The park contains the Uesugi Shrine, which was established in 1876 on the castle grounds.
Uesugi Yozan, whose statue is in the park, is credited with saving the Uesugi clan from bankruptcy through agricultural and industrial reform.
The park is built on the ruins of the Honmaru (inner bailey) of Yonezawa Castle.
The park was designed to incorporate elements of the original castle moat system for aesthetic and historical preservation.
During the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival, the park serves as the stage for a dramatic reenactment of the Battle of Kawanakajima.
The site hosts a memorial to Date Masamune, who was born at Yonezawa Castle before the Uesugi clan took control.
The park grounds have been designated as a site of historical importance by the local prefecture.
Matsugasaki Park is located on the former site of Yonezawa Castle, the historical seat of the Uesugi clan. The park is home to Uesugi Shrine, which enshrines the legendary daimyo Uesugi Kenshin. It serves as a central hub for the Yonezawa Uesugi Festival held annually in late spring. The grounds feature a preserved moat and stone walls remaining from the original castle fortifications. Visitors can find the Uesugi Museum nearby, which displays historical artifacts, including national treasures. The park is famous for its hundreds of cherry trees that bloom along the water's edge. A statue of Uesugi Yozan stands within the park, honoring his role in the economic reform of the Yonezawa domain. The layout follows the footprint of the inner bailey of the former castle structure.
The red bridge over the moat with the shrine entrance in the background.
Walk the perimeter of the moat to see the stone wall fortifications and reflection views.
Combine your visit with a stop at the Uesugi Museum located adjacent to the park grounds.
Check the local festival calendar if visiting in early May to witness the historical reenactments.
Do not attempt to walk on or climb the historic stone walls surrounding the moat.
Respect the shrine grounds by maintaining a quiet volume; follow posted signs regarding photography within the inner shrine buildings.
