2026 Ueda Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in August)

After marveling at the spectacular Kiyomizu Stage, slow down and explore the Higashiyama area where it is located. This area hides countless corners where you can immerse yourself in the essence of Kyoto, from Zen meditation to kimono wearing, from tea ceremony to antique markets. 📍 Core Area: Kiyomizu-dera and surrounding Higashiyama cultural district 📅 Theme: Deep immersion in Kyoto traditional culture 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Family Highlights: Zen experience + kimono dress-up + antique treasure hunting + visits to lesser-known temples 🎎 Selected deep cultural experience programs: 1. Zen moments inside temples: · Kōdai-ji Temple “Zazen” experience: Kōdai-ji regularly offers public zazen (seated meditation) guidance in English/Japanese. In the tranquil temple, learning to adjust your breathing with your children and feeling a moment of focus and calm is a very unique experience. · Chishaku-in “sutra copying” experience: Next to a national treasure-level garden, calmly copy a Buddhist sutra by hand. You can take your completed work home as a wonderful keepsake. 2. The art of transformation and walking: · Kimono rental in Higashiyama: Rent a kimono near Kiyomizu-dera, then wear it to explore the alleys around Yasaka Pagoda (Hōkan-ji), such as Chawan-zaka, where there are fewer tourists and you can take more atmospheric photos. · Japanese dance experience: A few cultural studios offer short traditional Japanese dance lessons, where you can learn some basic moves and feel the rhythm of the body. 3. The fun of markets and treasure hunting: · Chion-in “Handmade Market” (15th of every month): If your timing is right, don’t miss this largest handmade market in Kyoto held inside Chion-in. Hundreds of stalls selling ceramics, textiles, food, and full of everyday life vibes. · Antique shops on Sannenzaka: Behind the main streets of Ninenzaka and Sannenzaka, there are some small antique and secondhand shops where you might find vintage Kiyomizu-yaki small plates or Japanese-style trinkets. 4. The serene beauty of lesser-known temples: · Entoku-in: Adjacent to Kōdai-ji, it features two types of gardens, a northern dry landscape garden and a southern pond stroll garden. Small and exquisite, with few visitors and peaceful. · Anraku-ji: A quiet small temple famous for its sal tree pair, stunning in summer bloom and showing a lonely beauty in winter. 🗺️ “Cultural Practice” one-day proposal: · Morning: Early visit to Kiyomizu-dera (7-8 am) → Experience yudofu (tofu hot pot) at Okutan Kiyomizu or Junsei. · Afternoon: Head to Kōdai-ji for zazen experience (reservation required) → Stroll along Ninenzaka and visit Entoku-in. · Evening: If it’s the day of the handmade market, go to Chion-in; if not, take a walk around Gion Shirakawa, chance upon a maiko, and dine at a traditional old shop. 🏡 Cultural immersive accommodation extensions: Kyoto Tawaraya Ryokan: With a 300-year history, acclaimed as Japan’s top ryokan, it is the ultimate hall to experience traditional “omotenashi” (exquisite hospitality) culture. Kyoto Hiiragiya Ryokan: A top-tier ryokan on par with Tawaraya, where literary giant Yasunari Kawabata once stayed long-term, full of literary and historical atmosphere. Kyoto Seikoro: Also historically rich, located by the Kamo River, famous for its exquisite garden and authentic hot springs. 🍱 First Kaiseki experience: · In the Higashiyama area, choose a restaurant offering lunch kaiseki sets, such as Roan Kikunoi (Higashiyama branch), which is relatively more affordable than dinner and a great chance to experience the essence of Kyoto cuisine. 💡 Deep travel parent memo: · Reservation is key: Zazen, sutra copying, high-end dining, etc., must be booked several days or even weeks in advance. · Respect the rules: Strictly follow venue regulations during cultural activities, keep quiet, and listen to instructions. · Interest guidance: Choose experiences based on your child’s personality. Active kids may not suit long meditation but might enjoy treasure-hunting style market strolls. · Cultural preparation: Before the trip, watch picture books or short videos about Japanese temples, gardens, and tea ceremony with your children to greatly enhance the on-site experience. Step out of the travel guide checklist and live like a “cultural visitor” in Kyoto for a few days. You will find that Kiyomizu-dera is more than just a scenic spot; it is a door to a delicate, profound, and ritual-filled ancient world.

