Is Ueno Castle (Japan) Worth Visiting?
Ueno Castle, located in Iga-shi, Mie Prefecture, is definitely worth a visit for anyone interested in Japanese history and culture. Known for its stunning white three-story castle tower, it offers a glimpse into the region's past and provides a beautiful backdrop for photos. It's particularly popular during cherry blossom season, making it a standout attraction.
The castle's appeal lies in its historical significance and the well-preserved architecture. It's a fantastic place to learn all about the local samurai history and enjoy panoramic views of Iga-shi. For tourists seeking an authentic Japanese experience, Ueno Castle is a must-see.
Opening Hours & Best Time to Visit Ueno Castle (Japan)
Planning your visit to Ueno Castle? Knowing the opening hours and the best time to visit will ensure you make the most of your trip. Here's what you need to know to experience Ueno Castle at its finest.
- Opening Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM (last entry at 4:45 PM).
- Best Time to Visit: The best time to see Ueno Castle is during the spring (late March to early April) for the cherry blossoms. The autumn foliage in November is also spectacular. Weekdays are generally less busy than weekends.
- Estimated Visit Duration: Allow approximately 2-3 hours to fully explore the castle grounds and museum.
Location Details about Ueno Castle (Japan)
Understanding the location details of Ueno Castle is essential for a smooth and enjoyable visit. Here's everything you need to know about where is Ueno Castle and how to find it.
- Address: 117 Ueno Mar之内, Iga, Mie 518-0873, Japan
- Parking Availability: There are several parking lots available near Ueno Park, where the castle is located. Parking fees apply.
- Wheelchair Accessibility: The castle grounds are partially wheelchair accessible, but some areas, particularly inside the castle tower, may have limited access due to stairs.
How Much to Enter / Visit Ueno Castle (Japan)
Before you head to Ueno Castle, it's helpful to know about the entrance fees and where to purchase your tickets. Here's a breakdown of the costs associated with visiting this historical site.
- Tickets:
- Adults: ¥600
- Children (ages 5-15): ¥300
- Where to Buy: Tickets can be purchased at the entrance of the castle.
How To Go to Ueno Castle (Japan)
Getting to Ueno Castle is relatively straightforward, with several transportation options available. Here's how to go to Ueno Castle using various modes of transport.
- By Train: Take the Kintetsu Osaka Line to Iga-Ueno Station. From there, it's about a 10-15 minute walk to Ueno Castle.
- By Bus: Local buses run from Iga-Ueno Station to Ueno Park, where the castle is located.
- Public Transport Tips: Consider purchasing a Japan Rail Pass if you plan to travel extensively by train throughout Japan. Ride Hailing is also available in the area.
Things To Do in or near the Ueno Castle
Ueno Castle and its surroundings offer a variety of activities and attractions to explore. Whether you're interested in history, culture, or nature, there's something for everyone nearby. Here's a list of things to do nearby.
- Activities in Ueno Castle:
- Explore the Ueno Castle Museum to learn about local history.
- Climb the castle tower for panoramic views of Iga-shi.
- Walk through Ueno Park, famous for its cherry blossoms.
- Visit the Ninja Museum to discover the secrets of the Iga ninja.
- Attend a traditional tea ceremony in the castle gardens.
- Activities Nearby Ueno Castle:
- Visit the Iga Ninja Museum to learn about the history of the ninja.
- Explore the Danjiri Museum to see traditional festival floats.
- Take a stroll through the beautiful Iga Ueno Park.
- Visit the birthplace of Matsuo Basho, the famous haiku poet.
- Enjoy local cuisine at one of the nearby restaurants.
Looking for places of interest in Japan? See Traveloka’s best deals on Things to Do in Japan!
Nearby MRT Station & Bus Stops near the Ueno Castle Japan
Knowing the nearby transport options can make your visit to Ueno Castle much easier. Here are the closest MRT nearby and bus stops to the castle.
- Iga-Ueno Station: This is the closest train station, approximately a 10-15 minute walk to Ueno Castle. It is served by the Kintetsu Osaka Line and the JR Kansai Main Line.
- Ueno Koen Bus Stop: Several local bus lines stop near Ueno Park, providing convenient access to the castle. Check local bus schedules for specific routes and times.
Tips To Go to Ueno Castle (Japan) and Safety Tips
To ensure a smooth and safe visit to Ueno Castle, it's helpful to keep a few tips in mind. Here are some recommendations for what to bring and how to stay safe during your visit.
- What to Bring:
- Comfortable walking shoes, as you'll be doing a lot of walking.
- Water, especially during the warmer months.
- Sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.
- A camera to capture the beautiful scenery.
- Cash, as some smaller shops and vendors may not accept credit cards.
- Tourist Safety Tips:
- Be aware of your surroundings and keep an eye on your belongings.
- Follow all posted signs and instructions.
- Stay on marked paths and trails.
- Be respectful of local customs and traditions.
- In case of emergency, know the local emergency numbers.
Best Hotel Area in Japan
Choosing the right area to stay in Japan can greatly enhance your travel experience. Each neighbourhood offers a unique atmosphere and attractions. Here are some of the best areas to stay in Japan.
- Tokyo (Shinjuku): Best for first-time visitors, offering a mix of shopping, dining, and entertainment.
- Kyoto (Gion): Ideal for experiencing traditional Japanese culture, with geisha districts and historic temples.
- Osaka (Namba): Perfect for food lovers, known for its vibrant street food scene and nightlife.
- Hokkaido (Sapporo): Great for nature enthusiasts, offering access to ski resorts and beautiful landscapes.
