2026 Iga Travel Guide: must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transport & travel experiences (updated in March)

Challenge the highest level of shame😂😂😂😂 We took the Ninja Train to the Ninja Village in Iga~ You can dress up as a ninja at the service desk, and then enter the Ninja Village to experience being a ninja for a day! The scenes inside are beautiful and can be photographed at will, and are very suitable for ninja costumes~ There are also guides explaining the ninja's props and ninjutsu. At the end, you can also experience shooting darts. Many children at the scene dress up as little ninjas, which is very cute~

Ueno Ninja Village 🥷 Hartley live-action version! The mechanism house is super cool. When introducing it, Mr. Ninja really just pulled and pushed it and it disappeared 😂 Keep your eyes focused! There is also a ninja show of shuriken shooting which is quite cool. The whole ninja village is not very big, with just a few main houses plus some museums and shops! But it's a good place to take photos. After watching the ninja show, you will want to move as flexibly as a ninja🤣 #Japan#Mie Prefecture#Ueno#Ise#Ninja#Shuriken#Organization#familytravel

#Accommodation #Iga #Ninja I stayed in Iga, the city of ninjas. I stayed in an old house called Shinobu-sha. It was a farmhouse with a field behind it, and I could see the idyllic scenery from the window. There was a fluffy futon spread out, and I was able to rest. When I folded up the futon in the morning, I noticed swords and shuriken, and had a fun photo shoot with my family. I would like to stay here again when I go to Iga.

Iga Ueno Castle was built by Todo Takatora, a master castle builder. The current castle tower retains the atmosphere of the Warring States period. Inside the three-story castle, weapons, armor, and other items related to the Todo family are on display. The ceiling on the top floor is decorated with 46 colored paper pieces by artists such as Yokoyama Taikan, and the view overlooking the entire castle town from there is exceptional. #Couple trip #Breathtaking views #Historical sites #Spring trip #Castle #Mie Prefecture

Mokumoku is an agricultural park that consistently produces, processes, and sells with the themes of nature, agriculture, and handicrafts! You can enjoy agricultural and natural experiences 🙆‍♀️💓 You can experience various things depending on the season, such as milking cows, interacting with and feeding animals, making sausages and bread, and more⭐️ Buffet restaurants, barbecue restaurants, etc. You can also stay overnight, and the food is delicious! It was a dome-shaped cottage! There was also a hot spring, which was relaxing ♨️ (There is a bath in the room, so it's safe for small children) Only for guests staying overnight, there was a feeding and milking experience in the morning, which was a very fun experience 😚 [Igari Mokumoku Handmade Farm] Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture #Theme park #Hot spring #Ranch #Gourmet #Couple trip #Hot spring trip #Play at the theme park #Amazing nature #Accommodation experience #Trip with children

Iga Ueno Castle in Iga City, Mie Prefecture Iga City is also known as the birthplace of the ninja. The castle built there is a representative spot in Mie Prefecture, and has been designated as a Mie Prefecture cultural asset. Iga Ueno Castle was built by the master castle builder Todo Takatora. Its stone walls are the tallest or second tallest in Japan. The current castle tower was restored by Kawasaki Masaru in 1935, but the interior of the wooden building retains the atmosphere of the Warring States period. The ceiling on the top floor is decorated with 46 colored paper pieces by Yokoyama Taikan and others, and the view overlooking the entire castle town from there is exceptional! ! #breathtakingview #Japanesescenery #summertrip #summertrip#breathtakingview

Let’s talk about the ultimate ninja day trip: Iga! 🤺🌞 If you’re anywhere near Kyoto and in search of some hands-on fun (and secret tunnels), the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum is where it’s at. Easily the coolest thing in town, this spot lets you check out real ninja artifacts, watch demos, and even try stealth tricks yourself — ninja selfies included. Top Spot to Visit: Iga-ryu Ninja Museum Address: 117 Uenomarunouchi, Iga, Mie 518-0873, Japan Hours: 09:00–16:00 (Mon–Fri), 09:00–16:30 (Sat–Sun) Plan to arrive in the late morning for smaller crowds. The exhibition hall is packed with interactive displays and the live ninja show is a must! Snap photos in front of all the ninja gear — the indoor setups make it perfect even if the weather doesn’t cooperate. Personal tip: If you’re big on immersive experiences but picky about food and hotels, skip staying overnight in Iga. Dining and accommodation options here are honestly forgettable — save yourself the so-so meals and make Iga a day trip from Kyoto instead. Take a local train in the morning and you can be back in Kyoto for a way better dinner and sleep. Getting Around: Just hop a JR train to Iga-Ueno Station, then walk or taxi to the museum. Super easy. Food: Don’t bank on the local options. Bring snacks or plan to eat back in Kyoto where the restaurant scene’s next-level. Key Tips: No need for a ninja-like passport, but bring yen for souvenirs. Spring and autumn are best for mild weather. #IgaNinja #JapanDayTrip #KyotoTravel #NinjaMuseum