Known as Nagano Prefecture's "Treasure Trove of Japanese Cuisine," Ueda City boasts not only a rich history but also a wealth of delightful authentic souvenirs and gourmet shops hidden within its streets and alleyways. This time, we'll focus on visiting Okazaki Shuzo and Iijima Shoten, immersing ourselves in the unwavering dedication of local craftsmen. From award-winning sake to signature desserts crafted with Shinshu apples, every bite is a testament to the region's pride! Recommended Attractions 1. Okazaki Shuzo Co., Ltd. Located at 4-7-33 Chuo Street in Ueda City, Okazaki Shuzo is a must-see for sake lovers, highly recommended even by locals. Not only can you experience traditional sake brewing, but you can also purchase award-winning sake directly, limited to one bottle per person. Colorful sake cups are also available, making them a great souvenir to take home. 📍Address: 4-7-33 Chuo, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 396-0012 ⏰Opening Hours: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (year-round) 2. Misuzuame Hompo Iijima Shoten Ueda Honten Specializing in 100% fruit juice gummy candies with a variety of fruit flavors, they're perfect for children or those with a healthy sweet tooth. This shop preserves the traditional Shinshu handmade confectionery techniques, allowing you to savor the natural sweetness of the fruit. 📍Address: Near Ueda Station 3. Shinshu Apple Pie Laboratory Shinshu apple pie is a local specialty! The Apple Pie Research Institute uses fresh local apples, resulting in a crispy crust and juicy filling. We recommend buying freshly baked ones; the crust is even more fragrant when eaten fresh. 📍Address: 2-4-12 Chuo, Ueda City Practical Tips Getting There: From JR Ueda Station in downtown Ueda, you can walk to Okazaki Shuzo and Iijima Shoten in about 10-15 minutes, making it a great stop for exploring the city. Buses are also easily accessible; use Google Maps to find stops. Food Recommendations: In addition to marshmallows and apple pies, there are many Japanese izakayas hidden around Okazaki Shuzo. For dinner, try sake with yakitori – a perfect pairing. There are also popular Japanese confectionery shops near Iijima Shoten, so you can buy some to enjoy at your hotel. Review of Tips: 1. When choosing sake, be sure to ask the staff about new releases and limited editions; there's a wide selection available on-site. 2. Marshmallows come in a variety of flavors, so try a mixed bag to take home for a party. 3. We recommend sampling the apple pie right out of the oven; it's best fresh out of the oven. #UedaFoodGuide #ShinshuSake #Don'tMissTheApplePie #JellyMushroomSouvenir #NaganoTravel

Utsukushigahara Highland is a plateau located in the northwestern part of Yatsugatake Chushin Kogen Quasi-National Park, spanning Matsumoto City, Ueda City, and Nagawa Town in Nagano Prefecture. It is also one of Japan's 100 Famous Mountains. The expansive grasslands feature a ranch and the popular photo spot, Utsukushi-no-Tou (Tower of Beauty). Early mornings are particularly magical, with mist creating a dreamy atmosphere. It’s about a one-hour drive from downtown Matsumoto. If you’re visiting Matsumoto, this is a must-see destination worth extending your trip for. 📍Utsukushigahara Highland Free Parking Address: 2085-70 Takeishi Kamihoniri, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture Hours: Open 24 hours (Overnight stays in your car are possible. Staying overnight is recommended for those who want to catch the sunrise.)

