* Image is for illustrative purposes only.Ueda Castle
上田城
Ueda Castle is a historic castle in Chūbu dating from the Built in 1583 (Tenshō 11), whose lord was Sanada Masayuki / Sanada clan.
Overview
Ueda Castle was built by the brilliant strategist Sanada Masayuki, renowned for twice repelling vastly superior Tokugawa forces. In the First Battle of Ueda (1585), roughly 1,300 defenders routed 7,000 Tokugawa troops. In the Second Battle (1600), Masayuki pinned down Tokugawa Hidetada's 38,000-strong army, causing them to miss the decisive Battle of Sekigahara. The castle symbolizes the Sanada clan's tactical genius and martial prowess — Masayuki was the father of the legendary Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige). Today the ruins are a park featuring the Sanada Shrine, and a celebrated spot for cherry blossoms in spring and autumn foliage.
Connection to Swords
The Sanada clan were renowned warriors with a deep practical understanding of swords forged through countless battles. Masayuki and his son Nobushige (Yukimura) fought through numerous engagements; Yukimura's legendary charge into Tokugawa Ieyasu's headquarters at the Summer Siege of Osaka remains one of the most celebrated feats of arms in Japanese history. Sanada heirloom swords include works by Shinshū smiths as well as celebrated blades received as rewards for meritorious service. The Ueda City Museum displays weapons and swords associated with the Sanada clan. Shinshū was also an important source of quality whetstones, contributing to sword polishing culture. The martial spirit embodied by the Sanada's iconic red-armored corps is inseparable from sword culture.
Highlights
- Sanada Shrine
- West, South, and North turrets (relocated and restored)
- Ueda City Museum (Sanada clan weapons)
- Zelkova-lined promenade
- Cherry blossoms and autumn foliage at the castle park
* Opening hours and admission fees are subject to change. Please check the official website before visiting.