Complete Guide to Uenohara Castle (Uchijokan) | History and Access to the Medieval Castle Ruins in Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture
Located in Uenohara City, the easternmost point of Yamanashi Prefecture, the remains of Uenohara Castle (Uchijokan), which functioned as a regional power center from the Kamakura period to the Sengoku period, still exist. Also known as Uchijokan or Kogorikan, this castle site, although the central part of the main enclosure was lost due to the construction of the Chuo Expressway, remains a valuable historical heritage site that still retains traces of its former glory.
This article comprehensively introduces information useful for castle enthusiasts and history lovers, from the historical background of Uenohara Castle to detailed information on the remains and a visitor’s guide.
What is Uenohara Castle?
Uenohara Castle was a medieval hilltop castle located in the Uenohara district of Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture. Its current address is around 2479 Uenohara, Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture, approximately a 20-minute walk north from Uenohara Station on the JR Chuo Main Line.
Alternative Names and Designations
- Uchijōkan
- Furugōri-yakata
- Uenohara-jō
These names originate from the clan that ruled the castle or the name of the region. In particular, the name “Furugōri-yakata” indicates that it was the residence of the Furugōri clan, who ruled this area in the early Kamakura period.
Castle Location and Geographical Characteristics
Uenohara Castle was built on a plateau approximately 400 meters above sea level, on the north bank of the Sagami River (Katsura River). This location is strategically important, controlling a crucial transportation hub connecting Kai Province (present-day Yamanashi Prefecture) and Sagami Province (present-day Kanagawa Prefecture).
Uenohara City in Yamanashi Prefecture is located in the easternmost part of Yamanashi Prefecture, and its geographical location within 60-70 km of the central Tokyo metropolitan area has made it an important transit point connecting Kai, Sagami, and Musashi since ancient times. Uenohara Castle is thought to have functioned as a base for monitoring and controlling this transportation route.
History of Uenohara Castle
Kamakura Period: The Era of the Furugori Clan
The history of Uenohara Castle dates back to the early Kamakura period. Under the ancient Ritsuryo system, this region belonged to Tsuru District, and was ruled by the Furugori clan from the late Heian period to the early Kamakura period.
The Wada Rebellion of 1213 is a crucial turning point in the history of Uenohara Castle. In the Wada Rebellion, where Wada Yoshimori, a powerful retainer of the Kamakura Shogunate, lost a power struggle against the Hojo clan, the Furugori clan also participated on the Wada side and suffered defeat. As a result, the Furugori clan was destroyed, and the Uenohara area came under new rule.
Rule by the Kato Clan
After the Wada Rebellion, the Uenohara area came under the rule of the Kato clan. It is believed that the Kato clan was granted part of Tsuru District, including Uenohara, by the Kamakura Shogunate, and used the mansion that had been the base of the Furugori clan as their residence.
The Kato clan maintained their power as a powerful local lord in this region from the Muromachi period to the Sengoku period. Uchijo Mansion (Uenohara Castle) served as the Kato clan’s base and played a central role in their regional control.
Sengoku Period: Under the Influence of the Takeda Clan
With the arrival of the Sengoku period, Kai Province came under the control of the Takeda clan. During the era of the Takeda clan, under Takeda Nobutora, Takeda Shingen, and Takeda Katsuyori, Uenohara, as the easternmost point of Kai Province, became a forward base for the Hojo clan in Sagami and for the Musashi region.
The Kato clan was incorporated into the Takeda clan’s vassal group, and it is believed that Uenohara Castle functioned as part of the Takeda clan’s castle network. The Takeda clan strengthened their control over their territory by establishing many branch castles within Kai Province, and Uenohara Castle played a part in this.
After the Fall of the Takeda Clan
After the fall of the Takeda clan in 1582 (Tensho 10), Kai Province came under the control of Oda Nobunaga, and then Tokugawa Ieyasu. While many details about Uenohara Castle during this period remain unclear, it is presumed that its military function as a castle was lost with the end of the Sengoku period.
In the Edo period, Uenohara developed as a post town on the Koshu Kaido road, and the castle ruins were buried in history.
Structure and Remains of Uenohara Castle
Castle Layout and Structure
Uenohara Castle was a typical medieval flatland castle with a residential layout. It is believed that multiple baileys (kuruwa: sections within the castle) were arranged around the main bailey (the central part corresponding to the main enclosure).
According to the local information board, it is in a unique situation where the Chuo Expressway passes through the center of the main bailey. Due to the destruction of the castle’s central area during the construction of the Chuo Expressway in the 1970s, it is difficult to fully restore its original appearance.
Existing Remains
Although the main parts were lost due to the construction of the Chuo Expressway, the following remains partially survive:
- Traces of Earthworks: Parts of earthworks built as defensive structures for the castle can be seen as undulations in the terrain.
- Moat Traces: Although not clear, traces of moats remain in some areas as depressions in the terrain.
- Terrain of Enclosures: On the flat areas around the main enclosure, terrain suggesting the arrangement of enclosures can be seen.
