Shiro-yama was previously Hasedo-jo, Hasedo Castle, a major location in The Siege of Hasedo, Dewa Province’s Battle of Sekigahara. During The Siege of Hasedo, Uesugi Kagekatsu‘s senior retainer Naoe Kanetsugu who supported Ishida Mitsunari of the Western Army fought against Mogami Yoshiaki supporting Tokugawa Ieyasu of the Eastern Army. Hasedo-jo became known as powerful fortress during this battle. This is because Mogami Yoshiaki’s men were able to hold out against an invasion of Uesugi’s men, in spite of Uesugi having ten times the military might. You can find the remains of the castle all over Shiro-yama, such as the moat, dirt enclosures, and other defensive artefacts.

The summit of Shiro-yama has a clearing with stone monuments and a gazebo. From here, you can see Sugesawa-yama, the mountain Naoe Kanetsugu used as his headquarters, central Yamagata City, and Kajo Koen, the remains of Yamagata Castle. Locals planted and a lot of vegetation, and a lot occurs naturally. Their valiant efforts over the years created a wonderful mountain to explore.

Osusume Shuyu Trail (recommended loop trail, 20 minutes one-way)

Start at the Hachiman-Saki trailhead at the northern end of the Hasedojo-ato Koen (Hasedojo castle remains park) near route 348. There is a car park and public toilets in the clearing on the other side of the road. Once past Hachiman Jinja (shrine), go up the dirt foundations and around the park grounds.

Each junction has a sign, so you shouldn’t get lost. There are plaques at the moat and foundations where you can learn about the remains and construction methods of mountain castles. Also, stairs line the steep parts, so children and the elderly can enjoy the paths. A few shrines dot the mountain, and near the main hall there is an old shidarezakura (weeping cherry blossom) and Rhododendron degronianum flowers. On the western slop lies a field of spider lilies, so you can enjoy the flora year-round.