Visit the Octagonal Hall Modeled After Bashō's Traveling Figure and Touch the Spirit of the Saint of Haiku
About this spot
A wooden octagonal hall built in 1942 to commemorate the 300th anniversary of the birth of the haiku saint Matsuo Bashō, designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. The rounded roof represents Bashō's travel hat, the eaves his straw cape, and the entire structure artfully depicts Bashō in his traveling form—surprisingly, from different angles, it truly appears as if a traveler is standing there. Inside the hall, a ceramic statue of Bashō in seated meditation is enshrined and displayed publicly on October 12 each year during the Bashō Festival. Positioned along the park path between Iga Ueno Castle and the Ninja Museum, it's easy to visit while passing through. A wonderfully quiet spot befitting the castle town where you can tell children, 'The great poet Bashō was born here in Iga,'
Tips
A short walk from Iga Ueno Castle through Ueno Park. Viewing is free, focusing mainly on the exterior; the ceramic statue of Bashō inside is displayed during the Bashō Festival on October 12 and similar occasions. The surrounding area is a quiet corner enveloped by trees, and the garden path is easy to walk, making it accessible even with a stroller. It's recommended to enjoy viewing the rounded roof from various angles with your children and discuss how it represents Bashō's traveling figure.
Best time to visit
Approximately 30 minutes. Early morning when the dappled sunlight is pleasant, visiting while traveling from the castle to the Ninja Museum is ideal.
Access & map
〒518-0873 Mie Prefecture, Iga City, Ueno Marunouchi 117-4
Model course featuring this spot
Iga Ueno: Ninja Museum and Castle Town Exploration
Mie
Explore features & model courses
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