[Utsukushigahara Plateau] in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture It has free parking and is famous for being able to see a beautiful sunrise It's a bit of a walk from your car to the summit, but the path is well-maintained and very easy to walk on, so you can climb like you're hiking🚶♀️ The view from the summit is spectacular, and you can see the mountains in the distance clearly💗 It's quite cold at the summit, so dress warmly when climbing☺️ #0 yen trip January 2025 📍Location: Takeishikamimotoiri, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 386-0507 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Price per person: Free 🅿️: Free parking available

_________ Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 📍Anrakuji Temple 📸 2024/09/01 _________ At Anrakuji Temple in Bessho Onsen, if you make a reservation in advance, you can experience zazen from 6am...! *Reservations must be made 5 days in advance On the way to the zazen, the stairs leading to Anrakuji Temple, illuminated by the morning light, were very beautiful📷´- As I climbed the stairs, Anrakuji Temple came into view I listened to a wonderful priest talk about zazen and then the zazen experience began 15 minutes of nothingness... It seems short but it's a long time... It's quite difficult to empty your mind💦 𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂 【　　 🚃 Bessho Onsen Anrakuji Templeﾟ´-　　】 📍Address 2361 Bessho Onsen, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture 🗺Access About a 20-minute walk from Bessho Onsen Station ⏰Time 6:00am - 6:30am *Not held during winter (November - March) 🎟.·Price 500 yen per person 🔖Point Anrakuji Temple is famous for its national treasure octagonal three-story pagoda, and for being the oldest Zen temple in Nagano Prefecture. 𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂𖤣𖤥𖠿𖤣𖤥𓂃◌𓈒𓐍𓂃𓈒𓂂 ______________________ #Nagano outing spot #Ueda #Ueda City #Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture #Bessho Onsen #Anrakuji Temple #Nagano trip #Camera girl #Couple trip #Photo walk trip #Outing spot #Weekend outing spot #Free travel

Built by Sanada Masayuki in the late 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. Ueda Castle is the castle that defeated Tokugawa Hidetada's army. Staff members dressed as Sanada Masayuki will welcome you. There are many tourist attractions in Ueda, including Bessho Onsen, Kitamuki Kannon, the Kawanakajima battlefield, Utsukushigahara Highlands, an observation deck in the Alps with a 360-degree panoramic view, and Chausuyama Zoo, a zoo in the forest.

This is a walk around the town of Ueda Castle, which was built by Sanada Masayuki in the late 16th century during the Azuchi-Momoyama period. There are also old-style cafes nearby, so you can spend some relaxing time here♪

There are many free activities to enjoy at Ogatoh Hotel in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture. One of them is snowmobile cruising. In winter, Utsukushigahara is covered in a blanket of silver. Why not enjoy the endless snowscape on a snowmobile? Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogatoh #NaganoHotel #OgatohHotel #BreathtakingView

A report on the meal at the cloud-top resort, Ogato Hotel! I stayed in a suite, so I ate in my room. 😊 The course meal was brought to the dining room. Their specialty is seasonal dishes made with Shinshu brand ingredients! ✨The Ogato Hotel's signature "Grilled Salt Trout" was especially delicious, freshly grilled right in front of me.♫ Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogato #NaganoHotel #OgatoHotel #GourmetTrip #Gourmet

An exquisite stay at a resort above the clouds! ✨ I stayed at Ogato Hotel in Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture! The room was a suite. It was spacious, with a living room, dining room where you can enjoy in-room dining, and a bedroom. And there was even a bath where you could soak while gazing at the sea of ​​clouds. ♨️ We had a truly relaxing time. Address: 8964 Iriyamabe, Matsumoto City, Nagano Prefecture (Shuttle bus available from Matsumoto Station) #Nagano #Matsumoto #Ogato #NaganoHotel #OgatoHotel

Ueda Castle Ruins Park in Nagano Prefecture Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture became a popular tourist destination after the 2016 NHK historical drama Sanada Maru. Ueda Castle Ruins Park is a very large park that is free to enter if you just want to visit. It is especially recommended during the cherry blossom and autumn foliage seasons. Ueda Castle Ruins Park Ninomaru 2, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture #Free Spot

