Touring the central and northern areas of Okinawa Island will take you to three World Heritage sites. Begin your tour by car at Katsuren Castle ruins, chieftain Amawari's historical stronghold. You'll experience a panoramic view of Okinawa's central region and the sparkling waters of Pacific Ocean. From here, cross the island and head towards Yomitan Village to see the expert construction techniques of renowned builder Gosamaru applied at Zakimi Castle. While in Yomitan, don't forget to stop by the Yachimun no Sato pottery village. Here you will find a kiln and working artists applying distinctive designs and colors to many kinds of pottery.

After leaving Yomitan, take Route 58 and head to Nago City in the north. In the city is another castle ruin known as Nago Gusuku, or Nangusuku in the local dialect. If your visit to Okinawa is in mid-January and if the timing is right, you will come across beautiful flowering Taiwan cherry trees (Prunus campanulata Maxim.) in full bloom at this site.

A short 30-40 minute ride from Nago City will take you to the ruins of Nakijin Castle in Nakijin Village. Here, you will be awed at the size and notice how the castle ruins blend harmoniously with the surrounding natural environment. In spring, along with Nago Gusuku, this heritage site also offers a breathtaking view of cherry trees in the grounds and along a stone path.