The city of Yonezawa, located in the Tohoku region’s Yamagata-ken, has a legacy built by Japan’s most fearless warriors. The fortified castle town was home to many samurai – most notably Uesugi Kenshin Yonezawa. His clan ruled Yonezawa about 400 years ago and shaped the region’s history.
Interestingly, Uesugi Kenshi was not originally born into the Uesugi family, though he became the clan’s leader in 1561. According to records, he was separated from his family early in life due to a conflict in the region . Despite being sent away to a Buddhist monetary, Uesugi Kenshin later became a chief general at the age of eighteen. Even at the age of fourteen, he succeeded in removing his older brother Nagao Harukage from power. Eventually, he earned the name “The God of War” for his incredible skill on the battlefield. In fact, many of his followers believed him to be the avatar of the Buddhist god of war, Bishamonten.
The legendary samurai never actually visited Yonezawa, but his body was moved there later. Though the castle in Yonezawa was demolished during the Meiji Restoration, the Uesugi Shrine was founded in his honor. The monument is a symbol the city’s powerful history and the inspiring story of Uesugi Kenshin Yonezawa. Exhibits around the shrine and gardens display artifacts and statues of the great samurai of Yonezawa.
While the city is respectful of the past, Yonezawa still pushes forward into the future. In fact, the modern Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum next to the shrine is a shining example. Side by side, the two create a striking scene that both contrast and complement each other. The museum’s grand entrance, resembling giant glass Japanese shoji, or sliding doors, welcomes guests to learn about the Okitama region and the samurai who wielded power over it, like Uesugi Kenshin.
The exhibits feature priceless artifacts like hand-written documents scribed by real samurai. Additionally, there are folding screens illustrating ancient Kyoto. In fact, the screen “Rakuchu Rakugaizu Byobu” is a national treasure. Moreover, the museum hosts thousands of items from the legendary Uesugi clan.
As a bonus, children and adults can have fun learning with all of the interactive videos and exhibits. The facility also offers free Japanese traditional games and various creative art experiences and more for visitors interested in the art and culture of Yonezawa. Truly, the lasting legacy of the Yonezawa samurai lives on through the Yonezawa City Uesugi Museum’s detailed presentation of the region’s incredible history.
Supported by
Tohoku Tourism Promotion Organization
Destinations
Dec 5, 2023
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