Nakijin castle is estimated to have been built in the 13th Century by Okinawan local chieftains called Aji. It was the home of the Aji until the Hanji took control in the 14th century, and established the Hokuzan Kingdom with their base in Nakijin Castle. In 1416 the Chuzan Kingdom conquered the Hokuzan Kingdom, and stationed their governor in Nakijin Castle. The governor, Lord Gosamaru, is said to have been a descendent of the Aji lords who originally built the castle.