📍Itinerary Day 1 Arrive in Ueda city and check in. Visit the iconic Ueda castle ruins Stroll through Sanada Shrine and immerse yourself in the Sengoku Sanada culture Wander the retro Yanagida historic street, fully soaking in the Japanese old-town atmosphere Head to Bessho Onsen in the evening to soak in the thousand-year-old hot spring and relieve travel fatigue Enjoy the warm lights of the old street at night and savor the peaceful small-town nightscape Day 2 Relax with a morning soak in the Asayu hot spring and breathe in the fresh mountain air Visit the Ueda City Museum for an in-depth look at local history and culture Leisurely explore the hot spring street, browse handmade shops and long-established wagashi stores Take a slow walk through city alleys to experience the everyday life of a Japanese small town before heading back 🏨Accommodation recommendations Century-old hot spring inn: featuring the thousand-year-old hot spring, includes one night with two meals, offering a Japanese healing resort experience Comfortable city hotel: close to the station, convenient for travel, ideal for short trips Affordable Japanese guesthouse: clean and cozy, great value, a top choice for niche travelers 🍜Food recommendations Signature hand-rolled soba noodles, authentic mountain vegetable set meals Rich miso hot pot, Japanese charcoal-grilled skewers Exquisite traditional wagashi, local sake, authentic regional flavors without risk 💡Travel tips 1. Ueda is a hidden gem with very few tourists, offering an excellent travel experience 2. It’s best to book hot spring inns in advance; those including breakfast and dinner offer the best value 3. The spring cherry blossoms and autumn maple seasons offer stunning scenery perfect for Japanese-style photos 4. Very close to Nagano, so you can combine sightseeing in Nagano for a fuller trip Avoid the crowds and head to this healing Japanese old town. Perfect for a short trip to copy exactly!

I stayed for a night in June. The weather was mostly cloudy on our first day, but we were able to have our luggage transported by bus from the parking lot to the hotel. This allowed us to enjoy a leisurely hour-long walk, taking in the sights of the pasture and the Utsukushi-no-Tou (Tower of Beauty). The path is mostly flat, making it a wonderful stroll where you can truly appreciate the scenery. Our room offered a breathtaking, sweeping view of the Northern Alps. That alone made the trip completely worth it. Before dinner, we relaxed with welcome drinks and enjoyed the private bath. For dinner, we were served a chopstick-friendly course meal featuring local Shinshu ingredients. Every dish was meticulously prepared and absolutely delicious. The next morning, we watched the sunrise with coffee and muffins, followed by a tour of the blooming Japanese azalea fields. From these morning activities to breakfast, we had such a fulfilling time. On our way back, we took the bus to the parking lot but decided to hop off halfway for a short, pleasant walk. We were able to savor the beautiful landscapes of Utsukushigahara right up until the end. What stood out the most was the warm hospitality from all the staff. They were so friendly and approachable, making our stay incredibly comfortable. It’s easy to see why this hotel is so hard to book—I would absolutely love to stay here again.

The Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum is a highly recommended spot for museum enthusiasts and art lovers alike. Located in Nagano Prefecture, it's about a 1.5-hour drive from Matsumoto and just under an hour from Ueda. 　 After navigating the winding mountain roads, you'll suddenly encounter a vast open space displaying countless works of art. 🏤 Utsukushigahara Open-Air Museum → After purchasing your ticket, step out from the building into the garden to come face-to-face with the art. You can enjoy masterpieces by both domestic and international artists in a luxurious setting that borrows the spectacular Japanese Alps as its backdrop. It's a space you can fully enjoy even if you aren't an art expert. It leaves you with a magical sensation, almost as if you are standing above the clouds. Believe it or not, admission to the museum is only 1,000 yen. I guarantee the experience will be worth far more than the price of the ticket. Be sure to pay it a visit.

do you know how many calories is in one of these things?

Japan isn’t just about bustling cities — it’s also home to some of the most breathtaking hiking routes, where nature quietly takes center stage. At Utsukushigahara Highlands, endless green plateaus stretch beneath wide open skies. The trails are gentle and beginner-friendly, yet the views feel grand — on clear days, you might even catch a glimpse of Mount Fuji in the distance. Further south, Mount Nokogiri offers a more dramatic experience. Known for its steep cliffs and the famous “Hell’s Peek” viewpoint, this hike blends adventure with spirituality, as ancient temples are hidden among the rocks. If you’re looking for something peaceful, Mount Misen is a perfect escape. The trail winds through lush forests and giant stones, opening up to stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea — quiet, calm, and almost meditative. And then there’s Shosenkyo Gorge, often called one of the most beautiful gorges in Japan. Walking along the river, surrounded by towering cliffs and waterfalls, feels like stepping into a living painting. ⸻ ✨ Each route has its own rhythm — from easy scenic walks to more adventurous climbs — but all share the same quiet magic that makes Japan’s nature so unforgettable #japantrip #travel2026 #staycation

