Ueda Castle Ninomaru Ruins

Ueda Castle Ninomaru Ruins stand as a significant historical site in Ueda City, Nagano Prefecture, preserving the legacy of one of Japan's most strategic fortifications. The castle was originally constructed in 1583 by Sanada Masayuki, a renowned daimyo and military tactician of the Sengoku period. The site gained historical prominence through two major sieges, the First Battle of Ueda in 1585 and the Second Battle of Ueda in 1600, where the Sanada forces successfully defended against the vastly superior armies of Tokugawa Ieyasu. These victories established the Sanada clan's reputation for brilliant military strategy despite limited resources.

The Ninomaru, or second bailey, served as an essential defensive layer of the castle complex. While much of the original castle structure was dismantled in 1626 following the Sanada clan's relocation, the stone walls and layout of the Ninomaru ruins remain visible today. The site is now part of Ueda Castle Park, which occupies approximately 5.8 hectares and combines the historical ruins with seasonal natural beauty. The park features over 1,000 cherry trees that draw visitors during spring, transforming the grounds into a celebrated hanami spot.

Visitors can explore the remaining stone foundations, reconstructed gates including the Yagura-mon Gate, and the Sanada Shrine dedicated to the Sanada family. The adjacent Ueda City Museum provides detailed exhibits on the castle's history, the Sanada clan's military achievements, and artifacts from the feudal era. Walking paths wind through the park grounds, offering views of the original moat and earthwork fortifications that demonstrate medieval Japanese castle architecture and defense systems.

The ruins are located approximately 12 minutes on foot from Ueda Station on the JR Hokuriku Shinkansen and Shinano Railway lines. From Tokyo, the journey takes roughly 90 minutes via shinkansen. Entry to the castle ruins and park grounds is free, though the Ueda City Museum charges an admission fee of 300 yen for adults. The central location in Ueda City makes the site easily accessible for travelers exploring Nagano Prefecture's historical attractions.