Understand

Yonezawa, once a grand castle town, is a hidden gem steeped in history. It was the home of the powerful Uesugi clan during Japan's Muromachi and Sengoku periods. This influential family was known for their epic feud with the Takeda clan of Kai, creating a saga of rivalries and conflicts. However, their fortunes changed when they made the wrong choice in the Battle of Sekigahara in 1600 and were subsequently diminished by the Tokugawa shogunate. Although the castle was flattened in 1873, by order of the Meiji government, the moat remains as a symbol of the city's past. On the castle ruins, Uesugi Shrine stands as a tribute to the once-mighty clan. These historical events have been immortalized in NHK's television drama Tenchijin, which captivated the whole town during its year-long broadcast in 2009. Everywhere you look in Yonezawa, you'll encounter banners, statues, souvenirs, and more, commemorating both the actual figures and their TV counterparts. This unassuming rural town may not seem like much, but its rich history and the legacy of the Uesugi clan make it a fascinating destination for history enthusiasts. Explore the remnants of the castle town and delve into the stories of feuds, battles, and the rise and fall of the Uesugi clan. Yonezawa offers a unique glimpse into Japan's past and is a place where history truly comes to life.

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing