Pay Respects to the Deity of Learning and Explore the Sacred Grounds Connected to the Ueno Tenjin Festival
About this spot
The tutelary shrine of the castle town, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, the deity of learning, affectionately called 'Ueno Tenjin-san' by locals. The autumn Ueno Tenjin Festival, this shrine's festival rite, is registered as a UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage ('Mountain, Halberd, and Float Rituals') and is famous as Iga's grandest festival, with spectacular floats and impressive demon processions parading through the castle town. The shrine grounds are usually calm and tranquil, perfect for a family visit to pray for children's academic success and healthy growth. A quiet moment to join hands in prayer after the excitement of the Ninja Museum provides a well-timed rest. Visiting before heading to Danjiri Hall next makes it a perfect introduction to the festival world.
Tips
Just a few minutes' walk from Ueno-Shi Station, and about 10 minutes from Ueno Park through the castle town—very accessible. Admission is free, and the grounds are flat, making it easy to navigate with a stroller. The offering office sells amulets for academic success fitting for the deity of learning, and if you'd like a seal stamp, don't forget your stamp book. The surrounding area features preserved old shops and traditional townscape, so enjoying a leisurely castle town walk along with your shrine visit is recommended.
Best time to visit
Approximately 40 minutes. After lunch, during a calm time of day, is ideal for unhurried worship.
Access & map
〒518-0861 Mie Prefecture, Iga City, Ueno Higashimachi 2929
Model course featuring this spot
Iga Ueno: Ninja Museum and Castle Town Exploration
Mie
Explore features & model courses
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