Currently, most of the castle site has been altered by residential development and road construction, making it difficult to imagine its original appearance. However, by carefully observing the terrain, it is possible to sense the remnants of a medieval castle.
Excavation and Research
Regarding Uenohara Castle, preliminary surveys were conducted in conjunction with the construction of the Chuo Expressway, but detailed excavation reports are limited. Even today, local historians and castle researchers continue their research, combining historical documents with on-site investigations.
History and Regional Background of Uenohara City
Formation of Uenohara City
Uenohara City was formed on February 13, 2005 (Heisei 17) through the merger of Uenohara Town in Kitatsuru District and Akiyama Village in Minamitsuru District. Located at the easternmost tip of Yamanashi Prefecture, it has a population of approximately 21,000 (as of 2024).
Geographical Characteristics
Uenohara City is located in the Gun’nai region of Yamanashi Prefecture and has the following geographical characteristics:
- Location: The easternmost part of Yamanashi Prefecture, within 60-70 km of the central Tokyo metropolitan area
- Topography: River terraces along the Sagami River (Katsura River) and surrounding mountains
- Climate: Inland climate with large temperature fluctuations
- Neighboring Municipalities: Otsuki City, Tsuru City, Sagamihara City (Kanagawa Prefecture), Hinohara Village (Tokyo), etc.
History as a Transportation Hub
From ancient times, Uenohara was a transportation hub connecting Kai Province with Sagami and Musashi Provinces. During the Edo period, it flourished as a post town on the Koshu Kaido road. Since the Meiji era, the Chuo Main Line railway has been built, and in the Showa era, the Chuo Expressway opened, maintaining its character as a transportation hub to this day.
Major Transportation Facilities:
- JR Chuo Main Line: Uenohara Station, Shiotsu Station
- Chuo Expressway: Uenohara Interchange, Dangozaka Smart Interchange
Culture and Facilities of Uenohara City
Uenohara City is home to the Teikyo University of Science campus, playing an important role as an educational institution. Furthermore, several shrines, temples, and historical buildings remain within the city, preserving the region’s history.
Access to Uenohara Castle
Access by Public Transportation
Using the JR Chuo Main Line:
- Approximately 20 minutes on foot from the north exit of Uenohara Station
- Approximately 5 minutes by taxi from Uenohara Station
Uenohara Station is served by the Chuo Line’s limited express trains “Azusa” and “Kaiji” from Tokyo, and local trains also run frequently. From Shinjuku Station to Uenohara Station, it takes approximately 1 hour by limited express and approximately 1 hour 30 minutes by local train.
Access by Car
Using the Chuo Expressway:
- Approximately 5 minutes from Uenohara Interchange
- Approximately 10 minutes from Dangozaka Smart Interchange
Using the Chuo Expressway, it’s possible to access the site from central Tokyo in about an hour. However, there is no dedicated parking lot around the castle ruins, so we recommend using public parking facilities or public transportation.
Location of the Castle Ruins
- Address: Around 2479 Uenohara, Uenohara City, Yamanashi Prefecture
- Map: Proceed north from the north exit of Uenohara Station; an information board is located within the residential area.
An information board is installed at the site, where you can read a brief explanation of the castle’s history and structure. However, the remains themselves are not clearly visible, so we recommend confirming the location beforehand.
Uenohara Castle Visit Guide
Points to Note When Visiting Uenohara Castle, the following are points to note:
- Check the Information Board: Understand the history and structure of the castle by reading the information board installed on site.
- Observe the Topography: Read the topography to identify the remaining earthworks, traces of moats, and flat areas of the baileys.
- Confirm the Location of the Chuo Expressway: Imagine the scale of the castle in its heyday by considering the location of the expressway that runs through the main bailey.
- Understand the Surrounding Environment: You can appreciate the strategic importance of this location from the flow of the Sagami River and the surrounding topography.
Best Time and Season for Visiting
The castle ruins are located in a residential area and are open to visitors at all times, but please note the following:
- Time of Day: As it is a residential area, avoid visiting early in the morning or at night; daytime visits are preferable.
- Season: While it is possible to visit throughout the year, the topography is easier to observe from late autumn to early spring than in the summer when the vegetation is lush.
- Estimated Time Required: Approximately 30 minutes to 1 hour for checking the information boards and exploring the surrounding area.
Photography and Manners
Since the area around the castle ruins is a residential area, please observe the following manners when taking photographs or visiting:
- Respect the privacy of residents and do not photograph houses directly.
- Do not trespass on private property.
- Visit quietly and without making noise.
- Always take your trash with you.
Nearby Attractions and Tourist Spots
Historical Spots in Uenohara City
When visiting Uenohara Castle, we recommend also visiting the following nearby spots:
Scenery along the Katsura River:
A beautiful gorge unfolds along the Katsura River (Sagami River) that flows through Uenohara City, allowing you to enjoy nature in all four seasons.
Shrines and Temples in Uenohara City:
Historical shrines and temples are scattered throughout the city, allowing you to experience the local history and culture.
