Soak Up the Spiritual Past of Okinawa
The Tamagusuku Castle Ruins are a breath of fresh air for those favouring the more off-the-beaten-path approach to travel.
The ruins feature an arch traditionally found in Gusuku—Okinawa-style castles. The characteristic of these ruins is that they are hollowed out from natural rocks.
The Tamagusuku Castle Ruins are one example of a quasi-spiritual spot located in the southeast of the main island of Okinawa.
Built before the establishment of the Ryukyu Kingdom, it is the oldest castle on Okinawa, and legend says that the god Amamikiyo built it herself.
According to legend, Amamikiyo is the god who came from beyond the sea to create Okinawa.
While there are only ruins left in the present, the hike up the hill that the castle was built on does offer some great views of the area.
It also presents a good contrast to the opulent Shuri Castle, showcasing a more traditional “Gusuku” castle.
A site deemed sacred, located within the castle. The exact age of the castle is unknown.
A castle wall that draws a curved form, perfectly aligned to the terrain.
Tamagusuku Castle Ruins
444, Tamagusuku, Nanjo-city, Okinawa
TRENDING
-
The Tattoos that Marked the Criminals of the Edo Period
Traditional tattoos were strong signifiers; murderers had head tattoos, while theft might result in an arm tattoo.
-
The Art of Haruki Nakamura's Paper Toys
This artist draws inspiration from origami to create figurines that unfold or come to life when they are thrown or touched.
-
Shizuka Yokomizo, between Exhibitionism and Surveillance
'Dear Stranger' is the story of a troubling relationship between the photographer and the subject, who meet without seeing each other.
-
The Trendiest ‘Sento’ and Saunas in Tokyo
The bath culture remains vibrant in the capital city, where public baths and saunas designed by renowned architects are continuously opening.
-
Japanese Correspondence Explored in 'Tsubaki Stationery Store'
Ito Ogawa gently narrates the everyday life of Hatoko, who returns to Kamakura to take over the family stationery shop and become a scribe.
