https://www.dekitabi.com/itinerary/iga-ueno-walking-tour
Nestled in the scenic hills of Mie Prefecture, Japan, lies the quaint and historically rich city of Iga-Ueno. Renowned for its connection to the ninja, this city is a fascinating blend of history, culture, and picturesque landscapes. Whether you’re a history buff, a ninja enthusiast, or simply a traveler looking for a unique destination, Iga-Ueno promises an experience like no other.
A Brief Historical Overview
Iga-Ueno’s history dates back to the feudal era of Japan when it was a strategic location for samurai and ninja alike. The Iga region, characterized by its mountainous terrain and dense forests, provided an ideal setting for the covert activities of ninjas. These skilled spies and assassins played crucial roles during the Sengoku (Warring States) period, engaging in espionage, sabotage, and guerrilla warfare.
The city’s historical significance is most prominently embodied in Iga Ueno Castle. Originally built in the late 16th century by Takatora Todo, the castle stands as a testament to the architectural prowess of the era. Although parts of the castle have been reconstructed, the original stone walls and moat remain intact, offering a glimpse into the past.
The Ninja Museum of Igaryu
No visit to Iga-Ueno is complete without exploring the Ninja Museum of Igaryu. This museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing the history and techniques of the Iga ninja. Visitors can delve into the world of ninjas through a variety of exhibits, including authentic ninja tools, weapons, and clothing. The museum also features a detailed history of the ninja, debunking many myths and revealing the true nature of their roles in Japanese society.
One of the museum’s highlights is the Ninja House, a reconstructed ninja residence complete with hidden doors, trapdoors, and secret compartments. Guided tours offer fascinating insights into the ingenuity of ninja architecture and the various tricks ninjas used to evade capture. Additionally, live ninja shows demonstrate martial arts techniques, weapon skills, and acrobatics, providing an entertaining and educational experience for all ages.
Iga Ueno Castle and Ueno Park
Iga Ueno Castle, also known as Hakuho Castle, is a striking landmark that offers panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle’s main keep, reconstructed in 1935, houses a museum that exhibits samurai armor, weapons, and artifacts from the Edo period. Visitors can climb to the top of the keep to enjoy breathtaking views of Ueno Park and the city below.
Ueno Park, located adjacent to the castle, is a serene and picturesque spot perfect for a leisurely stroll. The park is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in spring when the trees are in full bloom, creating a stunning canopy of pink flowers. The park also features the Ueno Tenjin Shrine, dedicated to Sugawara no Michizane, a renowned scholar and poet. This shrine is a popular spot for locals to pray for success in their studies and careers.
Danjiri Festival
Iga-Ueno is also famous for its vibrant Danjiri Festival, held annually in October. This lively festival features elaborate wooden floats (danjiri) adorned with lanterns, carvings, and tapestries. The floats are paraded through the streets of Iga-Ueno, accompanied by traditional music and dance performances. The festival is a celebration of the city’s rich cultural heritage and attracts visitors from all over Japan.
One of the most exciting aspects of the Danjiri Festival is the night parade, where the floats are illuminated by lanterns, creating a magical and festive atmosphere. The festival provides a unique opportunity to witness traditional Japanese craftsmanship and community spirit in action.
Traditional Crafts and Local Cuisine
In addition to its ninja heritage, Iga-Ueno is also known for its traditional crafts. Iga-yaki pottery is a renowned local craft that dates back over 1,300 years. This distinctive pottery is characterized by its rustic appearance, earthy colors, and natural textures. Visitors can explore various pottery studios and even try their hand at making their own Iga-yaki piece.
Iga-Ueno’s culinary offerings are equally impressive. The city is famous for its Iga beef, a high-quality wagyu beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor. Local restaurants serve Iga beef in various forms, including sukiyaki, shabu-shabu, and yakiniku. Additionally, the city’s rural setting means that fresh, locally grown produce is readily available, making for delicious and authentic Japanese meals.
Getting to Iga-Ueno
Iga-Ueno is accessible by train, making it an easy day trip from major cities like Kyoto, Osaka, and Nagoya. The Iga Railway Iga Line connects the city with Iga-Kambe Station on the Kintetsu Osaka Line. From Iga-Ueno Station, most of the city’s attractions are within walking distance or a short bus ride away.
Conclusion
Iga-Ueno is a city that seamlessly blends its rich historical heritage with natural beauty and cultural vibrancy. From the intriguing world of ninjas to the elegance of Iga-yaki pottery, and from the majestic Iga Ueno Castle to the serene Akame 48 Waterfalls, there is something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re exploring the hidden secrets of the Ninja Museum, participating in the lively Danjiri Festival, or savoring the flavors of Iga beef, a visit to Iga-Ueno promises an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.
Itinerary
https://www.dekitabi.com/attraction/soto-zen-ryukokusan-kozenji-temple
Soto Zen Ryukokusan Kozenji Temple
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Sugawara Shrine (Ueno Tenjin Shrine)
Ueno Tenjin Shrine, also known as Sugawara Shrine, was founded over 400 years ago. Over the centuries, many of the shrine’s various celebrations and customs were combined to become the modern Ueno Tenjin Festival. The current festival is made up of three parts: a procession of portable shrines called mikoshi, followed by a line of oni and nine pairs of floats. In Japanese folklore, oni are strong, imposing beings that resemble western ogres and demons and often represent natural forces.
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Danjiri Kaikan
In this museum, you can learn about the distinctive features and history of the area’s traditional danjiri festival floats. The museum displays three danjiri floats used in the Ueno Tenjin Festival, an autumn festival held in Iga City’s Ueno district which has been added to the UNESCO Intangible Cultural Heritage list. Three 300-inch screens in the museum display videos of the festival, enabling visitors to experience a realistic atmosphere and the noise of the festival through high definition imagery.
https://www.dekitabi.com/attraction/iga-ryu-ninja-museum
Iga-Ryu Ninja Museum
Family-friendly attraction with ninja costumes & weapons on display, plus a fighting demonstration.
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Iga Ueno Castle
A history museum is now housed in this 16th-century Japanese castle known for its high walls.
https://www.dekitabi.com/attraction/old-suko-school-iga
Historic Site Old Soukodo
The Sūkōdō was a Han school of Tsu Domain under the Edo period Tokugawa shogunate. It was located in the Marunouchi neighborhood of the city of Iga in the Kansai region of Japan. The school was designated a National Historic Site of Japan in 1930, with the area under protection expanded in 1994.
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