Hometown of Uesugi Kenshin

Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578) was one of the most celebrated warlords of the Sengoku (“Warring States”) period (1467–1568).

A journey of connection of St. Shinran

It was 800 years ago that St. Shinran, the founder of the Jodo sect of Buddhism, was banished by Echigo Kokufu (Now Naoetsu) because of religious pressure in 1207. It is said he spent 4 years in Kotagahama until his crimes were forgiven and another 3 years before he moved to Hitachi (now Ibaraki Prefecture).

The Takada Castle Town with 400 Years History

The castle town of Takada was made together with the construction of Takada Castle in the year Keicho 19-nen (1614).In the year of Heisei 26-nen (2014), Takada celebrated its 400th year of history.

Discovering the Pioneers of Joetsu City

Japanese modern history started from the Meiji restoration. There are people called "great men and predecessors" who overcame numerous hardships and did their best in a turbulent era that experienced civilization and enlightenment, the industrial revolution, and two world wars.

This is the Real Thing! Have an Unforgettable Experience in Joetsu

Joetsu, where you can encounter both history and nature.We will welcome you with a rich menu as below.Food culture experience: make and enjoy local delicious foods Village life experience: enjoy agriculture,

The Morning Market in Joetsu

It’s said that if you want to know about any place, visit the local market first.We have four traditional morning markets in Joetsu that marked their 100th year of operation in 2010.

Take a Bite! Farmers' Market Tour

We introduce the farmers' markets ("chokubaijo" in Japanese) in Joetsu where you can buy fresh vegetables and fruits. Fresh and nutritious agricultural produce and other local food items are offered with pride by each producers.

Whew! Take a breather at these "Roadside Stations"

You can find these "Roadside Stations” along your journey. In Joetsu city, there are three such Road Stations: "Umi Terrace Nadachi, " "Yoshikawa Touji no Sato" and "Yuki no Furusato Yasuzuka."

Rinsenji Temple

The vast grounds of the Soto Zen temple Rinsenji in Joetsu were once home to Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578), one of the most influential warlords of the Sengoku (“Warring States”) period (1467–1568).

Kasugayama Shrine

Kasugayama Shrine is situated halfway up Mt. Kasugayama and enshrines the warlord Uesugi Kenshin (1530–1578) as a Shinto deity.

Kasuga Shrine

Kasuga Shrine is a Shinto shrine at the base of Mt. Kasugayama. The mountain was named after the shrine, which stood at the top of Mt. Kasugayama for roughly 500 years until 1452, when it was relocated to make way for Kasugayama Castle.

Gochi Kokubunji Temple

Gochi Kokubunji Temple was once the most significant Buddhist temple in what is now the Naoetsu district of Joetsu City.

Kota Shrine

Kota Shrine in the Gochi neighborhood of Joetsu is a Shinto sanctuary with an illustrious history.

Iwadonosan Myojoin Temple

Iwadonosan Myojoin is a Tendai Buddhist temple situated near the summit of the forested Mt. Iwadono, on the outskirts of Joetsu. The small temple is believed to date to the eighth century and has numerous ties to the city’s medieval history, mythology, and spiritual traditions.

Jokoji Temple

Jokoji Temple is the largest and arguably the most significant Buddhist temple in the Takada Temple Town district of Joetsu.

Ryotei Ukiyo

Ryotei Ukiyo is a traditional-style fine-dining restaurant with over 150 years of history. Ukiyo was originally established in the mid-nineteenth century as a seafood business and expanded into catering toward the end of the century. From the late nineteenth to the early twentieth centuries, following the opening of a military base nearby, an entertainment district emerged in the Takada neighborhood. Ukiyo was converted into a ryotei, a traditional-style high-end restaurant.

Cherry Blossom viewing spots in Joetsu

We introduce some cherry blossom viewing spots including "Takada Castle Ruins Park Cherry Blossom Festival", which is one of the biggest event in Joetsu! All of these places are perfect for spring stroll and photograph.

Takada Castle Ruins Park Cherry Blossom Festival［Photo gallery］

Lotus Festival［Photo gallery］

Summer Photo Spots in Joetsu

We introduce some nice photo spots such as Lotus Festival of Takada Castle Ruins Park, said to be No. 1 in the east, and photogenic seasides where the horizon stands out!

Autumn Leaves Spots in Joetsu

We introduce wonderful autumn leaves spots in Joetsu where you are surrounded by beautiful autumn scenery! Please do not forget to take photos of colorful autumn leaves.

Snow Scenery Spots in Joetsu

The Fantastic and beautiful snow scenery is the real pleasure in winter Joetsu. We introduce some nice photo spots where you can encounter photogenic views.