A hot spring I've been wanting to visit but haven't been able to because it's too far away Even though it's deep in the mountains of Nagano, the parking lot was full and it was very popular. They also hold many events, and I love their website; it's very stylish. Jizō Onsen Spa JippukuNoYu is a popular day-trip hot spring surrounded by forest, located at Jizō Pass (elevation 975m) in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture. Its main attraction is its spacious open-air bath, said to be one of the largest in Nagano Prefecture, where you can relax while enjoying a forest bath. · Address: 9097-70, Sanada-machi, Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture · Opening Hours: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM (Last entry 8:30 PM) · Parking: 150 spaces

For fans of Japan's Sengoku (Warring States) period, a visit to Nagano's Ueda Castle is the ultimate pilgrimage to ignite your inner "Sanada soul"! Despite its seemingly modest scale, this flatland castle hides unbelievable defensive prowess. Back in the day, Sanada Masayuki leveraged brilliant strategies and the natural terrain to twice repel Tokugawa forces that vastly outnumbered his own. It stands as one of the most legendary, adrenaline-pumping underdog stories in Sengoku history. Walking through the imposing Higashi-Koguchi Yagura Gate and touching the massive, legendary "Sanada Stone" will leave you deeply moved by that unyielding samurai spirit. Today, the castle ruins are not only designated as one of Japan's Top 100 Castles, but they also serve as a relaxing public park. The Sanada Shrine on the grounds is a massively popular spot for visitors praying for "certain victory." It is especially magical in the spring when the famous "Senbonzakura" (Thousand Cherry Trees) are in full bloom, creating a truly dreamy scene of delicate pink petals contrasting with the ancient gates. This is a magnificent historic castle that doesn't rely on a flashy main keep to impress; instead, it captures your heart with its legacy of tactical genius and sheer resilience. It is absolutely worth experiencing in person!

This is Bessho Onsen in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, Japan, also affectionately known as "Little Kamakura of Shinshu." It is the oldest thousand-year-old secret hot spring town in Nagano. The entire town is surrounded by green mountains and lush vegetation, with cherry blossoms and wisteria blooming along the quaint Japanese machiya houses. Stone-paved paths, vintage hot spring buildings, and countryside slopes stretching toward distant mountains make time pass especially slowly here. There are no crowded crowds, only the healing, relaxed atmosphere of the Japanese countryside. 🌿Simple Travel Tips 🍃Transportation Guide Take the Shinkansen from Tokyo for about 75 minutes directly to Ueda Station, then transfer to a local train for half an hour to reach Bessho Onsen Station. You can explore the entire town on foot right after exiting the station. 🍃Best Time to Visit Spring cherry blossoms, early summer fresh greenery, and autumn foliage are all perfect for visiting. It is recommended to reserve half a day to a full day for a leisurely stroll without rushing. 🍃Must-See Highlights 💐Three classic public outdoor baths: Oyu, Ishiyu, and Taishiyu, where you can experience the thousand-year-old beauty hot springs at an affordable price. 💐Ancient temples like Kitamuki Kannon and Anrakuji, to feel the profound Zen atmosphere of traditional Japanese temples. 💐Stroll and wander through the hot spring town, with streets blooming with cherry blossoms and wisteria perfect for casual photos. 💐View the entire town and the distant mountain ranges from the high slopes, offering a super healing panorama. 🍃Vegetarian Snacks and Rest Stops The town’s streets are lined with many refreshing vegetarian Japanese-style foods such as soba noodles, warabi mochi, traditional sweets, and handmade confections. Stop anytime to rest and taste. 🍃Travel Tips ✨The town’s roads are gentle and flat with zero hiking difficulty, making leisurely walks stress-free. ✨Public outdoor baths are affordable, allowing you to enjoy natural hot springs at a very low cost per person. ✨Quiet and uncrowded with a great atmosphere, perfect for short trips to escape the hustle and bustle and relax and heal.

