Ueda Castle Ruins Park (上田城跡公園)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The stage of the Ueda Battle, built by Sanada Masayuki, the brilliant general of the Sengoku period, who is said to have repelled the Tokugawa armies twice. The sight of the stone walls and corner turret towering above the cliffs called Amagafuchi is breathtaking, and looking up from below clearly reveals its natural stronghold nature. Beside the Azuchi Tiger Gate stands the Sanada Stone, a massive boulder said to measure about 3 meters in diameter, a classic photo spot. If you tour the interior of the turret, you can experience Sengoku-era defenses up close through thick beams and arrow slits. The spacious park also has a pleasant walking path along the moat, where families with children can stroll freely.

Tips

Entry to the park is free, though viewing the interior of the south turret, north turret, and turret gate requires a fee. The turrets have steep stairs, so leave baby strollers at the entrance. Holiday weekends during cherry blossom or autumn foliage season can be crowded, so early morning after opening is more comfortable. The park has parking, but arriving early is recommended during busy seasons.

Best time to visit

Plan about 1 hour 30 minutes. In the morning with fewer visitors, the turret and stone walls photograph beautifully in favorable light.

Access & map

〒386-0026 Nagano Prefecture, Ueda City, Ninomaru 2-6263-i