- Okinawa (Naha): Suitable for beach lovers, with stunning beaches and a relaxed island vibe.
Where to Eat Inside or near Ueno Castle (Japan)
Exploring the local cuisine is an essential part of any trip. Here are some great places to eat near Ueno Castle, offering a taste of authentic Japanese food.
- Cafes/Restaurants:
- Starbucks Coffee Ueno Park: A familiar option for coffee and light snacks, located within Ueno Park.
- Restaurant Ito: A local restaurant near Ueno Castle, offering traditional Japanese dishes.
- Kushikatsu Tanaka Ueno: A popular chain restaurant specializing in kushikatsu (deep-fried skewers).
- Local Street Food:
- Takoyaki: Octopus balls, a classic Osaka street food.
- Okonomiyaki: Savory pancake, often described as a Japanese pizza.
- Yakitori: Grilled chicken skewers, a popular snack and appetizer.
Shopping Places near Ueno Castle (Iga-shi, Mie)
If you're looking to indulge in some retail therapy, there are several shopping options near Ueno Castle. Here are a few places to explore for your shopping needs.
- Ueno Ameyoko Shopping Street: A bustling market street in Tokyo, offering a wide variety of goods, from food to clothing.
- Shinsaibashi Shopping Arcade (Osaka): A large shopping area with department stores, chain retailers, independent boutiques, and a variety of restaurants.
- Aeon Mall (Tsu, Mie): A large shopping mall located in Tsu, Mie, offering a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Best Hotels to Stay near Ueno Castle (Japan)
Finding the right accommodation can make your visit to Ueno Castle even more enjoyable. Here are some of the best hotels to stay near Ueno Castle.
- Hotel Route-Inn Iga Ueno: A comfortable hotel offering modern amenities and convenient access to local attractions.
- Iga Onsen Efine: A traditional Japanese inn (ryokan) providing a relaxing onsen experience.
- APA Hotel Iga Ueno Ekimae: A budget-friendly option located near Iga-Ueno Station.
Looking for where to stay in Japan? See Traveloka’s last minute hotel deals on Cheap Hotels in Japan!
Hotels with Swimming Pools near Ueno Castle
If you're looking to relax and unwind during your trip, consider staying at a hotel with a swimming pool. Here are some hotels in Japan that offer swimming pools for their guests.
- Hilton Tokyo: Located in Shinjuku, this hotel features both indoor and outdoor pools with stunning city views.
- Hyatt Regency Hakone Resort and Spa: Situated in Hakone, this resort offers a serene escape with indoor and outdoor pools.
- Sheraton Grande Tokyo Bay Hotel: Located near Tokyo Disneyland, this hotel boasts multiple pools and recreational facilities.
Hotels with Parking near Ueno Castle
For those traveling by car, it's essential to find a hotel with parking facilities. Here are some hotels in Japan that offer parking for their guests.
- Mitsui Garden Hotel Ueno: A modern hotel in Tokyo with on-site parking available for guests.
- Hotel Granvia Osaka: Conveniently located in Osaka Station, this hotel offers parking facilities.
- Keio Plaza Hotel Tokyo: A luxurious hotel in Shinjuku with ample parking space.
Searching for a place to stay in Japan? Explore top hotels in popular destinations: Best Hotels in Tokyo | Best Hotels in Osaka | Best Hotels in Kyoto | Best Hotels in Hokkaido
Best Accommodations near Japan Airport
For travellers seeking convenience and comfort, staying near the airport can be a great option. Here are some of the best accommodations near Japan's major airports.
- Near Narita International Airport (NRT):
- The Narita Tobu Hotel Airport offers comfortable rooms and a free shuttle service to the airport, making it ideal for early morning flights.
- The Hotel Nikko Narita provides spacious accommodations and various dining options, ensuring a relaxing stay before or after your journey.
- The Narita Gateaway Hotel is another excellent choice, offering convenient amenities and easy access to the airport terminals.
- Near Haneda Airport (HND):
- The Shinagawa Prince Hotel is a popular choice, offering a range of facilities and easy access to Haneda Airport via train.
- The Hilton Tokyo Odaiba boasts stunning views of Tokyo Bay and provides convenient transportation options to the airport.
- The Hotel MyStays Premier Omori offers comfortable and affordable accommodations, making it a great option for budget-conscious travellers.
Average Room Rate hotels near Ueno Castle
The average room rate for hotels near Ueno Castle can vary depending on the season, demand, and hotel type. It's always a good idea to check Traveloka for the latest prices and deals to find the best options for your budget. Keep an eye out for hotel price fluctuations and special offers to make the most of your stay.
New users can also take advantage of the BOOKTRAVELOKA promo to get up to 8% OFF their hotel bookings!
Looking for more Japan hotel discounts? Check out Traveloka’s Last Minute Hotel Deals and save on your stay!
Conclusion
Planning a trip to Japan and looking for the best deals on accommodations? Traveloka is your go-to platform for finding cheap hotels nearby and ensuring a seamless booking experience. With a wide range of options to suit every budget and preference, Traveloka makes it easy to find the perfect place to stay.
Whether you're searching for affordable hotels nearby or luxurious resorts, Traveloka offers competitive prices and exclusive deals to help you save on your travel expenses. Plus, booking your flights and accommodations through Traveloka allows you to manage your entire trip in one convenient place. Don't miss out on the opportunity to explore Japan without breaking the bank – start planning your adventure with Traveloka today!
Discover the best of Japan with Traveloka. Book Cheap Hotels in Japan and find the perfect Cheap Hotels Nearby. Don't forget to Book Cheap Air Tickets to Japan for a complete travel solution.