While Okinawa is a great place for road trips, the driving habits and visibility will differ between left- and right-hand drive. If you're going to a less urban or rural area, I sincerely recommend that the driver be someone with more driving experience and good driving ethics. After all, some roads are narrower and more like industrial roads. This is not only for your own enjoyment and safety during your trip, but also for the safety of others.

On my first day in Nagano, I took the JR train to Ueda Station, officially beginning my short trip to Shinshu 🚃. Currently, Ueda Station doesn't accept Suica cards for exiting, so even if you swipe your card to enter at Nagano Station, you still need to pay with cash upon arrival. However, the good news is—I heard that Suica and electronic payments are expected to be fully supported this March, making travel much more convenient in the future 👏. 🚉 A low-key yet gloriously decorated city Ueda is located on the main route to Karuizawa and Tokyo. Although not a large city, it holds a significant place in Japanese Sengoku history. This is the site of Sanada Maru, the stronghold of the Sanada Yukimura clan. On the walk from the station to the Ueda Castle ruins, you pass by the ancient battlefield. Images of galloping warhorses and fluttering banners involuntarily floated into my mind ⚔️. Although the castle itself no longer exists, and only the western and southern turrets remain, the castle ruins park still offers plenty to see: ⛩️ Sanada Shrine: Dedicated to the Sanada family, its atmosphere is solemn yet somewhat heroic. 🏛️ Ueda City Museum: Through models, historical materials, and animations, it recreates the classic battle between the Sanada army and Tokugawa Ieyasu. Even those who aren't history buffs can easily understand it, making it surprisingly enjoyable to visit. 🍜 Showa-era local delicacy: Tenhou At noon, we headed to AEON Mall, aiming for Tenhou Ramen, a favorite among locals. This is a long-established ramen shop founded in the Showa era, offering affordable prices and a wide variety of choices. Even before lunchtime, the shop was already about 80% full, demonstrating its popularity. After ramen, we strolled around AEON Mall. It was the weekend, and the place was packed with families and kids, creating a lively and vibrant atmosphere—truly authentic local life 🛍️. 🚌 An Unexpected Skiing Surprise While walking back to the station, I discovered there was a highway bus right in front of the station that goes directly to the Sugataira Kogen Ski Resort! After checking some information, I found out that this is actually a hidden gem of a ski resort 🎿 with large slopes and relatively few crowds. The surrounding area has plenty of guesthouses and restaurants. If you want to save on accommodation costs, you can even choose to stay at the Toyoko Inn in front of the station and take the bus to and from the ski resort every day. This setup is so clever 😎 I silently added it to my "Next Year's Ski Season Candidate List" in my mind. My first day in Nagano started perfectly, inspired by history, ramen, and the ski resort. Some cities don't need too much noise to make you want to come back again. #UedaCastleRuins #SanadaMaru #NaganoTravel #ShowaRamen #SkiTraveler

#JanuaryDestinations2026 Stepping into the Ninomaru Ruins of Ueda Castle, you'll find a very special building: the Ueda City Museum. If you're a Sengoku period history enthusiast, or came here after watching the Taiga drama *Sanada Maru*, this is a must-see! The museum houses a large collection of precious artifacts from the Sanada family, including the armor worn by Sanada Masayuki, his weapons, and tactical maps used against the Tokugawa army. Looking at these authentic items from hundreds of years ago, you can understand why the Sanada family was known as "Japan's Number One Warrior." Besides the Sanada family, the museum also displays artifacts from the Sengoku and Matsudaira clans who later took over Ueda Castle, providing a complete picture of the historical changes of this "everlasting castle." 🔍 Insider Highlights: 1. Rokumonsen: The Sanada family crest, the "rokumonsen," is visible throughout the museum, symbolizing the samurai's spirit of facing death (the fare for crossing the Sanzu River), and is incredibly cool. 2. Annex: The ticket usually includes the adjacent "Yamamoto Cauldron Memorial Museum," where you can also view the artworks. 💰 Ticket Information: · General Admission: Adults approximately NT$65 (300 yen). · Package Deal: If you want to see the turret gate as well, there's a general package ticket for approximately NT$110 (500 yen), which is great value.

