When is the best time to visit the statue?

Early mornings on weekdays offer fewer crowds for unobstructed photos. The statue is particularly scenic during cherry blossom season (late March to early April) when surrounding trees bloom, though this is also the busiest period.

Are there English information signs at the statue?

Yes. Information plaques near the statue provide historical context in both Japanese and English, explaining Saigo Takamori's role in the Meiji Restoration and the Satsuma Rebellion. Additional information is available at the nearby Ueno Park visitor center.

How far is the statue from other major Tokyo attractions?

The statue is in Ueno, approximately 5 kilometers north of Tokyo Station. From the statue, Asakusa and Senso-ji Temple are 2 kilometers northeast (about 10 minutes by train). Akihabara is 2 kilometers south. Tokyo Skytree is visible from parts of Ueno Park and located 3 kilometers east.

What other statues or monuments are in Ueno Park?

Ueno Park contains several notable monuments including the Statue of Kiyomizu Kannon, the Statue of Noguchi Hideyo (bacteriologist), and the Memorial to the Shogitai (warriors who defended the shogunate). The park also features the Tokugawa Yoshinobu Memorial and various commemorative stones marking historical events.

Statue of Saigo, Ueno Park

4.2 (2495)SculptureHistorical LandmarkTourist AttractionHistorical PlacePoint Of InterestEstablishment

The Statue of Saigo Takamori stands at the main entrance to Ueno Park in Tokyo's Taito Ward, commemorating one of Japan's most influential historical figures. Unveiled in 1898, the bronze statue depicts Saigo Takamori in an informal hunting outfit accompanied by his dog, a deliberate choice that reflects his preference for simplicity over military regalia. The statue was created by sculptor Takamura Koun, with the dog sculpted by his pupil Goto Kouji.

Saigo Takamori played a pivotal role in the Meiji Restoration of 1868, leading imperial forces that helped overthrow the Tokugawa shogunate and restore power to Emperor Meiji. Despite his contributions to modernizing Japan, he later became disillusioned with the new government's direction and led the Satsuma Rebellion in 1877, the last major samurai uprising against the Meiji regime. He died during this conflict but was posthumously pardoned in 1889, becoming a symbol of samurai honor and loyalty. The statue has since become an iconic meeting point and a symbol of Ueno Park itself.

Visitors can view the statue freely at any time, as it stands in an open public area near the park's Ueno Station entrance. The surrounding area features cherry blossom trees, making it particularly popular during spring. Many tourists photograph the statue as part of their Ueno Park visit, which also includes nearby attractions such as the Tokyo National Museum, Ueno Zoo, and several art museums. The statue's informal depiction offers an interesting contrast to more formal military monuments found elsewhere in Japan.

Access to the statue is straightforward from Ueno Station, which connects multiple train lines including the JR Yamanote Line, JR Keihin-Tohoku Line, Tokyo Metro Ginza Line, and Tokyo Metro Hibiya Line. Take the Park Exit and the statue appears immediately within one minute's walk. There is no admission fee to view the statue or enter this section of Ueno Park.

What other travelers are saying about Statue of Saigo, Ueno Park

A cultural educational event was taking place, explaining the depths of what it was to be a samurai with demonstrations. Thank you for the lecture!

Marin “SayanMk” Kolev

Dec 31, 2025

The bronze statue stands near the central promenade of Ueno Park, a large public park next to Ueno Station in Taito City, Tokyo. It depicts Saigō Takamori, a key samurai leader of the Meiji Restoration, dressed in a simple kimono and walking with his dog, which matches the statue in your photo.

The statue of Saigō Takamori—often referred to as ‘The Last Samurai’—is accessible via the stairs within Ueno Park. A pivotal figure in Japanese history, Saigō played a central role in the Meiji Restoration, helping to overthrow the Tokugawa Shogunate and establish the Meiji government. Ironically, he later led the Satsuma Rebellion, becoming a symbol of samurai resistance to rapid modernization, where he met his end. A must-see for those interested in Japan’s transformative past.

Nice area to walk around. Especially the fountain side of the Ueno park. Crowded though. We came here in the evening as the sun was setting. Lovely experience

This Ueno Park is quite a cooling place for tourists to rest and enjoy watching water fountains shoot up in the air. I liked seeing the fountains in the background of the Tokyo National Museum where water was reflected by the sky and sunlight. It also had flower beds of tulips in stone pots that had decorated the fountains beautifully at the Ueno Park surrounding every side of it.