The Complete Guide to the Gushikawa Castle Ruins (Itoman City)! History, Access, and Explanations of the Differences from Kumejima and Uruma City
The Charms of the “Gushikawa Castle Ruins” in Itoman City
The Complete Guide
The southernmost point of the main island of OkinawaHave you heard of the “Gushikawa Castle Ruins,” located near Cape Kyan?
The castle walls built on a sheer cliff and the breathtaking scenery, with the sea surrounding it on three sides, areOnce you see it, you'll never forget it.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
In this column, we’ll take an in-depth look at the history and highlights of the Gushikawa Castle Ruins in Itoman City, as well as the mystery surrounding the existence of castles with the same name on Kume Island and in Uruma City!
◆For those interested in Okinawa's history or the Ryukyu Kingdom
◆For those looking for scenic spots overlooking the ocean
◆For those who want to know the differences between Kumejima and the Gushikawa Castle Ruins in Uruma City
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Basic Information on the Gushikawa Castle Ruins
The ruins of Gushikawa Castle are located in Kyan Gushikawara, Itoman City, Okinawa Prefecture, at an elevation of approximately17 mIt is built on top of a cliff.
Nationally Designated Historic SiteEven so, it still doesn't attract many visitors, and it's quietly gaining popularity as a hidden gem.
First, let's start with the basic information you'll want to know before you visit, such as directions and parking!
Must-See Tourist Spots in Itoman City
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A popular tourist spot in southern Okinawa
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Location and Directions
The ruins of Gushikawa Castle are located near the southernmost tip of the main island of Okinawa.Cape KyanRight next to it.
Since there are some sections of narrow road leading to the site,rent-a-carI recommend taking your time on the way there!
As for public transportation, since the regular bus routes have been discontinued, the Itoman City Community Bus, which operates by reservation, “Itochin mini"You can also use [...].
Access: 35 minutes by car from Naha Airport
◆ Parking: Free parking available (approx. 10 spaces)
You can take it from Naha Airport!
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Is there a parking lot?
At the ruins of Gushikawa Castle,Free ParkingThe roads are well-maintained, so you can drive there with confidence.
The number of units isAbout 10 unitsSince it isn't that big, it might get a little crowded during the season.
I’ve heard there used to be problems with street parking, so be sure to use the parking lot, andConsideration for NeighborsI’d like to be sure to visit there, too.
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how to read
By the way,Kumejima and Uruma CityThe historic site of the same name located there is also read as “Gushikawa-jō-ato.”
The fact that they are pronounced the same way is likely one of the reasons these three castles are so closely connected.
Points to Keep in Mind During Your Visit
◆In the grasshubThere may be some
Since the Gushikawa Castle Ruins are a historic site surrounded by natural cliffs, if you are visiting with small children, please be careful near the cliffs.Don't take your eyes off itPlease be very careful.
It can get slippery, especially on rainy or windy days, soComfortable sneakersWe recommend visiting there.
The History of the Gushikawa Castle Ruins
At the ruins of Gushikawa Castle, there is a legend associated with an Aji who fled from KumejimaAn Interesting Legendare left behind.
Although the exact date of the castle’s construction is unknown,Based on the artifacts foundYou'll get a sense of the historical context.
From here on, let’s explore the history and legends surrounding this castle (in Itoman City).
Experience Tradition and History
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The Legend of the Castle's Construction and the Lord's Escape
According to legend, he was the lord of Gushikawa Castle on Kume IslandMagane-go Ajis(Makane Kui Aji) is said to have been conquered and overthrown by Manikutaru, the second son of the Lord of Ishiki.
Having narrowly escaped from Kumejima, the Ajis crossed the sea andKyan in the southern part of Okinawa IslandI managed to escape there.
It is said that he built a castle here (in Itoman City) with the same name as the one in his hometown—"Gushikawa Castle."
Findings from the Archaeological Excavation
During the archaeological excavation,From the 13th to the 15th centuryChinese ceramics have been unearthed.
Based on this, it is possible that Gushikawa Castle, albeit for a short period, was somehow involved in overseas trade at that time.
Although much remains unclear regarding the exact number of years the castle served as a residence, the artifacts unearthed there provide insight into the history of the Nanbu region prior to the establishment of the Ryukyu Kingdom.A valuable clueThe first two are the following.
Value as a Nationally Designated Historic Site
Due to its great historical significance, the ruins of Gushikawa Castle,National Historic SiteThe name is designated in the
The dry-stone wall built along the cliff face serves as a testament to the castle-building techniques of that era.Valuable Archaeological RemainsIt is.
The east gate of the castle isCut-stone masonryIt is constructed in such a way that it skillfully makes use of the natural topography, which is one of its distinctive features.
Highlights of the Gushikawa Castle Ruins
The appeal of the Gushikawa Castle Ruins goes beyond just the historical remains.
Spectacular views unique to a seaside location, as well as the natural beauty created by natureMysterious LandformsThat's another highlight!
Here, especially in the local area,Points to Noteto the following.
For recommended sightseeing spots on the main island of Okinawa
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Squirting Hole (Su Fu Chi)
Inside the castle, there is"Su Fu-chi"There is a natural hole, known as [...], that leads to the ocean.
Locally, this blowhole is also known as “Heifuchimi,” and due to the force of the waves,The tide surges upwardSometimes we just wait and see how things go.
One of the unique charms of this place is that the view changes depending on when you visit!
