Iga Ueno Castle

One of Japan's most impressive historic fortresses.

Nearby Ryokans

Located inside Ueno Park in the center of Iga City, Mie Prefecture, Iga Ueno Castle is a historic fortress originally built by Tsutsui Sadatsugu. Later, the master castle architect Todo Takatora carried out a major expansion to prepare for battles against the Toyotomi clan in Osaka. The current castle tower is a traditional wooden reconstruction built in 1935, funded through the personal wealth of local politician Katsu Kawasaki. Because of its stunning three-story white structure, it is affectionately nicknamed “Hakuhojo” (White Phoenix Castle) and loved as a regional symbol.

Features

The standout highlight of the castle is the massive stone wall on the west side of the inner moat, engineered by Todo Takatora. Reaching roughly 30 meters high, it ranks alongside Osaka Castle as one of the tallest castle stone walls in Japan. Looking down into the moat from the top of the wall offers a thrilling view that shows off the impressive engineering and defensive strength of the era. Inside the reconstructed wooden tower, visitors will find a museum filled with armor, weapons, and historical items associated with the Todo clan. On the top floor ceiling, do not miss the 46 decorative ceiling paintings donated by famous artists and public figures of the early 20th century, including Taikan Yokoyama, to celebrate the castle’s reconstruction.

On the top floor ceiling, 46 stunning ceiling paintings donated by famous artists like Taikan Yokoyama and political figures of the time to celebrate the reconstruction are on display, making this another highlight you should not miss.

Recommended Ways to Spend Time and Enjoy

Starting from Uenoshi Station (also known as Ninja City Station) on the Iga Railway, a quick 8 minute walk brings you into the green surroundings of Ueno Park.

Once inside the park, take time to view the towering stone walls before heading up inside the wooden castle tower. From the top floor, you can enjoy 360 degree views out over the peaceful Iga Basin and the grid-pattern streets of the surrounding castle town.

After exploring the castle, a great sightseeing route includes visiting the Ninja Museum of Igaryu and the Basho Memorial Museum, both located right in Ueno Park. The Ninja Museum offers interactive trick house tours and live ninja shows that are fun for all ages.

Visiting in spring brings beautiful cherry blossoms, while autumn colors frame the stone walls, offering great photo opportunities throughout the year. Costume rental shops are available nearby, so dressing up in full ninja attire to explore the castle grounds and town makes for a unique, memorable day trip.

Basic Information

・Spot Name: Iga Ueno Castle
・Business Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM  
・Closed: December 29 to December 31
・Price:   Adults 600 yen / Children (elementary and middle school students) 300 yen
・Parking:  Available

Access

Address: 41-2 Chitose, Iga City, Mie Prefecture

Transportation

Public Transport: About an 8 minute walk from Uenoshi Station (Ninja City Station) on the Iga Railway
By Car: About a 5 minute drive from Ueno IC, or about a 10 minute drive from Nakase IC on the Meihan Expressway

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