Question 1

How do I get there from Yonezawa Station?

Accepted Answer

Take the city loop bus (clockwise route) from JR Yonezawa Station, get off at Uesugi-jinja-mae and the shrine is right there (about 10 minutes). By taxi it takes about 5-10 minutes. Walking from the station takes about 20-25 minutes.

Question 2

What is the snow lantern festival?

Accepted Answer

The Uesugi Snow Lantern Festival is held on the second Saturday in February and the following day. More than 300 snow lanterns are set out in Matsugasaki Park around the shrine grounds, and the warm candlelight creates a magical atmosphere.

Question 3

When is the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival held?

Accepted Answer

From 29 April to 3 May each year. The highlights are the Uesugi procession, with over a thousand people in armour, and a re-enactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima, drawing large numbers of visitors.

Question 4

What blessings is the shrine known for?

Accepted Answer

In keeping with Uesugi Kenshin, it is said to bring good fortune, the granting of wishes, success in study and prosperity in business. It is one of Japan's best-known shrines dedicated to a warlord and draws many visitors.

Question 5

Are there other sights nearby?

Accepted Answer

Matsugasaki Park adjoins the grounds, and close by are the Uesugi family mausoleum, a historic site where the successive lords are entombed (separate admission), and the Denkoku-no-Mori Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum, where you can learn about the family's history.

Question 6

Is it also known for cherry blossom?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Matsugasaki Park around Uesugi Shrine is known for its cherry blossom, with about 200 trees in bloom along the moat in mid to late April. This often coincides with the Uesugi Festival, so you can see the blossom and the festival together.

Question 7

What are the highlights of the Keishoden treasure hall?

Accepted Answer

It displays many Important Cultural Properties connected with the Uesugi family, including Naoe Kanetsugu's famous helmet bearing the character for love, and Uesugi Kenshin's armour, swords and paintings. It is especially rewarding for anyone interested in history or the Warring States period.

Question 8

Can I get a goshuin stamp?

Accepted Answer

Goshuin stamps are available at the shrine office. The stamp bearing seals connected with Uesugi Kenshin is popular with visitors. Please check the official website for reception hours.

Question 9

Is there a charge to visit?

Accepted Answer

Visiting the grounds is free. Entry to the Keishoden treasure hall is charged: adults 400 yen, high school students 200 yen, junior high school age and under 100 yen. Please see the official website for details.

Question 10

What are the highlights of Uesugi Shrine?

Accepted Answer

The Maizuru Bridge on the approach, flying the Bi and Ryu war banners (a registered tangible cultural property), the imposing main hall, and the Keishoden treasure hall with Naoe Kanetsugu's helmet bearing the character for love and Uesugi Kenshin's armour. Statues of Uesugi Kenshin and Uesugi Yozan also stand in the grounds.

Question 11

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

There is parking in Matsugasaki Park. It can be busy and restricted during events such as the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival, so public transport is also recommended.

Question 12

What is the address?

Accepted Answer

1-4-13 Marunouchi, Yonezawa City, Yamagata Prefecture

Question 13

How much is admission?

Accepted Answer

Visiting the grounds is free. Keishoden treasure hall: adults 400 yen, high school students 200 yen, junior high school age and under 100 yen.

Question 14

When is it closed?

Accepted Answer

The grounds are open all year round (Keishoden hours vary by season).

Question 15

What are the visiting hours?

Accepted Answer

The grounds are open at any time (the Keishoden treasure hall is open about 9:00-16:00).

Question 16

How do I get there?

Accepted Answer

About 10 minutes on the city loop bus from JR Yonezawa Station, alighting at Uesugi-jinja-mae. Or about 5-10 minutes by taxi from Yonezawa Station.

Question 17

Is there parking?

Accepted Answer

Parking is available. Please check the official information for details.

How can we help you?

Quick categories