In the end, Yoshitaka's young son, Hatakeyama Haruōmaru, was backed as his successor, but the real authority was held by a senior retainer, Chō Tsugutsura.

The members of the Noto-Hatakeyama clan resented Kenshin intervention in their affairs by making clear an intention for a showdown against Uesugi.

In 1576, Uesugi Kenshin led 20,000 troops to invade Etchu and to capture Nanao Castle.

In 1577, after Kenshin reduced the outlying fortresses that supported the castle of Nanao, he beginning a second siege.

The castle held out until autumn, by which time Tsugutsura had sent a message to Oda Nobunaga in order to seek his assistance.