Kasugayama Castle (Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture)

Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)

Kasugayama Castle is the remains of a mountain castle from the Sengoku period in Joetsu City, Niigata Prefecture, and is particularly known as the castle of Uesugi Kenshin (then a member of the Nagao clan). Built on the ridge of Mount Kasuga at an altitude of about 180m, it is a "mountain castle" and is characterized by its structure, which cleverly utilizes the mountain's topography, with enclosures, earthworks, moats, and gates arranged in stages.

Currently maintained as a castle ruins park, you can feel the atmosphere of the Warring States period while walking around the remains of the main citadel and various ruins, and there is also an observation point overlooking the city of Joetsu and the Sea of Japan. It is a popular spot not only for history buffs but also for tourists who come for a hike.

Highlights

• Remains of the Honmaru and Ninomaru citadels: In the center of the castle, remains of earthen platforms and stonework remain, giving you a sense of the castle's scale in the past.
• Earthworks, moats, and horizontal moats: Many defensive structures unique to mountain castles remain. You can observe the differences between each structure while walking around.
• Kasugayama Shrine: A shrine located at the foot to mid-slope of the castle ruins. It is a place dedicated to Kenshin and also serves as a base for historical site guidance.
• Viewpoint: From near the Honmaru, you can see Joetsu city and the Sea of Japan, and the view is especially recommended on a clear day.
• Historic site information boards and guidance: There are explanatory boards in various places, so you can easily learn about the role of the remains and their historical background. You can deepen your understanding by visiting the surrounding museums.
• Events related to Uesugi Kenshin: Depending on the time of year, you can enjoy armor processions and Sengoku period picture scrolls, such as the "Kenshin Festival" held every May (the date of the event varies from year to year).

Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)

• Nearest station (railway): Kasugayama Station (local line) is the closest station, and you can walk to the castle ruins from there. It is easily accessible by train, bus, or taxi from major stations in the Joetsu region (Naoetsu Station, Takada Station, Joetsu Myoko Station).
• Buses and taxisFrom Naoetsu Station or Takada Station, you can take a local bus, community bus, or taxi to the area around Kasugayama Castle Ruins and Kasugayama Shrine. Timetables change depending on the season and route, so we recommend checking in advance.
• car: Approximately 10-20 minutes by car from the center of Joetsu City via the Hokuriku Expressway or Joshinetsu Expressway (depending on traffic congestion and parking conditions). There is a parking lot (free/paid) at the foot of the mountain, but it may be full during busy times.
• *Specific routes and times may change, so please check the official websites of railway and bus companies or Joetsu City Tourist Information for the latest information before departing.

Estimated stay (estimated time required)

• Short: 30 minutes to 1 hour (a short tour from the base of the mountain to the remains of the main castle and back)
• Standard: 1.5 to 2 hours (take your time to look at the ruins and enjoy the view)
• Take your time: Half a day or more (if you combine visiting nearby museums, shrines, and other tourist spots)
• *As there are many mountain paths and they are undulating, walking time may vary depending on your physical strength and the weather. Please plan with plenty of time.

Nearby spots

• Takada Park (Takada Castle Ruins): 10-15 minutes by car. A historic park famous for its cherry blossoms in spring. Takada Castle's three-story turret is also worth seeing.
• Joetsu City Museum of History (Archives): There are many exhibits of historical materials related to the Uesugi family and the local area. You can learn about history while touring the castle ruins.
• Naoetsu, a local port town: Enjoy the seafood and local industry streets (convenient for dining and buying souvenirs).
• Echigo Yuzawa and Myoko area: If you go a little further by car, you can also enjoy hot springs and mountain scenery.

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

• Watch your step: Please wear comfortable walking shoes (trekking shoes or sneakers) as there are mountain paths, stone steps, and muddy areas. The trail can be slippery and dangerous during rain or when the snow melts.
• Winter snowfall: Joetsu is a region that receives heavy snowfall, so ruins and trails may be closed due to snow in winter. Please check in advance if you plan to visit in winter.
• During crowds and events: The area gets extremely crowded during the Kenshin Festival and cherry blossom season. Traffic restrictions and parking shortages may occur, so we recommend using public transportation and arriving early.
• Preservation of Historic Sites and MannersPlease cooperate with the preservation of the historic site by not entering the ruins, taking your trash with you, refraining from shouting and using fire, etc. Also, if you have pets, please make sure they are on a leash and that you dispose of their waste so as not to cause a nuisance to others.
• Guide signs and English: Local guides are often mainly in Japanese. You can enjoy your visit more by using a map app or gathering information in advance (historical site guides and tourist information centers).
• Use of drones, etc.: For the protection of historical sites and the safety of other visitors, please refrain from flying drones without permission. If necessary, please check with your local government in advance.

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Kasugayama Castle offers a fascinating on-site experience that allows you to feel the weight of history. By planning well and taking the appropriate equipment, you can safely enjoy the castle ruins and the surrounding historical sites and nature. If necessary, we can also create recommended sightseeing routes for each season (cherry blossom season, Kenshin Festival, autumn foliage season) and specific transfer directions from the nearest station, so please let us know.