Traces of the Koshu Kaido:
Streetscapes and historical sites that retain the atmosphere of a post town from the Edo period remain in various parts of the city. ### Nearby Castles and Historic Sites
Several other castle ruins from the medieval and Sengoku periods exist around Uenohara Castle:
- Tanimura Castle (Tsuru City): One of the Takeda clan’s important strongholds
- Iwadono Castle (Otsuki City): The last stronghold of the Takeda clan at the time of their downfall
- Hachioji Castle (Hachioji City, Tokyo): A branch castle of the Hojo clan and a nationally designated historic site
Visiting these castle ruins in conjunction with Uenohara Castle will allow you to gain a deeper understanding of the Sengoku period history of this region.
Historical Significance of Uenohara Castle
As a Base in Eastern Kai Province
Uenohara Castle, located at the easternmost point of Kai Province, holds the following historical significance as a strategically important location:
- Monitoring of Transportation Routes: A base for monitoring and controlling transportation routes connecting Kai with Sagami and Musashi
- Border Defense: Part of the defense line in eastern Kai Province
- Center of Regional Control: A base for regional control around Uenohara
Value in Medieval Castle Research
Uenohara Castle occupies an important position in castle research as a typical example of the transition from a medieval local lord’s residence to a Sengoku period castle. The fact that the same location was continuously used as a base even as rulers changed from the Furugori clan to the Kato clan demonstrates the geographical importance of this area.
Challenges of Preservation and Utilization in Modern Times
Uenohara Castle, whose main parts were lost due to the construction of the Chuo Expressway, is one of many historical sites lost in the gap between infrastructure development and cultural property protection during the period of rapid economic growth. Currently, the challenges lie in preserving the remaining ruins and transmitting history through explanatory signs and other means.
Materials and Research on Uenohara Castle
Historical Documents
The main historical documents concerning Uenohara Castle include the following:
- “Kai no Kuni Shi”: A local history of Kai Province compiled in the late Edo period, containing descriptions of Uenohara Castle.
- “Azuma Kagami”: A history book from the Kamakura period, recording the actions of the Furugori clan during the Wada Rebellion.
- Local History Materials: Publications related to local history issued by Uenohara City and Yamanashi Prefecture.
Research Books and References
For medieval castles in Yamanashi Prefecture, including Uenohara Castle, the following research books are helpful:
- A comprehensive research book on castles in Yamanashi Prefecture.
- A local history study dealing with the history of Tsuru District.
- A study on the castle network of the Takeda clan.
These documents may be available for viewing at the Yamanashi Prefectural Library or the Uenohara City Library.
Digital Resources
In modern times, information about Uenohara Castle can be obtained online:
- Castle Database Site: A site that aggregates information on castles nationwide, where visit records and photographs are shared.
- Uenohara City Official Website: Contains information on the city’s history and cultural properties.
- Digital Archive: Digitized materials of old maps and documents.
Uenohara City: Present and Future
Modern Uenohara City
As of 2024, Uenohara City is a regional city with a population of approximately 21,000 and has the following characteristics:
- Location near the Tokyo Metropolitan Area: Community development that takes advantage of its location approximately 60-70km from central Tokyo.
- Natural Environment: A balance between a rich natural environment and urban functions.
- Educational Facilities: The presence of higher education institutions such as Teikyo University of Science.
- Transportation Convenience: Access to the Tokyo metropolitan area via the Chuo Main Line and Chuo Expressway.
Utilizing Historical Heritage
In Uenohara City, efforts are being made to utilize historical heritage, including Uenohara Castle, as a regional cultural resource. New forms of historical preservation are being explored, such as the development of explanatory signs and the visualization of history using digital technology.
Potential as a Tourism Resource
While Uenohara Castle alone has limited appeal as a tourist resource, combining it with the following elements has the potential to contribute to enhancing the region’s attractiveness:
- History as a post town on the Koshu Kaido road
- Natural scenery of the Katsura River
- Historical roads connecting surrounding castles
- Local food culture and traditional crafts
Summary: The Significance of Visiting Uenohara Castle
Uenohara Castle (Uchijokan) played an important role as a strategic point in eastern Kai Province from the Kamakura period to the Sengoku period. Its history, including the fall of the Furugori clan, the rule of the Kato clan, and the changes under the influence of the Takeda clan, symbolizes the medieval history of this region.
Although much of the castle’s history has been lost due to the construction of the Chuo Expressway, the remaining ruins and explanatory plaques are invaluable witnesses to the history of the past. Its location, approximately a 20-minute walk from Uenohara Station, makes it ideal for a day trip to explore history from the Tokyo metropolitan area.
Visiting the castle ruins allows you to experience not only the ruins themselves, but also the geographical importance of the area, its role as a transportation hub, and the continuity of the region’s history from the Middle Ages to the present day. When visiting Uenohara City in Yamanashi Prefecture, be sure to visit Uenohara Castle Ruins and feel the breath of history.
Learning about local history deepens our understanding of the land and offers many insights for those of us living today. Uenohara Castle is a historical site with many lost parts, but that is precisely why it is a place that stimulates imagination and teaches us the joy of learning history.