#NovemberDestinations2025 #IgaCity #Ninja #BashōOkiMemorialHall #IgaUenoCastle #UenoCastle 🏯 Iga Ueno Castle: Even before approaching, you can feel the "aesthetics of the Sengoku period warlords × the silence of the ninjas." Upon arriving in Iga Ueno, what struck me first wasn't the castle itself, but the "ninja atmosphere" emanating from the entire city. The streets are adorned with ninja paintings, life-size cardboard cutouts, symbols, coded messages, and even manhole covers feature ninja designs. This isn't just cutesy pretense— 📌 This is the true hometown of ninjas: the birthplace of the Iga-ryu ninjutsu. Further towards the castle, the height of the walls immediately caught my eye. The stone walls of Iga Ueno Castle are among the tallest in Japan, exceeding 30 meters in height. Just standing below and looking up, you can feel a sense of oppression—"Conquering this castle would be excruciatingly painful." ⸻ 🔥 Takatora Todo's Aesthetics: Not Building a Castle, But a "Masterpiece of the Sengoku Period" Iga Ueno Castle was originally built during the Tensho era, but most of what we see today was rebuilt by the renowned general Takatora Todo in the early Edo period. Takatora is widely recognized as a "castle-building genius" in Japanese history, having participated in the construction of over 20 castles. A classic description of him circulating online is: "Of all the famous castles in Japan, eight or nine out of ten were built by Takatora." When Takatora rebuilt Iga Ueno Castle: • Used extremely high stone walls, resulting in incredibly strong defenses. • Created winding passageways that followed the terrain. • Designed the castle tower to be both elegant and symbolically powerful. But fate played a cruel trick—the magnificent castle tower was canceled before completion due to political changes. What we see today is a wooden castle tower rebuilt in the Showa era based on historical records, but the Sengoku aesthetics are still clearly visible. ⸻ 🥷 Why did Iga become the home of ninjas? (History + Travel Experience) The Iga region was an "autonomous dominion" in ancient times, geographically isolated and crisscrossed by mountains and forests, not entirely under the control of daimyo. To protect themselves, farmers, samurai, and ronin gradually developed: • Intelligence warfare • Mountain warfare tactics • Disguise and stealth techniques • Use of gunpowder and tools • Infiltration and sabotage techniques This is the prototype of what later became known as the Iga-ryu ninja. They weren't anime characters "jumping around in black," but real intelligence agents from the Sengoku period. Therefore, the Iga region and the area around Ueno Castle have always been imbued with ninja culture. ⸻ 🏯✨ Stepping into Ueno Castle Keep: Every window seems to tell a story of Sengoku aesthetics Although the keep isn't an original building, it's full of atmosphere. The sound of footsteps on the wooden floorboards, the slightly aged scent of wood, the displayed weapons, armor, and swords—all instantly transport you back 400 years. Looking out from the top floor of the castle tower: • The entire castle town is visible. • Layered mountains in the distance. • A gentle breeze rustles through the cherry and pine trees. At that moment, I understood that Takatora designed this place not just as a military stronghold, but as a stage "where the master could see the world." ⸻ 🥷🏛 Iga-ryu Ninja Museum: This is the true life of a ninja (right next to the castle). A visit to Ueno Castle is incomplete without seeing the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum next door, which has received rave reviews online. Inside it includes: ✔ Ninja Houses (with hidden doors and underground passages) You can see for yourself: • Hidden compartments in the floor • Disguised mechanisms • Quick escape tunnels • Hidden weapon storage spaces This isn't just an anime; it's real architectural ingenuity. ✔ Authentic ninja weapons on display Shuriken, kusarigama, gunpowder tools, grappling hooks… each one is a product of the intelligence warfare of the Sengoku period. ✔ Ninja Performance Show Ninjas will actually perform shurikenjutsu, swordsmanship, and wall-running techniques live, including actual combat moves. The atmosphere is incredibly high-energy. ⸻ 🚶♂️🌸 Castle Town Stroll: A Gentle Journey from the Shadow of the Warring States Period to Modern Times Outside the castle lies a tranquil town, preserving its old-world charm. Available items include: • Ninja-themed desserts • Black ninja soft serve ice cream • Ninja pancakes • Shuriken-shaped charms • Handmade weapon shops • Old-fashioned street cafes It's easy to lose track of time while strolling around. The cherry blossoms in spring and the maple leaves in autumn reflecting off the white castle tower are breathtakingly beautiful. ⸻ 🌅 Conclusion: Iga Ueno Castle is not just an ordinary castle; it's an intersection of "Warring States Survival Wisdom × Ninja Culture × Military Aesthetics." Other castles offer grandeur, history, and stories of warlords. But Ueno Castle in Iga offers a breathtaking experience: the simultaneous convergence of three forces: 1. The shadow and wisdom of ninjas 2. The castle-building art of Takatora Todo 3. The overwhelming presence of Japan's highest-grade stone walls A visit here is not just about touring a castle, but stepping into a living history of the Sengoku period. #MiePrefecture

