Find your own Legend to Believe In.

People must find their own legends to believe in for themselves.

Nakagusuku Castle Fortress first came into being in the throngs of a warring period in the 14th century Sengoku period. To its east sits a precariously steep cliff. To its west, sharp and sudden hills sloping as far as the eye can see. These high grounds offer the perfect vantage point for observing your surroundings.

It wouldn’t be until the 15th century when Shō Hashi would unify the main island of Okinawa, bringing an end to the war. He made the base of this new country in Shuri Castle. A man named Gosamaru was stationed at Nakagusuku Castle in order to keep an eye on Katsuren Castle which had been surrounded by rumors of rebellion. A talented castle builder, Gosamaru strengthened the structure of Nakagusuku Castle while observing the movements of Katsuren Castle. However, in the end, Gosamaru got caught up in the schemes of Katsuren’s lord, Amawari, a move which would eventually lead to his own death. Amawari moved quickly and attacked Shuri castle where their rebellion was quickly stomped out and the tables turned.

After this, Nakagusuku became the prince’s living quarters for years until he was forced to move to the Nakagusuku Chambers located in Shuri, which went on to become town hall. Then came the Battle of Okinawa in 1945. While the battle raged on and the island’s castles were reduced to wasteland, by some miracle, over 70% of Nakagusuku Castle remained intact. As a result, Nakagusuku Castle has become a precious remnant of a lost age, “the only remnant of the Ryukyu Kingdom Era.” However, every bit of documentation surrounding Nakagusuku Castle has been lost over time, leaving the true history up to pure conjecture and imagination.

※Chronology
14th century: The construction of Nakagusuku Castle
15th century: Gosamaru builds the Northern District and Third District Extensions
16th century: Nakagusuku is used as the Prince of the Ryukyu Kingdom’s living quarters.
17th century: The status as an Imperial mansion persists.
18th century: The Satsuma Invasion, the abandoned castle is left to the care of the local villagers.
19th century: Perry surveys the area and leaves his sketches behind
20th century: The Battle of Okinawa leaves only the structure of the castle intact