Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Ueda Castle (Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture) is a castle park built on the remains of a castle that served as the base of the Sanada clan from the Sengoku period through the Edo period. Known as a place associated with the Sanada clan, including Sanada Masayuki and Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige), it is popular among history buffs for its heroic fighting in the Battle of Ueda, where the Tokugawa forces were defeated. Currently, the site is maintained with stone walls, moats, restored turrets and gates, and the castle park, Sanada Shrine, and surrounding museums have all been developed as tourist attractions. The changing scenery throughout the seasons, such as cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves, is also attractive.
Highlights
- Main citadel ruins, stone walls and moats: You can see stone walls and moats that retain the atmosphere of the Warring States period. It is a park that is easy to stroll around.
- Restored turrets and gates: Some turrets and gates have been restored and preserved, allowing you to get a feel for the castle's former appearance (the interior of some turrets is sometimes used as a museum).
- Sanada Shrine: A shrine dedicated to the Sanada clan. Festivals and worship are held here, and it is also a popular photo spot.
- Ueda City Museum and Archives: This museum is packed with historical documents, excavations, and exhibits related to the Sanada clan and Ueda Castle. A must-see for anyone wanting to learn more about history (fees may apply).
- Seasonal scenery: Cherry blossoms in spring and autumn leaves in autumn. Castle Ruins Park is also famous as a cherry blossom viewing spot.
- Sanada Goods and Historical Walks: You can enjoy Sanada-related exhibits and goods at souvenir shops and historical sites around the castle.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
- Nearest station: JR Ueda Station (within walking distance from Ueda Station)
- Walking: Approximately 15-20 minutes on foot from JR Ueda Station (there are many flat roads from the station, so you can walk there).
- Bus/Taxi: It's just a few minutes by bus or taxi from the station. This is convenient if you have a lot of luggage or if the weather is bad.
- By car: There is a parking lot in the center of Ueda city, but it tends to fill up during peak tourist seasons and on weekends, so we recommend using public transportation.
- Access from other areas: From Tokyo, take the Nagano Shinkansen (stopping at the station) to Ueda. Please check in advance as the access method and travel time will vary depending on your departure point.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Walking around the castle park only: 30 minutes to 1 hour
- Tour including the turret and museum: Approximately 1.5 to 2.5 hours
- A leisurely plan including sightseeing around historical sites and museums: half a day to a full day
Nearby spots
- Sanada Shrine (within the castle grounds) — A shrine associated with the Sanada clan. Perfect for worship and taking commemorative photos.
- Ueda City Museum and Archives - Exhibits on the history of the Sanada clan and the local area.
- Unnojuku — Well-preserved post town (accessible by car or public transport).
- Bessho Onsen — A historic hot spring resort accessible via the Ueda Electric Railway. Enjoy a relaxing day trip or overnight stay.
- Souvenir and restaurant district - You can enjoy local gourmet food and Sanada-related goods around the station and on the castle town-style streets.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Crowds: The park gets crowded during cherry blossom season, Golden Week, the autumn tourist season, and on weekends. Parking spaces tend to fill up quickly, so we recommend using public transportation and visiting early in the morning or in the evening.
- Visitor etiquette: Historic sites are public property. Climbing restricted areas and stone walls is strictly prohibited. Please take your trash with you and observe proper etiquette when visiting shrines.
- Footing and clothing: There are stone steps and uneven ground, so we recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Be careful when it rains as it can be slippery.
- Seasonal notes: In winter, it may be cold and snowy (wear warm clothing). In summer, the sun will be strong, so be sure to wear a hat and stay hydrated.
- Check facility information: The opening days of the tower and the opening hours and closing days of the museum may change. Please check the official website or tourist information for the latest information before visiting.
Ueda Castle is a place where you can enjoy the scent of history and the beauty of the seasons at the same time. Please make sure to allow plenty of time to visit, combining it with sightseeing in the surrounding area and historical sites related to the Sanada clan.
