Nakagusuku Castle, Medieval castle ruins in Kitanakagusuku, Japan.
Nakagusuku Castle is a hillside castle ruin in Kitanakagusuku featuring six distinct courtyards arranged along the slope. The walls are built from carefully stacked limestone blocks that follow the natural terrain and create different levels of fortification.
The fortress was built in 1440 by Commander Gosamaru and fell to Lord Amawari of Katsuren Castle in 1458 during a military campaign. This shift marked a turning point in regional power dynamics of the Ryukyu Kingdom.
The ruins display how the Ryukyu Kingdom built fortifications by adapting to the hillside, creating spaces where residents and soldiers lived in close quarters. Visitors can see how the layout reflects daily life during that period, with distinct areas for different functions.
The site is accessible during daytime hours and sits on a hillside, so wear sturdy shoes and allow time for climbing. The paths are sometimes steep and shade is limited, so bring plenty of water and sun protection.
Commodore Matthew Perry noted in 1853 that the walls were specifically designed to withstand cannon fire, showing how advanced the builders understood military engineering. His observation from a Western military commander documented the sophisticated defensive design.
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