Yonezawa Castle Ruins / Matsugamisaki Park

The site of the Yonezawa Castle’s main citadel was developed into a park in 1956. The moat and stone walls remain, and the Uesugi Shrine and Ritshoden are located within the park, making it a tourist center of Yonezawa City. It is also a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Area: 4.40 ha

The water-filled moat in Matsugamisaki Park reminds us of Yonezawa Castle in the past. It is an attractive spot for history buffs, dotted with historical sites of the Uesugi family, including Kenshin Uesugi, who is said to be the most powerful military commander in the Warring States period, and Takayama Uesugi, known for his words “Narashimetanaru, nazimashimashimashimashita,” or “I can do anything, I must do anything. Uesugi Shrine, which is said to be blessed with good fortune and the fulfillment of various wishes in honor of Kenshin Uesugi, and Uesugi Shrine Kishoden, which exhibits many important cultural assets, mainly artifacts of the Uesugi family, are also on the premises. There is also a stone monument marking the birthplace of Date Masamune, the famous Dokuganryu, or Dokugan Dragon.

The area is also famous for its cherry blossoms, and usually in mid to late April, 200 cherry trees bloom along the water moat. The contrast between the cherry blossoms reflected on the surface of the moat and the red bridge across the moat is elegant and photogenic. In late October and early November, the cherry blossoms turn brilliantly red, delighting the eyes of visitors.

Near the park, there is “Matsumisaki Shrine” dedicated to Takayama Uesugi and others, and “Yonezawa Castle Historical Park” where you can enjoy local delicacies and a wide variety of souvenirs. Please be sure to stop by.