Recognized as one of a dozen World Heritage Sites on Okinawa, Nakijin has a storied past that dates back to the 13th century. During the days of the Ryukyu Kingdom, Nakijin served as the primary castle of the Hokuzan, the northernmost portion of the kingdom.

Okinawa's Shuri Castle was the residence of the Ryukyu royal family for about 450 years, since the early 15th century, and shone out as a focus for a brilliant dynastic culture. The Seiden (Shuri Castle), above all, is its most important structure, as the site where politics and ceremonies were enacted with the King in attendance. Completely restored in November 1992, the Seiden stands imposinglyon a hill that commands a panoramic view of Naha City and East China Sea.