| Nakijin Castle | |
|---|---|
今帰仁城 | |
| Nakijin, Okinawa in Japan | |
 | |
| Coordinates | 26°41′27″N 127°55′49″E / 26.69083°N 127.93028°E |
| Type | Gusuku |
| Site information | |
| Open to the public | Yes |
| Condition | Ruins |
| Website | www |
| Site history | |
| Built | early 14th century |
| Built by | Haniji |
| In use | 14th century – 1609 |
| Materials | Ryukyuan limestone, wood |
| Battles/wars | Invasion of Hokuzan (1416) Invasion of Ryukyu (1609) |
| Garrison information | |
| Past commanders | Shō Kokushi |
| Occupants | Kings of Hokuzan, Wardens of Hokuzan, Aji of Nakijin Magiri |
| Criteria | Cultural: ii, iii, vi |
| Reference | 972 |
| Inscription | 2000 (24th Session) |
Nakijin Castle (今帰仁城, Nakijin Gusuku, Kunigami: Nachijin Gushiiku, Okinawan: Nachijin Gushiku) is a Ryukyuan gusuku located in Nakijin, Okinawa. It is currently in ruins. In the late 14th century, the island of Okinawa consisted of three principalities: Nanzan to the south, Chūzan in the central area, and Hokuzan in the north. Nakijin was the capital of Hokuzan. The fortress includes several sacred Utaki groves, reflecting the castle's role as a center of religious activity. It is today known for the Hikan cherries which bloom in northern Okinawa between mid-January and early February, providing the first cherry blossoms each year in Japan. In 2000, Nakijin Castle was designated as a World Heritage Site, as a part of the Gusuku Sites and Related Properties of the Kingdom of Ryukyu.