A Guide to Getting to the Uejō Castle Ruins on Kumejima! A Comprehensive Guide Covering Everything from How to Pronounce the Name to Parking and History
What Are the Ruins of Uejō Castle on Kumejima?
A Comprehensive Guide to Getting There, Parking, and History
The Uegusuku Castle Ruins are located at the summit of Mt. Uegusuku, the highest peak on Kume Island.Nationally Designated Historic SiteThese are the ruins of a gusuku.
In this column, we'll provide an easy-to-understand explanation of everything from how to read the signs and the history of the area to how to get there by car and what to keep in mind regarding parking.
You'll learn all the key points you need to know before you visit!
◆ For those who want to learn about the pronunciation and history of the Uejō Castle Ruins in an easy-to-understand way
◆ For those who want to enjoy scenic spots and historical sites on Kumejima
◆ For those who also want to visit nearby tourist attractions, such as the ruins of Gushikawa Castle
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How to Pronounce "Uejō Castle Ruins" and Basic Information
The Uejō Castle Ruins are among the gusuku sites in Okinawa PrefectureThe Highest PointThis is a mountain castle located in [location]. First, I’ll go over the pronunciation, location, its connection to surnames, and other basic information you’ll want to know before visiting, in that order.
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How to Pronounce "Uejō Castle Ruins" and the Location of Mount Uejō
"Uegusuku Castle Ruins" is pronounced "Uegusuku-jō-ato." It is sometimes referred to as "Uegusuku Gusuku."
The castle ruins are located at,Elevation: approximately 310 metersThis is the summit of Mount Uegusuku. Towering over the mountainous region in the northern part of Kume Island, it is the island’s highest peak, and its presence is so striking that even when looking up from the base, the ruins of a castle can be seen atop the mountain.
Since you can see almost the entire island from the summit, it’s the perfect spot to get a sense of Kumejima’s topography.
Connection to the Uejō Surname
"Uejō" is a name that is also commonly seen as a surname in Okinawa. There are many surnames in Okinawa derived from place names, and "Uejō" is one of them.Derived from a place nameIt is said that...
However, there are various theories regarding the connection between the castle ruins and a specific clan. For now, it’s enough to simply be aware that “the place name is also the family name.”
If you ever meet someone named “Uejō,” it might be fun to think back to these castle ruins on Kumejima.
Basic Information on the Uejō Castle Ruins (Location and Estimated Visit Duration)
Admission is freeIt is now a historic site that is open to the public.
It takes about 25 to 30 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport and about 30 minutes by car from Kaneshiro Port. For your visit, it’s a good idea to allow about 30 to 40 minutes to take a leisurely stroll around the mountaintop and fully enjoy the scenery.
Since the scenery depends heavily on the weather, we recommend planning your visit for a sunny day.
Access: 21 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport
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The History of the Uejō Castle Ruins
The ruins of Uejō Castle convey the history of the era when the Ryukyu Kingdom was unifying the islands.Precious Historic SiteIt is.
Let’s take a closer look at the history behind its construction, the characteristics of its stonework, and how it differs from the ruins of Gushikawa Castle.
Perfect for exploring castle ruins!
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The Background to the Construction of the Uejō Castle Ruins
There are no records indicating when it was built, so the exact date remains unclear. The eldest son of the Chinaha Ajis,Kume Nakagusuku AjisIt is said to have been built by (Kumenaka Gusuku Aji) and served as a base for governing Kume Island.
It is said that the kingdom was subsequently conquered around 1510 (though some sources suggest 1506) by the forces of King Shō Shin of the Second Shō Dynasty, who was working to unify the Ryukyu Islands.
Once you actually climb to the top of the mountain, you'll understand why the castle was built there, overlooking the island.
Characteristics of Castle Ruins Revealed by Stone Masonry
The stonework of the castle walls was constructed using slab-shaped andesite quarried locally.Open-Air Stacking...is the main feature. Near the entrance (tiger’s mouth) to the first bailey, you can also see cut blocks of coral limestone.
During the archaeological excavation, numerous pieces of Chinese ceramics, such as celadon bowls and plates, were unearthed. These are valuable clues that indicate Kumejima was connected to overseas trade.
Although there are only a few scattered stone walls remaining today, signs marking “First Enclosure” and “Second Enclosure” allow visitors to walk while imagining what the site was like in the past. It was designated a National Historic Site in 2009.
Differences from the Gushikawa Castle Ruins
In addition to the Uejō Castle Ruins, Kumejima is also home to the Gushikawa Castle Ruins. The Uejō Castle Ruins are located on a mountaintop that overlooks the entire island, “Yamashiro"."
