Okinawa, Japan | Katsuren Castle Ruins: Remnants of a Kingdom Standing Tall on the East Coast
The Katsuren Castle Ruins, located on the high ground on the east coast of Okinawa Main Island, are one of the nine World Heritage Sites of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Once the seat of the local power Amawari, its commanding position made it easily defendable and difficult to attack, earning it the nickname "Fortress of the East China Sea."
Climbing the stone steps, one is greeted by graceful, curved walls that follow the undulating terrain, creating a striking contrast against the azure blue sky and sea. From the highest point of the ruins, the view is expansive, encompassing Nakajo Bay and the Pacific Ocean beyond. It's no wonder it once served as a dominant symbol of power.
Katsuuren Castle is not only a strategic military stronghold, but also bears witness to the vicissitudes of history. Legend has it that Amawari rose to power through wisdom and strength, but ultimately fell due to political intrigue and the struggle for royal power. Today, only ruins remain, yet they whisper the story of the dynasty's rise and fall.
