Kasugayama Castle Ruins (venue of the Kenshin-ko Festival)

Flow of the course

About this spot

The 2026 Kenshin-ko Festival is held over three days, August 21 to 23, centered on the area around the Kasugayama Castle ruins, known as one of the largest mountain castles of the Sengoku period. The first day, the 21st (Friday), is the eve festival, featuring a lantern procession, performances by the warrior corps, and fireworks from 18:30 to 20:00. The main festival on the 22nd (Saturday) runs from an early-morning signal-fire lighting to a reenactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima, and the 23rd (Sunday) brings a portable shrine procession and folk dance parade, among other events honoring Echigo's hero, Uesugi Kenshin. As night falls and the castle ruins are lit up, families and locals gather, letting you experience the nighttime atmosphere unique to this place connected to Kenshin.

Season & hours

Tips

Parking near the venue tends to fill up during the festival, so using public transportation or a temporary parking lot is a safer bet. Events may be canceled or changed due to weather and other factors, so check official information on the day. Temperatures can drop in the mountains at night, so bringing something to layer on is reassuring. Also take insect precautions.

Best time to visit

The eve festival runs 18:30-20:00. Time your visit to the lantern procession and fireworks

Access & map

新潟県 上越市・春日山城跡周辺