A spectacular location overlooking the ocean
The Gushikawa Castle Ruins, excluding the area near the east gate,Surrounded by the ocean on three sidesIt is surrounded by [...], making it a prime location with a panoramic view of the Pacific Ocean.
On a clear day, you can see all the way to the horizon, andphotographyIt's the perfect spot for that, too!
The historic atmosphere of the castle ruins, and,OpenThe appeal is that you can enjoy both the sea and the scenery at the same time.
Enjoy the Okinawan seas to the fullest!
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Dry-stacked stone wall
Natural stones were stacked along the cliff."Open-Air Stacking"The stone walls are also one of the highlights.
A technique that involves combining natural stones with minimal processing,Simple yet powerfulIt makes an impression.
These stone walls, which have retained their original appearance even after so many years, are a valuable clue to understanding the Ryukyu culture of castle construction!
Kumejima and Uruma City’s
How is it different from the Gushikawa Castle Ruins?
Actually, there is another historic site called “Gushikawa Castle” in Okinawa Prefecture besides the one in Itoman City.
Kumejima and Uruma CityThere are also castle ruins with the same name in each of these places, and they are often confused with one another.
Here, let’s take a closer look at the connections between the three Gushikawa Castles!
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Popular Tours Around Uruma City
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Three Things the Three Gushikawa Castles Have in Common
Size and Stone Wall Construction MethodsThey are also similar, and experts have long pointed out the connection between them.
especiallyItoman City and KumejimaAs for the castle, a clear connection is described in the legend of the Ajis’ escape.
That said, the exact relationship among the three sites—including Gushikawa Castle in Uruma City—remains unclear at this time.It has not been clarified.The following is a list of the most common problems with the "C" in the "C" column.
Differences in Size and Location
EachSize and LocationThe differences are as follows.
・Located on the island's northwest coast
・It was used as the residence of the Ajis
・Many artifacts, such as celadon and blue-and-white porcelain, have been unearthed.
(in Japanese history)Nankai Trading(You can feel its history)
◆The Ruins of Gushikawa Castle in Uruma City
・Located along the coast of the Katsuren Peninsula
・Locally, it's known as “Gushichagusk"It is also known as"
◆The Ruins of Gushikawa Castle in Itoman City
・The location with the greatest exposure to the ocean
interpoint (interword separation)scenic spotIts appeal as [...], stands out
Why Are There Three Castles with the Same Name?
There is another castle with the same name, “Gushikawa,” that3 locationsThe reason why it exists has not yet been fully elucidated.
While legends about the escape of the Ajis are told in Itoman City and on Kumejima, no historical records confirm a connection to Gushikawa Castle in Uruma City.
This is also considered an interesting topic in gusuku research, and furtherNew FactsYou might understand that.
Places to Enjoy Along with the Gushikawa Castle Ruins
Recommended Activities
Since you've gone to the trouble of traveling all the way to the southern part of Okinawa Island, be sure to check out not only the Gushikawa Castle Ruins but also the nearby activitiesI want to have fun togetherThat's the thing.
Something unique to this area, where the water is crystal clearA Rich Range of ExperiencesI am, you know.
Here are some recommended activities you can enjoy while you're here!
You absolutely can't miss this!
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About Tours in Southern Okinawa
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Snorkeling Tour
The waters off the southern part of Okinawa Island are exceptionally clear, andsnorkelingIt's also the perfect area for that.
There are also many tours available where you can observe colorful tropical fish and coral reefs up close!
for beginnersThere are plenty of plans to choose from, so why not give it a try?
Recommendation
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Snorkeling Tours in Southern Okinawa
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parasailing
You can enjoy a panoramic view of the waters off Okinawa from high in the skyparasailingIt's also a popular activity in the southern area!
The exhilarating feeling of being gently lifted into the sky by a boat is unlike anything else.Special ExperiencesIt is.
It might be interesting to take in the spectacular ocean view from the Gushikawa Castle Ruins—this time from the air.
Recommendation
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Parasailing Tours in Southern Okinawa
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Southern Okinawa Walking Tour
There are also several historical and scenic spots scattered around the ruins of Gushikawa Castle.
For those without a rental carIt's also convenient to take a walking tour that takes you to all of these places!
With a guided tour, you'll also learn about the local historical contextmore deeplyYou can find out, can't you?
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On a walking tour of southern Okinawa
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Regarding the Gushikawa Castle Ruins (Itoman City)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
It is read as “Gushikawa-jōato.” Since there are other historic sites with the same name in Okinawa Prefecture—such as on Kume Island and in Uruma City—be careful not to confuse them.
無料駐車場が10台程度整備されています。以前は路上駐車のトラブルもあったため、必ず駐車場を利用しましょう。
3つの城はいずれも海岸沿いに築かれた似た構造を持ちますが、糸満市の具志川城跡は久米島から逃れた按司の伝説を持ち、海への露出度が最も高い点が特徴です。うるま市の具志川城との関連は史料上確認されていません。
summary
糸満市の具志川城跡は、久米島から逃れた按司の伝説と、三方を海に囲まれた絶景を併せ持つ魅力的な史跡It is.
久米島やうるま市にも同名の城が存在し、それぞれの関係性は今も謎に包まれています。
歴史のロマンと大自然の絶景を一度に味わえる、沖縄本島南部ならではのOff-the-beaten-track spotとしてぜひ訪れてみてくださいね！
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