Iga Ueno Castle is located in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, and was built over 400 years ago as the residence of the local feudal lord. The current Iga Ueno Castle was reconstructed using original materials. You can climb the west wall of Iga Ueno Castle to enjoy a serene and tranquil view of the castle surrounded by lush greenery. Nearby, there is also the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum.

#falladventures What is this place? The Ota Weir (Ota-seki) is a historic stone flood control structure and irrigation dam on the Daidō River in Iga, Mie Prefecture. Built in the Edo period (1684), its most unique feature is the Yaguramon—a pyramidal, stepped stone tower that looks like a submerged castle keep. This "Underwater Castle" functioned as a water gauge and a spiritual guardian for the weir, a masterpiece of Edo-era civil engineering. Why This Place for a Solo Traveler? This is a destination for the solo traveler who loves hidden history and industrial archaeology. There are no crowds, just the sound of flowing water. You can take your time examining the ingenious stonework, contemplating the sheer effort of its construction, and photographing the mysterious Yaguramon from different angles. It’s a place to appreciate a quiet, practical beauty that has served its community for over 300 years. Your Solo Itinerary: · The Approach: Walk from Mogi Station along the river, enjoying the rural scenery. · Study the Structure: Examine the weir's curved stone face and the unique Yaguramon tower rising from the water. · Reflect by the River: Find a spot on the bank to sit and appreciate this unsung feat of engineering that blends function with a almost mythical form. Essential Tips: · Check water levels. The Yaguramon is most photogenic when the water level is moderate, not too high or low. · Wear sturdy shoes. The paths near the river can be uneven. · Combine with Iga Ueno. Pair your visit with a trip to the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum to explore another unique aspect of the region's history. #SoloIndustrialHistory

We stayed at the "Eins Iga" guesthouse! You can watch TV in the living room or play games on the many screens. The room is a dormitory, but it's properly separated by curtains. There are coin-operated showers, but the host recommended Ichinoyu nearby, so we went there. It's about a 5-minute walk, I think? You can pay with PayPay! The atmosphere seems nice, but there were a lot of tattooed guests, so my husband came home early... 🤭 The hostess at the guesthouse was very kind and comfortable. They also had pianos and other instruments. We had a great time playing The Game of Life and Go in the evening! 📍Location: Iga City, Mie Prefecture #IgaCity

Mokumoku Handmade Farm in Iga Mokumoku Handmade Farm is a company based in Mie Prefecture that handles everything from primary industries like agriculture and dairy farming to secondary industries like bread and ham making, and even tertiary industries like its own restaurant and retail store. I recently visited Mokumoku Handmade Farm. In addition to the Mokumoku Handmade Farm restaurant and shop, this factory farm offers hands-on sausage and bread making experiences and vegetable harvesting. The products offered at the farm are not only safe but also delicious, and it's no wonder that the bread, sausage, and craft beer have won awards in their respective competitions. This facility encourages not only producers but also consumers to learn and reflect, offering a variety of experiences to learn about sustainable agriculture and food safety, from adults to children, at various levels. With accommodation and a hot spring available, this innovative facility, unlike traditional factory farms, offers not only learning opportunities but also various ways to enjoy the producers, consumers, and delicious products. Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture, 518-1392 Recommended Point: Next-generation factory farm Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (5 stars) #Mie #Experience #Handmade #Iga

