Uesugi Shrine, Yonezawa
上杉神社
Built on the Honmaru site of Yonezawa Castle, enshrining the Sengoku warlord Uesugi Kenshin and surrounded by a moat and cherry blossoms.
Uesugi Shrine stands in Matsugasaki Park on the former Honmaru site of Yonezawa Castle and enshrines Uesugi Kenshin, the 'Dragon of Echigo.' The present shrine building was designed by architect Itō Chūta and rebuilt in 1923. The Keishōden hall inside displays armour, swords and other treasures of Kenshin and the Uesugi family (admission charged). In spring, cherry blossoms line the moat. The Uesugi Festival in early May reenacts the Battle of Kawanakajima, and the Snow Lantern Festival in February lights hundreds of snow lanterns. It is about a 10-minute bus ride from JR Yonezawa Station, and you should not miss Yonezawa beef for lunch.
Opening hours
All day (Jizhao Hall approx. 09:30–16:00)
Nearby sights
- Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum
- Takahata Winery
- Kumano Taisha, Nanyo
- Kaminoyama Onsen & Castle
- Zao Onsen
- Zao Juhyo (Snow Monsters)
- Kajo Park (Yamagata Castle Ruins)
- Nanokamachi Gotenzeki