positive energy of this sacred place while appreciating its rich history.

Sefa-Ukati is approximately an hour and a half from Naha Airport by car. Take Highway 329 and then the road that becomes Highway 331. Pass Azama Sun-Sun Beach before taking a right turn at Chinen Post Office. Alternatively, take the Toyo Bus and get off at the Sefa-Ukati stop.

Stroll and unwind at Shikinaen Garden

Shikinaen Royal Garden was created in 1799 and served as the royal family's largest guest house. It was mainly used as a retreat for Chinese diplomatic envoys when they visited Okinawa. But it was also the second residence for the royal family as it is located in Naha and quite close to Shuri Castle. Because of its use for housing foreign diplomats, the residence and surrounding Shikinaen Garden played an important role in the diplomacy of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Unfortunately, the garden was destroyed during World War II but was restored over 20 years, starting in 1975. 

As a visitor, you can stroll through the beautiful gardens while taking in the unique Ryukyu style. This subtle mix of both Japanese and Chinese architecture and landscapes is one of a kind. Tour the premises and enjoy the differences in style and atmosphere that you'll experience. Trees and plants in the royal gardens have been arranged so that there are blossoms in every season. Take your time exploring and make sure to cross the bridge, view the spring, admire the hexagonal Pavillion, and enter the forest garden too.

Shikinaen Garden is 20 - 40 minutes from Naha Airport, depending on your mode of transport. You can drive, take the City Line bus, or the Yui Rail Monorail.

Enjoy a breathtaking view of the surrounding area from castle ruins: 

You can immerse yourself even more in Okinawa history by visiting the ruins of four other castles. Each of these castle ruins is recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. Three of the castles are situated in central Okinawa, and one is found further north. 

Nakagusuku Castle 

Nakagusuku Castle ruins is one of approximately 300 castle ruins found across Okinawa. However, because the ruins have been so well preserved, it is a heritage site. This castle was constructed by Gosamaru in the 15th century and is the second-largest castle in Okinawa. You can take a tour of the Nakagusuku Castle grounds and admire the breathtaking views from the vantage points on the walls. The drive from Naha Airport is about 30 minutes if you take the Okinawa Expressway and get off at Kitanakagusuku interchange.

Katsuren Castle 

Katsuren Castle is one of the oldest castles in Okinawa. It is so old that historians are unsure who built the castle or when exactly it was built. However, Katsuren Castle actively traded with Japan, China, and Korea during the 14th and 15th centuries while it was ruled by Lord Amawari. Take in the full sight of this magnificent castle from the open space in front of it before climbing the stone steps to explore the ruins further. You can reach Katsuren Castle via monorail or bus from Naha Airport. Take Yokatsu Line at the Naha Bus Terminal and then get off at Katsuren Danchimae.

Nakijin Castle 

Nakijin Castle is located in Nago and is one of the top tourist attractions in the area. The castle was originally built in the 13th century as a place of worship. However, recent excavations of the 14-acre castle grounds have uncovered pottery and utensils, indicating that it was part of a trade route between Okinawa and China. When visiting Nakijin Castle ruins, you can see various religious objects across the grounds, such as prayer nooks, the fire-god shrine, and the homes of the sacred maidens who conducted rituals during religious festivals. Nakijin Castle is just under two hours drive from Naha Airport. Take Highway 58 north and then turn left towards Expo park once you reach Nago. 

Zakimi Castle 

Ruins remain of Zakimi Castle, which was built in 1416 by the most famous architect in Okinawa, Gosamaru. He first built Zakimi Castle before going on to build Nakagusuku Castle. This castle was used by the Japanese army as a missile base during World War II but was destroyed in battle. The ruins were formally recognized as a National Treasure by the Japanese government. You can spend some time exploring the castle grounds and taking in the gorgeous views of the countryside. On a clear day, it's possible to see Naha City. Zakimi Castle is about an hour's drive from Naha Airport. Take Highway 58 north towards Nago. After Kadena Circle, turn left onto Route 12 towards Zakimi.

Explore the rich cultural landscape of Okinawa

Each of the 9 UNESCO World Heritage Sites on the island of Okinawa is worth of visit. Japan Airlines can assist you in planning an unforgettable experience for your next trip to Japan. Opt for the Japan Explorer Pass to travel between the islands and for ease of access to public transport to visit these incredible sites.