Ueno Park

Overview

Ueno Park is a sprawling park centered around Iga Ueno Castle, a place where you can fully immerse yourself in history and nature. Iga Ueno Castle was originally built by Todo Takatora, a warlord of Iga Province during the Sengoku period. Its magnificent stone walls and imposing keep are truly breathtaking. The castle keep, in particular, sits atop incredibly high stone walls, among the tallest in Japan, creating a dramatic and captivating sight for visitors. Inside the castle, you'll find precious cultural artifacts on display, including Todo Takatora's black lacquered helmet and a folding screen depicting wisteria by Kano Naganobu. Within the park, you'll discover historical sites such as the Haiseiden, dedicated to the haiku master Matsuo Basho, and a ninja house that showcases the history of Iga, known as the land of ninjas. The Haiseiden features Basho's haiku tablets and related items, offering a glimpse into his world. The ninja house allows you to explore ninja tools and their way of life. Ueno Park also boasts stunning seasonal scenery. In spring, the park is awash in a sea of pink cherry blossoms. Autumn brings a vibrant display of crimson and gold as the leaves change color. Ueno Park is a quintessential Iga tourist destination, offering a perfect blend of history and nature. Be sure to visit!