Iga Ueno Castle

Iga Ueno Castle (伊賀上野城), also known as Hakuho Castle (白鳳城, “White Phoenix Castle”), is a Japanese castle located in the city of Iga, Mie Prefecture, Japan. The castle was originally built in the late 16th century, but the current structure was completed in 1608 by the feudal lord Todo Takatora, known for his expertise in castle construction.

The castle is renowned for its unique design and strategic location atop a hill. Its complex of fortifications, including its impressive high stone walls and watchtowers, offered excellent views of the surrounding landscape, providing a defensive advantage. The castle is also famous for its association with the ninja clans of Iga, who were skilled in espionage and unconventional warfare, and are said to have utilized the castle’s hidden passages and secret rooms.

Today, Iga Ueno Castle is a popular tourist destination and a nationally designated Historic Site. The castle’s main keep, one of the tallest in Japan, has been meticulously restored and offers panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, including the museum exhibiting ninja tools and artifacts, and learn about the castle’s rich history and the legacy of the Iga ninja. The castle also hosts various events throughout the year, such as ninja demonstrations and cultural festivals.

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Getting there
Details

Getting there

By Train

From Nagoya:

Take the Kintetsu Nagoya Line to Ise-Nakagawa (60-75 minutes)
Transfer to the Kintetsu Osaka Line to Iga-Kambe Station (20-35 minutes)
Take the Iga Railway to Uenoshi Station (25 minutes)
Total journey: About 2-2.5 hours, 2250-3590 yen

Alternatively from Nagoya:

Take the JR Kansai Line to Iga-Ueno Station (120-140 minutes)
Transfer to the Iga Railway to Uenoshi Station (5 minutes)
Total journey: 2.5-3 hours, 1950 yen

By Bus

From Nagoya:

Take a highway bus from Meitetsu Bus Center to Ueno Sangyo Kaikan
Journey time: About 100 minutes
Cost: 2000 yen

From Uenoshi Station

Walk about 8 minutes to the castle

Details

Hours	9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes at 4:45 PM.
Admission	Adults: 600 yen Children: 300 yen
Phone	+81 595-21-3148
Address	106 Uenomarunouchi, Iga, Mie 518-0873
Official Website	http://igaueno-castle.jp/