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Ueda Castle Ruins: A Samurai Stronghold

Discover Ueda Castle: Explore samurai history, stunning architecture, and beautiful gardens in Nagano Prefecture. A historic fortress of the Sanada clan.

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Explore the historic Ueda Castle, a former stronghold of the Sanada clan, famed for twice repelling the Tokugawa shogunate. Wander the grounds, admire the reconstructed turrets and gate, and delve into the region's rich samurai history.

A brief summary to Uedajo Castle Ruins

  • Ninomaru, 2−4 6263 イ, Ueda, Ninomaru, Nagano, 386-0026, JP
  • +81268-23-5135
  • Monday 12 am-12 am
  • Tuesday 12 am-12 am
  • Wednesday 12 am-12 am
  • Thursday 12 am-12 am
  • Friday 12 am-12 am
  • Saturday 12 am-12 am
  • Sunday 12 am-12 am

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring cherry blossom season for stunning views and the Sen-Bon Sakura Matsuri.
  • Check the schedule for samurai performances by the Ueda City’s “Omotenashi Bushotai”.
  • Explore the Sanada Ninja Shurenjo to experience ninja training techniques.
  • Visit the Ueda City Museum on the castle grounds to view samurai artifacts and learn about the region's history.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Ueda Station (JR Hokuriku Shinkansen), the Uedajo Castle Ruins are approximately a 12-minute walk. Exit the station from the Castle Exit (Oshiro-guchi) and walk straight. At the "Chuo 2 Chome" intersection, turn left. The castle grounds will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    Ueda Station is a major transportation hub served by the Hokuriku Shinkansen, Shinano Railway, and Ueda Electric Railway. From Nagano Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Ueda Station (approx. 12 minutes). Alternatively, take the Shinetsu Main Line or Shinano Railway from Nagano Station to Ueda Station (approx. 45 minutes). From Tokyo Station, take the Hokuriku Shinkansen to Ueda Station (approx. 1 hour 30 minutes). Upon arrival at Ueda Station, follow the walking directions to reach the castle.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available at Ueda Station. A short taxi ride from Ueda Station to Uedajo Castle Ruins typically costs between ¥700 and ¥1000, depending on traffic. The journey takes approximately 5-10 minutes. Be aware that fares may increase during late-night hours.

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Discover more about Uedajo Castle Ruins

Ueda Castle, located in Ueda, Nagano Prefecture, is steeped in rich samurai history. Originally constructed in 1583 by Sanada Masayuki, the castle is renowned for its formidable defenses and the Sanada clan's resilience. The castle twice repelled the forces of the Tokugawa shogunate, a feat that solidified its place in Japanese history. Following the Meiji Restoration, like many castles in Japan, Ueda Castle was dismantled. However, determined civic leaders later undertook a meticulous reconstruction, repurposing many of the original timbers to rebuild key structures. Today, visitors can explore the reconstructed main gate (completed in 1996) and two turrets, which house exhibits detailing the castle's history and the Sanada clan. The castle grounds transform into a vibrant spectacle during the cherry blossom season, hosting the Ueda Castle Sen-Bon Sakura Matsuri in early April. The park also features two shrines, the Ueda City Museum, and a ninja training center. The Sanada Ninja Shurenjo offers visitors a chance to try their hand at shuriken throwing and other ninja techniques. Throughout the year, the castle hosts various events, including samurai performances and craft fairs.

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