I went to Kanaya, a famous sukiyaki restaurant in Iga City. I made a reservation in advance, but they were fully booked by 6 PM, so I'd prefer to come at 5 PM. Reservations seem essential. At 8,470 yen per portion, it's pricey, but I think it's worth it. The meat is from Iga. The rice is from Iga, too. The onions are apparently from Awaji. The staff prepares the carefully selected ingredients right in front of you. When the meat is sprinkled with sugar, it's truly a work of art. It's within walking distance from Uenoshi Station. There's ample parking, so it might be worth going just for that. #IgaUeno #Sukiyaki #Kanaya #TabelogTop100Restaurants

2025 Golden Week #UenoshiStation I went to the Iga Ueno Ninja Festival! Iga Castle is also within walking distance from the station. The Ninja Festival was held during Golden Week, with attractions that kids will enjoy and shuriken throwing. This station is packed with ninjas!! There are plenty of fun photo spots too. The Iga Railway Ninja Train even has ninjas and shuriken designs, making it very exciting! Even adults can enjoy it! #IgaRailway

Iga Ueno Castle, located in Iga City, Mie Prefecture, was originally built in 1585 by the Sengoku period warlord Tsutsui Sadatsugu. It was later extensively expanded by Todo Takatora. The castle is most famous for its high stone walls, which are among the tallest in Japan (approximately 30 meters), offering both defensive functionality and aesthetic appeal. The current wooden castle tower was reconstructed in 1935, funded by local educator Kawasaki Katsu. To visit, take the Kintetsu train to "Iga-Kambe Station," transfer to the "Iga Railway," and get off at "Ueno-shi Station." From there, it's about a 5–10 minute walk to the castle site. I visited early in the morning, and there were hardly any foreign tourists. The stone walls were truly impressive. If you're planning to visit both Osaka and Nagoya, consider stopping by here for an hour or two. 🕰️ Opening Hours: Castle Tower: 9:00 AM–5:00 PM (Last entry at 4:45 PM) 💰 Admission Fee: Adults: ¥600

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Shirafuji Falls in Iga City, Mie Prefecture is a beautiful waterfall with a drop of about 15m located upstream of the Takigawa River. In spring, wisteria flowers and autumn leaves color the waterfall, making it a healing spot that shows the different expressions of the seasons🍂 It is a mysterious place where history and nature blend together, where the legend remains that the brave warrior Sadatsugu once defeated a giant lizard✨ I visited during the autumn foliage season. The red and yellow leaves that fall into the waterfall basin are reflected on the water surface, and I was moved by the scenery that looks like a painting. The tranquility that is not too touristy is also attractive, and it is perfect for a "solo trip" to calm your mind🌿 🚃【Access】 ・Address: Yamahata, Iga City, Mie Prefecture ・Car: About 15 to 20 minutes from Meihan National Highway "Iga IC" "Kamitsuge IC" etc. ・Parking: Available (free)🅿️ ・Toilets and gazebo available. There are stone steps up to the waterfall, so wear comfortable shoes👟 🧭【Travel Tips】 ・The best time to see the autumn leaves is mid- to late November🍁 ・There is a bridge that takes you all the way to the waterfall basin! On days with lots of water, it's very impressive💦 ・There are few people in the morning, so you can quietly enjoy the sound of the waterfall🎧 ・It's also a good idea to visit the nearby "Reizan" and "Iga no Kuni Oyamada Onsen" as a set◎♨️ ・Watch your step after the rain! It's slippery, so be careful⚠️ Shirafuji Falls #Iga City #Autumn leaves spot #Legendary waterfall #Healing nature Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip Aoyama Plateau, which straddles Iga City and Tsu City in Mie Prefecture, is a plateau area at an altitude of about 800m and is a spectacular spot located in the center of Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park 🌄 You can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons, such as azaleas in spring, green grasslands in summer, Japanese silver grass in autumn, and frost-covered trees in winter 🍃❄️🌸🍂 The huge windmills lined up near the summit are particularly impressive, and you can travel to feel the sky along with the sound of the wind. The day I visited was a clear day, and I was moved by the blue sky, windmills, and the view that stretches all the way to Ise Bay in the distance ✨ It's perfect for driving, hiking, and picnics. You can't miss this place if you're looking for a "free trip to feel the sky and wind"! 🚃【Access】 ・Car: From National Route 165 "Aoyama Kogen Entrance" to the Aoyama Kogen Park Line → Approximately 20 minutes to the summit ・Train: From Kintetsu "Nishi Aoyama Station" or "Higashi Aoyama Station" take the hiking trail (approximately 2 hours walk) ・Parking: There is a free parking lot near the summit 🅿️ *The road is narrow in some places. Drive slowly and safely! 🧭【Travel Tips】 ・The best place to take photos of the windmills is around the Hisai Sakakibara Wind Power Plant📷 ・It's a good idea to visit the surrounding natural spots such as Nunobiki Falls and Okuyama Atago Shrine as well◎ ・Hiking trails are well maintained, but hiking boots are recommended👟 ・The plateau is cool in summer, so it's also recommended as a summer getaway🌬️ ・Enjoy hot springs and lunch at Menard Aoyama Resort♨️🍴 Aoyama Plateau #Amazing view of the windmills #Plateau drive #Ise Bay view #Muro Akame Aoyama Quasi-National Park Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel

