2026 Kenshin-ko Festival: A Full Day Course
This one-day course centers on the first day of the 'Kenshin-ko Festival' (August 21-23, 2026, held around the Kasugayama Castle Ruins in Joetsu City), which honors Echigo's hero Uesugi Kenshin. The day starts with a tour of historic sites connected to Kenshin. Preview the castle's history at the Kasugayama Castle Ruins Story Hall, then walk to Rinsen-ji, the Zen temple where Kenshin spent his childhood, and Kasugayama Shrine, which enshrines Lord Kenshin. Venture further to Takada Park, known as one of Japan's three great night-cherry-blossom spots, to see the magnificent summer lotus flowers and the reconstructed three-story turret. In the evening, have an early dinner in Takada's old castle town. The first day, Friday, August 21, is the eve festival, with a lantern procession, performances by the warrior corps, and fireworks from 18:30 to 20:00. Spend an evening with your family at the foot of the lantern-lit castle ruins, remembering the Sengoku-era warlord of Echigo.
Schedule
Preview the history of Kasugayama Castle through dioramas and video
The Zen temple connected to the Uesugi family where Uesugi Kenshin spent his childhood
A shrine enshrining Lord Uesugi Kenshin, with a magnificent view from the hillside
In summer, the highlights are the lotus flowers covering the moat and the reconstructed three-story turret
An early dinner in the shopping street that still carries the atmosphere of the old castle town
Into the festival night honoring Echigo's hero, Uesugi Kenshin
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