Nakijin Castle, or Nakijin Gusuku (Ryukyuan castle or fortress) is located in Nakijin Village, Okinawa, Japan. It was the residence of the Ryukyuan Kingdom governor and is currently in ruins. Work began on its construction in the late 13th century and it had reached its final form by the beginning of the 15th century. The castle is strategically sited on a lone hill, well defended by natural features (river, cliffs and deep valley). The fortress includes several sacred Utaki groves, reflecting the gusuku's role as a center of religious activity. It is famous for the Hikan cherries which bloom in northern Okinawa between mid-January and early February.