Located near the Iga Ninja Museum, Garden Resort Hotel Rosa Blanca is a popular choice for travelers seeking a relaxing soak in the open-air hot springs. The grand lobby, designed with a high ceiling, exudes a classical and luxurious ambiance with a retro touch. Guests can choose between Japanese-style or Western-style rooms, but the interior decor predominantly reflects traditional Japanese aesthetics, allowing visitors to experience the charm of a Japanese-style hot spring inn. Nestled amidst vast natural surroundings, the hotel offers guests the opportunity to take leisurely strolls in nature or indulge in skincare treatments and hot spring baths within the hotel premises, providing a truly rejuvenating experience for both body and mind.

🏖️Overview: Mt. Oto is located in Tsu City, Mie Prefecture, and is a mountain⛰️ with two peaks, Odake and Me-dake. It is said that the name was given because the entire mountain looks like a discarded conch shell🐚. On the other hand, Mt. Amagadake is located on the border between Iga City and Tsu City, and is popularly known as "Iga Fuji" because of its beautiful cone-shaped, independent peak. 💞Reasons why we recommend it: I've been curious about the moss🟩 of Mt. Amagadake👩🦲, which seems to be famous. I was attracted by the words 360-degree moss❗️, and there is also a Kansai 100 famous mountain called Murayama nearby, so I decided to climb both. First, we set off for Mt. Oto. After a few minutes, I thought I would encounter a badger-like animal🐻, but next a deer🦌 appeared. After that, we went smoothly and arrived at Mt. Oto. The views were both🙆. Then we went to Mt. Amagadake. We also saw deer 🦌 on the way. The weather suddenly changed when we reached the top. We quickly finished our meal 🍙 and headed to the moss-covered stone path. It was more amazing than I thought❗️ And I came up with a strange song. "Kokekoke, pichi pichi, moss path ♫" That was it. 📍Location: Daihorayama: Misugi-cho, Tsu City, Mie Prefecture Amagatake: Takao, Iga City, Mie Prefecture 📍Access: When climbing Daihorayama, it is common to use the "Mitake no Sakura" parking lot (free) #Domestic Travel Strategy #Daihorayama #Amagatake #Moss

Introducing Tomato Cafe, a cafe located on the grounds of Igarito Handmade Mokumoku Farm in Iga City, Mie Prefecture! This cafe is located in the free area of ​​Mokumoku Farm, so anyone can use it. The parfait made with sweet tomatoes like fruit is especially delicious and is my favorite dessert that I order every time! The hamburger with plenty of ingredients is also very delicious 😋 Why not stop by when you go to Iga? 📍Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture 518-1301 🕰️Business hours: 10:00~17:00 💰Price per person: From 1,000 yen #Spring 0 yen trip

This is a ninja-style city. Whether it is a station Or the Visitor Center｜Information Center Ninjas are everywhere 1. If you want to dress up, remember to go to the visitor center Cost 💲1500 yen You can choose a full set of long-sleeved or short-sleeved clothes for adults or children Then head to the Ninja Museum, which is about a 7-minute walk away. 2. Visit the Ninja performance at Ashura Dojo (additional fee of 500 yuan) To search the official website on Google You can check the performance time (about 40 minutes) 3. You need to purchase a separate admission ticket to the Ninja Museum You can buy it at Klook which is cheaper Ticket holders can enter the room to watch ninjas. Show different mechanisms (free) Each performance lasts about 30 minutes or one hour.

