How do I get to Matsugasaki Park?

The park is about a 10-minute bus ride or taxi ride from Yonezawa Station. Visitors can also walk from the station in about 20–30 minutes. There are parking spaces nearby for those coming by car.

What is the weather like in Matsugasaki Park?

Yonezawa has cold winters with snow, warm summers, and mild spring and autumn seasons. The park looks especially beautiful under the snow in winter and during cherry blossom season in spring.

Can I rent a bicycle to explore the area?

Yes, Yonezawa offers bicycle rental services near the station, making it easy to explore Matsugasaki Park and other attractions nearby.

Does Matsugasaki Park have an entrance fee?

No, Matsugasaki Park is free to visit. However, some nearby attractions, like the Uesugi Museum, may charge a small entrance fee.

When is the best time to visit?

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit. In early April, cherry blossoms bloom along the moat, making it a popular spot for hanami (flower viewing). In autumn, the park is full of bright red and yellow leaves. The Yonezawa Uesugi Festival in April is another great time to visit, as it features samurai battle reenactments.

A scenic river lined with blooming cherry blossom trees on both sides, with a red arched bridge crossing the water under a bright blue sky. People are visible on the bridge, enjoying the spring scenery.

Cherry blossom trees with pink flowers line the edge of a calm water pond under a blue sky with scattered clouds. The trees and sky are reflected in the water, creating a peaceful spring scene.

Cherry blossom trees in full bloom line both sides of a calm river, reflecting their pink and white flowers. The sky is blue with scattered clouds, and lush greenery surrounds the scene.

Yamagata

Matsugasaki Park

4.1 (3096)ParkTourist AttractionPoint Of InterestEstablishment

Last updated May 31, 2026

Matsugasaki Park in Yonezawa, Yamagata Prefecture, is a historic site where Yonezawa Castle once stood. Though the castle is gone, its stone walls, gates, and moats remain, giving a glimpse of the past. The park is connected to Uesugi Kenshin, a famous warlord, and is home to Uesugi Shrine, which honors his legacy. A small museum in the park displays artifacts and stories about the Uesugi family, helping visitors learn more about Yonezawa’s history.

The park is especially beautiful in spring when cherry blossoms bloom along the moat, creating a peaceful and colorful scene. During the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival in April, visitors can watch reenactments of historical battles. In autumn, the trees turn bright red and yellow, making the park a great place to enjoy the season. With its mix of history and nature, Matsugasaki Park is a relaxing spot for visitors to explore Yonezawa’s past and enjoy the scenery.

Phone

+81 238-21-6226

Website

yamagatakanko.com

Overview

Address

1-chōme-4-13 Marunouchi, Yonezawa, Yamagata 992-0052, Japan

Traveler reviews

Visiting the statue of Uesugi Yōzan felt like closing a long chapter that began the moment I first read about him — a teenage lord suddenly entrusted with the impossible task of reviving a collapsing domain. His story stayed with me: the discipline, the reforms, the quiet determination to lift an entire clan back onto its feet. Standing before his statue today, I felt that same spirit of resilience echoing through time. I arrived the day before the Uesugi Festival, and the whole area was already alive. Food stalls were being inspected, vendors were preparing for the crowds, and people were gathering to pay their respects to Uesugi Kenshin and Uesugi Yōzan. The sun was bright, the air warm, and I couldn’t help thinking how lucky I was — tomorrow and the following days will be rain, but today was perfect. The pond beside the shrine was full of huge koi gliding through the water, moving slowly like they had all the time in the world. Watching them, surrounded by history and anticipation, I felt a quiet happiness. It was as if Yōzan had quietly guided me to come on this perfect day. It isn’t the Hidane fire itself, but I will carry a small light inspired by it, just as Yōzan hoped future generations would.

Sandeman 1790

Apr 30, 2026

A beautiful historic location, great not only for families to stroll and admire the beauty of the park, but also for those fascinated by Japan's feudal history, particularly of the Uesugi Clan. I went during the Uesugi Lantern Festival and the atmosphere was fantastic. I first went on the night the lanterns were first lit, which was pretty magical, especially seeing the (then bare) sakura trees lit up alongside the moat leading the eye to a beautiful red bridge also lit up. The next day the festival was in full swing, with food carts out selling classing Japanese festival food fare as well as souvenirs. The energy was fantastic, watching kids have snowball fights and couples taking pictures with the lanterns it was truly picturesque. I wuold love to return when the cherry blossom are in full bloom and to learn more of the Uesugi Shrine!