Kawanakajima Battlefield (Nagano City, Nagano Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

The Kawanakajima Battlefield is a historic site that marks the site of the fierce Battle of Kawanakajima between Uesugi Kenshin and Takeda Shingen during the Sengoku period. The fourth battle in 1561 is particularly famous, and the tactics and human remains of the two heroes have been passed down through the generations. It has now been developed as Hachimanbara Historical Park, dotted with stone monuments, information boards, and commemorative statues that tell the story of the battle, making it a place where you can really feel the history. The flat fields and walking trails offer views of the surrounding mountains and the flowing Shinano River, making it a great place not only for history buffs but also for nature walks and photography.

Highlights

• Touring historical sites: You can check the battle situation and the locations of historical sites from the stone monuments and information boards that stand at various points on the battlefield.
• Memorials and Monuments: There are monuments and statues commemorating battles and remembering the heroes of the past (please check the signs on-site).
• The walking path at Yawatahara Historical Park is flat and easy to walk on, allowing you to enjoy the scenery of each season. In spring, you can enjoy the beautiful rape blossoms and cherry blossoms, and in autumn, the autumn leaves.
• Interpretive panels and materials: There are panels and materials that explain the history of the battle and the terrain (it is not as large as the museum, so it is recommended to visit it in addition to the surrounding museums).
• Photo spot: A popular composition is one that includes mountains over a vast plain.

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

The nearest station is JR Nagano Station. Directions for access are as follows:

• By car: Approximately 15-25 minutes from JR Nagano Station via national and prefectural roads (depending on traffic conditions). There are parking lots available, but the number of spaces is limited, so it is recommended to arrive early during events.
• Bus: There are some sections where route buses operate from Nagano Station. Destination signs and times change depending on the season and day of the week, so please check the Nagano City route bus information and timetable before setting off.
• Taxi: Approximately 15-25 minutes by taxi from Nagano Station.
• Walking: It is not practical to walk from Nagano Station as it is quite far (approximately 4-5km, 40-70 minutes on foot).

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Just looking around the main sights: 30 minutes to 1 hour
• A leisurely stroll, taking photos, and reading the commentary: 1-2 hours
• Combining a visit with other nearby museums: Half a day to a full day

Nearby spots

• Zenkoji Temple: A large temple representing Nagano City. It is convenient to combine a visit with a historical walk.
• Matsushiro (Matsushiro Castle and Sanada-related historical sites): There are historical sites and museums related to the Sanada clan, making it easy to incorporate into a route touring historical sites from the Sengoku period.
• Nagano City Museum and Local History Museum: Learn about the history of the area and find excavated artifacts. There may also be materials related to the Battle of Kawanakajima.
• Nature trails around Kawanakajima: We also recommend strolling along the Shinano River riverbed and in nearby parks.

Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)

• Crowds: Visitors may increase during battle-related events and on weekends. Parking lots may fill up on event days, so please consider using public transportation or arriving early.
• Manners: Historic sites are cultural assets. Graffiti on monuments and signs, collecting soil, collecting plants, and entering restricted areas are strictly prohibited. Please be sure to take your trash with you when you leave.
• Seasonal notes: In winter, snow and frozen roads are common, so be careful of your footing and driving. In spring and autumn, there are days with large temperature differences, so please dress accordingly.
• Information signs: Local information signs may be mainly in Japanese. If you would like more detailed information or information in English, please check with the Nagano City Tourist Information Center.
• Photography/Drones: Photography itself is generally not a problem, but approaching monuments and flying drones may be restricted. Please check the rules beforehand.

The Kawanakajima Battlefield is a quiet historic site that tells the story of a fierce battle during the Warring States period, but by touring the surrounding tourist attractions you can gain a deeper understanding of the history of the area. When visiting, please follow the local guides and be mindful of the preservation of the historic site.