📍Japanese Sweets Workshop Matchin A Japanese sweets shop where you can buy the best warabimochi. The real warabimochi is soft and chewy! It's just so delicious! The other Japanese sweets are also very delicious, Recommended for yourself or as a souvenir! 【INFORMATION】 Japanese Sweets Workshop Matchin 📮518-0832 615-43 Ueno Kurasakacho, Iga City, Mie Prefecture 🕑10:00-18:00 #0 Yen Trip February 2025

📍Kanaya Main Store When it comes to the finest Mie cuisine, this is the place to go! You can eat the finest sukiyaki and shabu-shabu! Sukiyaki with butter is even more exquisite when eaten with grated daikon radish! A must-try gourmet spot when you come to Iga City! 【INFORMATION】 Kanaya Main Store 📮518-0831 434 Ueno Nomincho, Iga City, Mie Prefecture 🕑11:00-13:30 16:00-18:30 #0 Yen Trip February 2025

Introducing Mokumoku Farm, an experiential farm in Iga City! In front of the farm, there is a free foot bath, a direct sales store for locally grown vegetables, and a cafe. At the farm, you can watch pig shows, experience making sausages, and pick mushrooms. There is also a mini horse riding experience on a small farm and playground equipment for children. It's sure to be fun for the whole family! 📍Address: 3609 Nishiyufune, Iga City, Mie Prefecture, 518-1392 💰Price per person: 800 yen for adults, 600 yen for children #0 yen trip February 2025

#favouriteitinerary Nestled in Iga, Mie Prefecture, the Iga-ryu Ninja Museum offers an immersive dive into the clandestine world of ninjas. Visitors are guided through a traditional ninja residence, revealing concealed doors, escape routes, and hidden weapon caches. The museum showcases over 400 authentic ninja tools, providing a tangible connection to Japan’s espionage heritage. A highlight is the live ninja show, where performers demonstrate weapon techniques with a blend of skill and humour, captivating audiences of all ages. While the museum’s location is somewhat remote, the rich historical insights and engaging displays make it a worthwhile destination for those intrigued by ninja lore. My rating: 4 ⭐️ out of 5!

In Iga Ueno, the tourist spot is Ueno Castle, which gives off the atmosphere of the Warring States period. Walking around the castle, you can feel the history as the atmosphere of the time remains. The whole town is also known as a ninja town, and you can enjoy the ninja feeling by seeing handmade ninja decorations everywhere. In addition, the "Ninja Train" designed by Leiji Matsumoto also runs on the Iga Railway, inviting you to a fantastical world. #IgaUeno #UenoCastle #Ninja #LeijiMatsumoto #NinjaTrain #IgaRailway #Mie #0YenTravelFebruary2025

Mie Prefecture is famous for ninjas, and you can see them even at the station.

Iga Ueno is laid out like a chessboard, and the temples and samurai residences in the city have retained their original appearance. Iga Ueno Castle is known as the "White Phoenix Castle" for its elegant white walls. It is also known for having the highest stone walls in Japan, which is why it was chosen as the filming location for Akira Kurosawa's "Throne of Blood." This is the birthplace of the famous haiku poet Matsuo Basho (1644–1694, who is as famous in Japan as Li Bai is in China). Even though he traveled all over Japan, he always thought of his hometown. To commemorate this great poet, the Haiseiden was built near Ueno Castle in 1942. The building is designed to resemble Basho's traveling attire, with a round roof symbolizing a hat, an octagonal eave symbolizing a cassock, pillars symbolizing a cane, and a plaque symbolizing a face. This is also the birthplace of the Iga ninja. The Ninja Museum next to Ueno Castle is said to have the largest collection of ninja artifacts in the world.