#JanuaryDestinations2026 When visiting Ueda Castle in Nagano Prefecture, the first photo everyone takes is undoubtedly here! This is the "Ninomaru Bridge" (二の丸桥), connecting the Ninomaru and Honmaru (main castle). This red bridge spans the lush, empty moat (formerly a watercourse, now a pedestrian walkway on the former tram tracks), directly facing the imposing "East Tiger Mouth Turret Gate." This scene is the symbol of Ueda Castle! The red railings, gray stone walls, and black and white gate create a striking color contrast. Standing on the Ninomaru Bridge, imagining how Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige) and his father Masayuki used the rugged terrain to defeat Tokugawa Ieyasu's massive army with fewer troops truly evokes a sense of patriotic fervor! 🔥 🌟 Photography Tips: 1. Under-bridge view: Don't just walk on the bridge; walk along the walkway under the bridge and shoot upwards. This will allow you to capture the towering castle walls and the layered effect of the red bridge. 2. Legend of the Giant Rock: Next to the entrance is a 3-meter-diameter "Sanada Stone," said to be a giant rock that Sanada Nobuyuki tried to move but couldn't. Be sure to look for it. 📍 Attraction Information: · Attraction Name: Ueda Castle Ruins Park (Ninomaru Ruins) · Admission: Free all day. · Climbing the Turret Gate: Admission to the interior of the turret gate requires an entrance fee of approximately NT$65 (300 yen).

Utsukushigahara Plateau Late-night departure from Nagoya🚗 Sea of ​​clouds, grasslands, and a castle in the sky A must-see destination #DomesticTravel #UtsukushigaharaPlateau #Nagano

#planliburan The Top Spots in Ako: Locations & Details 1. Iwatsuhime Shrine The Vibe: A historic shrine dedicated to the goddess of the sea. Details: Famous for its stone Torii gate that frames the Seto Inland Sea perfectly, it is a popular spot to pray for safety at sea and good fortune in relationships. 2. Ikushima The Vibe: A mystical, sacred island floating in Sakakoshi Bay. Details: This uninhabited island is covered in primeval forest and has been protected as a sacred site for centuries, lending a spiritual atmosphere to the Sakakoshi coastline. 3. Ichimai-no-E The Vibe: A serene Terrace Cafe by the sea. Details: The name translates to "A Single Painting," reflecting how the massive windows frame the ocean like a work of art while you enjoy artisanal coffee. 4. Ako Hyogo Prefectural Seaside Park The Vibe: A massive family-friendly park celebrating Ako’s heritage. Details: It features salt-making workshops, an amusement park, and expansive greenery perfect for a day out by the water. 5. Momoi Museum The Vibe: A fusion of traditional "Onigawara" roof tile art and modern scenery. Details: Visitors can enjoy outdoor art installations and a relaxing footbath while overlooking the sea. 6. AMAMITERRAS The Vibe: A chic, modern cafe and shop focused on Ako’s salt culture. Details: It offers "salt sweets" and a stylish terrace view, making it a perfect stop after visiting the nearby shrines. 7. Kirakira-zaka The Vibe: The famous "Sparkling Slope". Details: A picturesque stone-paved path lined with glass mosaics and Mediterranean-style cafes that leads directly down to the ocean. 8. Tenmasen The Vibe: A nostalgic nod to Ako’s maritime history. Details: Named after traditional wooden rowing boats, this spot offers a rustic atmosphere to enjoy local flavors and sea views. 9. Shiosai Kirara Syokichi The Vibe: A luxury hot spring experience. Details: Renowned for its "infinity" outdoor baths where the hot spring water seems to merge seamlessly with the Seto Inland Sea. 10. Daruma Asahi at Akhozaki The Vibe: The rare and lucky "Dharma Sunrise". Details: Seen from the Akhozaki cape, this phenomenon occurs when temperature mirages make the rising sun look like a traditional Daruma doll.

