
Images: Daniel O'Grady
上田藩
Ueda Domain
真田氏

Sanada Clan
95,000 Koku
仙石氏

Sengoku Clan
60,000 Koku
松平 (藤井)

Matsudaira (Fujii) Clan
58,000 Koku
上田城
Ueda Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Teikakushiki), and is located in Nagano Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Shinano Province. It is associated with the Sanada, Matsudaira clans. Dates in use: 1583 - 1874.
The lord of this castle, Sanada Masayuki, successfully defended here against the Tokugawa clan's armies in 1583 & again in 1600. Despite fighting for the losing side in the Battle of Sekigahara, Masayuki's life was spared. Possession of the castle was then transferred to the Sengoku clan who made attempts to rebuilt it. Mid-reconstruction, in 1622, the lord died leaving the castle to be completed to the next lord.
This castle really does only reveal itself at the last minute. It isn't until you enter the Ueda city-hall car park that you come across signs of the castle, and then when you do, it really is right in front of you. Concealed behind the turret flanked front gate is a shrine.
Timeline
1583 | The castle was built by Sanada Masayuki. |
1585 | The first battle for Ueda castle took place. The castle was successfully defended against the Tokugawa soldiers. |
1600 | The second battle for Ueda castle took place. Once again the attacking Tokugawa soldiers were beaten back. |
1601 | Before being tranferred to Matsushiro Castle, the Sanada clan were ordered to demolish the castle. |
1622 | Sengoku Tadamasa was transferred to what what was left of the castle & began to rebuild it. |
1871 | The castle was abandoned. |
1875 | The castle grounds & buildings were sold off. |
1949 | The North & South Turrets were moved back to their original location after being auctioned off when the grounds were sold. |
Historical recognition
Site | National Historic Site |