About Uedajo (Castle)
Uedajo(Castle), located in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, was built by Masayuki Sanada, a famous general of the Warring States period, and is particularly well known as a castle closely associated with the history of the Sanada clan. The castle itself has gained fame as an “impregnable castle” because it twice defeated the Tokugawa forces before and after the Battle of Sekigahara. Today, Uedajo is maintained as the ruins of a castle and is an important tourist attraction that serves as a reminder of the history and military prowess of the Sanada clan. For fans of the Warring States period and tourists interested in the Sanada family, this is a spot of historical romance.
Uedajo's most distinctive feature is its strategic defense structure. In particular, large stones called “Sanada-ishi” (Sanada stone), former moats, and earthen mounds remain, showing how defensive the castle was in those days. Uedajo is widely known as a castle where Masayuki Sanada's strategic talents are strongly felt, as it was twice victorious against the Tokugawa forces. Because of this historical background, visitors to the castle can sense traces of Sanada's military strategies and battles, which is especially appealing to history buffs.
In addition, the restored yagura (turrets) in the site, which has been developed as Uedajo Ruins Park, give visitors a sense of the castle as it was in those days. The east toraguchi turret gate and the south turret are especially popular among tourists, who can also tour the inside. Inside the castle, visitors can learn about the role of Uedajo through a wealth of exhibits and materials related to the Sanada clan. The castle's valuable exhibits, such as armor and weapons related to the Sanada clan and materials related to the Battle of Sekigahara, provide visitors with an in-depth understanding of the Warring States period.
Furthermore, Uedajo's seasonal scenery is another major attraction. Especially in spring, about 1,000 cherry trees are in full bloom, and the castle ruins park is crowded with cherry blossom-viewing visitors. Known as a famous cherry blossom viewing spot, the combination of the stone walls and turrets with the cherry blossoms in full bloom is exceptional, creating a spectacular view that combines the historical atmosphere with the beauty of nature. In the fall, the beautifully colored autumn leaves adorn the castle ruins. Uedajo is unique in that visitors can enjoy a different look by visiting in each of the four seasons.
In addition to its historical value as a place associated with the Sanada family, Uedajo frequently hosts events related to the Sanada clan. In particular, the annual “Uedajo Thousand Cherry Blossoms Festival” features a warrior parade, ninja performances, and other historical events that offer visitors a special experience that brings them back to the Sanada period. This allows visitors to enjoy more than just a tour of the castle ruins.
In addition, the area surrounding Uedajo is dotted with sightseeing spots related to the Sanada clan, and a sightseeing course through the Sanada no Sato is also popular. For example, the Sanada Shrine is located within Uedajo and is a popular place for visitors to pray for the longevity of the Sanada family's military fortunes. These spots, which provide in-depth historical background, are not to be missed by Sanada fans and those who love the Warring States period.
All in all, Uedajo is a sightseeing spot where visitors can feel the history of the Sanada clan and the excitement of the Warring States period, and enjoy its magnificent past and beautiful scenery. It is an attractive place not only for those interested in warlords, but also for those who want to feel the beauty of nature and enjoy historical events.