The ruins of Gushikawa Castle, on the other hand, were built on a cliff surrounded by the sea on three sides, and the ocean views are a major attraction.
According to legend, the younger brother of Kume Nakajo, the lord who built Ue Castle, is said to have driven the lord of Gushikawa Castle off the island. If you visit both castles, you’ll gain a much richer understanding of the history of Kume Island’s castles.
Directions to the Uejō Castle Ruins
The ruins of Uejō Castle are,Right near the summitYou can drive there.
Since the mountain roads are narrow, be sure to allow plenty of time when driving there in a rental car.
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Route from Kumejima Airport by Rental Car
By car from Kumejima AirportAbout 25 to 30 minutesThis is a rough guide. If you follow the road signs, you’ll reach the castle ruins at the top of a narrow mountain road.
Please drive slowly and exercise extreme caution when passing oncoming vehicles. Since it’s difficult to reach the mountaintop by public transportation, we recommend using a rental car or taxi to explore the island.
The parking lot is located just in front of the castle ruins, and parking is free. From the parking lot, it takes about 2 to 3 minutes to walk up the stairs to the summit. However, the number of parking spaces isAbout 5 unitsThere aren't many, and the space isn't very large either.
If you're traveling in a group with multiple vehicles, please carpool and avoid parking on the street. Since there are no restrooms on site, it's a good idea to use the restroom beforehand.
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How to Check for Construction and Road Closures
Road and parking lot construction, as well as traffic restrictions, may vary depending on the time of year. It’s a good idea to check with the rental car company staff for the latest road conditions.
Road conditions may be rough after a typhoon or heavy rain, so please plan your trip with plenty of time to spare.
Places to Visit Along with the Uejō Castle Ruins
4 Must-See Spots Around Kumejima
Kumejima has plenty of spots where you can enjoy both history and nature. Be sure to visit these along with the Uejō Castle Ruins.4 locationsHere are some suggestions to help you plan your drive.
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Gushigawa Castle Ruins
The ruins of Gushikawa Castle, located in the northwestern part of the island, are said to have been built by Lord Madafuts in the early 15th century. The distinctive stonework, a mixture of limestone and andesite, still remains today.
Surrounded by the ocean on three sidesSet in a location surrounded by nature, you can take in the scenery while learning about the history of the Ryukyu Kingdom. Why not compare it to the Uejō Castle Ruins and see the differences between a mountain castle and a seaside castle?
fiveleaf pine (Pinus palustris)
The Five-Branched Pine is,250 years oldThis is a magnificent specimen of the Ryukyu pine, often considered a "surplus" tree. With its branches spreading out along the ground rather than growing upward, it looks just like a giant bonsai.
It's located in Kamiezu, Kumejima Town, and features a parking lot, restrooms, and a snack bar. It's the perfect spot to take a break during a road trip.
Access: 10 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport
Mifgar.
If a woman prays to Mifgar,be blessed with childrenIt is said to be a popular power spot on Kumejima. It is characterized by the mysterious formations created by natural rocks.
Since this is also a place of prayer, please visit with a quiet and respectful attitude. If you observe proper etiquette during your visit, you’ll also get a sense of the island’s beliefs and culture.
Access: 12 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport
tatami stone
Tatami-ishi is a scenic spot located on Oujima Island, which is connected to Kumejima by a bridge. The area is dotted with pentagonal and hexagonal rocks resembling a turtle’s shell, creating a mysterious landscape.
It was actually formed when lava flowing from a volcanic eruption cooled and solidified.Columnar JointingIt's about a 30-minute drive from Kumejima Airport, making it an easy spot to include in a one-day itinerary that also takes in the Uejō Castle Ruins.
Access: 21 minutes by car from Kumejima Airport
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About the Uejō Castle Ruins
「うえぐすくじょうあと」と読みます。城跡がある山は「宇江城岳（うえぐすくだけ）」で、標高約310mの久米島最高峰です。
あります。無料ですが、台数は5台ほどと少なく、スペースも広くありません。トイレは設置されていないため、事前に済ませておくと安心です。
入場料は無料で、見学自由の史跡です。駐車場から階段を2〜3分ほど上ると山頂に着き、景色を楽しみながらの見学時間は30〜40分ほどが目安です。
summary
宇江城城跡（うえぐすくじょうあと）は、標高約310mの宇江城岳の山頂にある、沖縄県内で最も高い場所のグスク跡です。
山頂近くまで車で行け、駐車場は5台ほどと少なめなので、余裕をもって出かけましょう。
工事や通行止めの状況は時期で変わるため、事前確認が安心です。具志川城跡や五枝の松なども巡って、久米島の歴史と自然をたっぷり味わってくださいね！
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