#JanuaryDestinations2026 A trip to Ueda City in Nagano Prefecture will absolutely excite history buffs! Here stands Ueda Castle, built by the Sengoku period general Sanada Masayuki, and the starting point of the legendary story of Sanada Yukimura (Nobushige). The castle's most remarkable feat was twice repelling the massive army led by Tokugawa Ieyasu, earning it the title of "Immortal Castle" with the strongest defenses! 🛡️ Although now a park, the Ninomaru area retains many important historical sites. Once a crucial defensive line protecting the main castle (Honmaru), it now serves as a spacious plaza connecting the entrance to the shrine. Especially in spring, it transforms into the main venue for the "Ueda Castle Senbonzakura Festival," where thousands of cherry trees bloom simultaneously, creating a breathtakingly beautiful pink sea of ​​blossoms against the backdrop of Sengoku-era stone walls! 🌸 📝 Complete Castle Siege Guide: 1. 📸 Classic Angle: Ninomaru Bridge To take the coolest photo of Ueda Castle, you must stand on the Ninomaru Bridge and shoot inwards! From here, you can capture the vermilion bridge, the massive stone walls, and the majestic Higashi-kochi Tsubame-no-Mago (East Tiger Mouth Gate) in the background. This is the standard cover photo on every travel guide and poster; not taking a picture here is like not having been there at all! 🌉 2. 🚂 Remains of the Abandoned Railway Line: Keiyaki Forest Path The remains of the old moat surrounding the Ninomaru Castle have now been transformed into a beautiful "Keiyaki Forest Path." A little-known fact only insiders know: this path was actually a "train track (Ueda Kotsu Sanada-Hōyō Line)"! Although the railway is now abandoned, strolling along the bottom of the moat where trains once ran, looking at the towering zelkova trees and stone walls on both sides, creates a unique sense of temporal displacement. 🛤️ 3. ⛩️ Pray for Good Fortune at Sanada Shrine Passing through the Ninomaru and entering the Honmaru, you'll find the famous Sanada Shrine. Because this castle was never conquered, the legend of its "Never-Falling Castle" has become a symbol of "passing exams without fail (passing)." If you or your friends and family need to take an exam or have an interview, be sure to buy an "Never-Falling" amulet—it's incredibly lucky! 🙏 4. ⚔️ Weekend-Limited "Sanada Warrior Team" If you visit on a weekend or holiday, you might encounter the "Shinshu Ueda Hospitality Warrior Team" dressed in full armor at the Ninomaru Plaza! These handsome warriors, dressed as Sanada Yukimura and his ten brave warriors, will kindly take photos with you, provide guided tours, and even put on exciting martial arts performances—the level of realism is incredibly high!

Jizō Onsen Spa Jippuku-no-Yu: A Hidden Forest Sanctuary Nestled in the serene mountains of Ueda, Nagano, Jizō Onsen Spa Jippuku-no-Yu is a rustic hot spring retreat that offers a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of c#travel2026 ity life. The name "Jippuku-no-Yu" translates to "The Spring of Ten Blessings," hinting at the healing and rejuvenating properties of its natural waters. Key Features · Majestic Outdoor Baths (Rotenburo): This spa is famous for having one of the largest open-air baths in the region. Surrounded by lush forest scenery, visitors can soak in the mineral-rich waters while listening to the sounds of nature. · Rustic Architecture: The entrance is marked by impressive, massive wooden pillars and whimsical wood carvings (like the owl and Jizo figure seen in your photo), giving the place a warm, traditional, and welcoming atmosphere. · Healing Waters: The water is known for its skin-smoothing properties and its ability to relieve fatigue and muscle pain. · Culinary Delights: Beyond the bath, the facility is highly rated for its food. They serve fresh, local Nagano specialties, including handmade soba noodles and stone-baked pizzas. The Atmosphere The vibe is "forest-luxury meets countryside charm." Whether you visit during the snowy winter to enjoy a "snow-viewing bath" or during the green summer months, the facility provides a deeply calming experience that connects you with the Japanese wilderness.

I've been here for 10 years and I've seen this ramen shop selling well every day. #Delicious in Uweda #Japanese Ramen