Uwajima Castle
Discover a hidden gem among Japan's rare original castles
Uwajima Castle was originally built in 1601 by Toda Takatora, one of Japan's most renowned castle architects who designed over 20 castles. The castle was later ruled by the Date clan from 1614 until the Meiji Restoration, maintaining its strategic importance as a coastal fortress protecting against naval threats. The current three-story keep dates from 1666 and represents the Date clan's reconstruction after the original structure deteriorated. Unlike larger castles, Uwajima's compact design creates an intimate atmosphere while maintaining defensive capabilities.
The castle is one of only twelve remaining original castle keeps in Japan (as opposed to modern concrete reconstructions). Its small scale - with only three stories and a modest footprint - belies its historical significance and architectural quality. The castle survived the Meiji-era demolitions that destroyed most Japanese castles and avoided bombing during World War II, making it an authentic example of Edo-period castle architecture. The castle's hilltop location, surrounded by intact stone walls and defensive structures, preserves the strategic military character of feudal fortifications.
Today, Uwajima Castle offers visitors an intimate encounter with authentic castle architecture without the crowds that plague more famous sites. The 15-minute climb through forested paths to the keep provides a sense of approaching a mountain fortress. The castle's designation as an Important Cultural Property recognizes both its architectural authenticity and historical value. The small interior allows close examination of traditional construction techniques, wooden beams, and steep stairs characteristic of defensive architecture. Views from the keep encompass Uwajima city, harbor, and surrounding mountains.
Key Highlights
- One of twelve original Edo-period castle keeps remaining in Japan
- Built in 1601 by master castle architect Toda Takatora
- Three-story keep dating from 1666 (Date clan reconstruction)
- 15-minute forested hillside walk to castle creates atmospheric approach
- Intact stone walls and defensive structures
- Designated Important Cultural Property
- Uncrowded - authentic castle experience without tourist masses
- Views of Uwajima city, harbor, and Shikoku mountains
Access Information
Location
1 Marunouchi, Uwajima, Ehime 798-0060
Nearest Stations
- • Uwajima Station (JR Yosan Line) - 20-minute walk to castle base
Opening Hours
Grounds: 6:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Castle keep interior: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM (last entry). Open daily, closed irregularly for maintenance.
Admission Fee
Adults ¥200, High school/younger free. Very affordable entry.
How to Get There
From Matsuyama
Take JR Limited Express Uwakai to Uwajima Station (90 min, ¥2,850), walk 20 minutes to castle base, climb 15 minutes to keep
90 minutes
From Osaka
Shinkansen to Okayama, Limited Express to Matsuyama, local to Uwajima (long journey - consider overnight)
5 hours
Tips & Visiting Guide
Make the most of your visit with these helpful tips and guidelines.
Approaching the Castle
15-minute uphill walk through forest from base to keep. Well-maintained stone steps but can be slippery when wet. The forested approach creates atmospheric experience missing at urban castles. Take your time, enjoy the climb.
Inside the Keep
Steep wooden stairs typical of original castles (60-degree angle). Small interior allows close examination of construction. Three floors display historical information and artifacts. Top floor offers 360-degree views. Allow 30-40 minutes for interior exploration.
Photography
Best exterior shots from stone wall base looking up. Interior photography allowed. City and harbor views from top floor. Forested hillside setting creates different atmosphere than plain-sitting castles. Morning light best for keep's white walls.
Visit Duration
1.5-2 hours total including walk to base (20 min from station), climb (15 min), castle tour (30-40 min), descent (10 min), walk back. Easy half-day activity. Combine with local attractions for full day in Uwajima.
Uwajima Attractions
Taga Shrine (unique fertility shrine with unusual museum), Tenshaen Garden (beautiful daimyo garden), morning fish market, pearl farming. Uwajima is off beaten path but rewarding for those making the journey.
Local Specialties
Uwajima tai-meshi (sea bream rice) is local specialty - raw tai over rice with special sauce (¥1,200-¥2,000). Different from Matsuyama's cooked version. Fresh fish from Uwa Sea excellent. Limited English menus but pointing works.
Getting Around Uwajima
Castle, Taga Shrine, and Tenshaen Garden all within walking distance of station (20-30 minutes each). Town is compact. Taxi available for short trips (¥700-¥1,000). Most visitors walk.
Off-Beaten-Path Appeal
Uwajima is remote (90 min from Matsuyama) but rewards effort. Original castle without crowds of Himeji or Matsumoto. Authentic small-town Japan atmosphere. Consider overnight stay to explore leisurely. Combines well with Shimanami Kaido cycling if touring Shikoku.
FAQ
Is Uwajima Castle an original structure?
Yes, Uwajima Castle's three-story keep is one of only 12 original castles remaining in Japan, dating from 1666. While smaller and less famous than others, its authenticity and hilltop setting make it historically significant. The original architecture provides genuine Edo-period castle experience.
How long does the castle visit take?
The uphill walk from the base to the castle takes 15-20 minutes through forested paths. Exploring the keep interior and grounds adds another 30-45 minutes. Total visit time is 60-90 minutes. The compact size makes it manageable even with limited time.
How steep is the climb to the castle?
The approach involves stone steps and slopes through the forest. It's moderately challenging but manageable for most visitors with reasonable fitness. The climb is more gentle than some other hilltop castles. Take your time and enjoy the forest atmosphere. Benches provide rest spots.
What can I see inside the castle?
The keep interior displays samurai armor, weapons, and historical artifacts related to the Date clan who ruled Uwajima. The original wooden architecture and construction techniques are visible. Top floor views overlook Uwajima city and surrounding mountains. Exhibits are primarily in Japanese.
Is Uwajima worth visiting for castle enthusiasts?
For those collecting original castles, yes. While smaller and simpler than castles like Himeji or Matsumoto, Uwajima offers authentic Edo-period architecture without reconstruction. The less touristy nature provides peaceful exploration. Combine with other Uwajima attractions for a full experience.
What else is there to see in Uwajima?
Taga Shrine (fertility shrine with unusual exhibits), the city's bullfighting arena (tōgyū—different from Spanish bullfighting, bull vs. bull), and Tenshaen Garden. Local cuisine features sea bream rice. Uwajima offers interesting cultural experiences beyond the castle.
Are there English explanations?
Limited English signage exists. English pamphlets are available at the entrance. The castle's small size means less extensive interpretation than major castles. The architectural authenticity is impressive regardless of language barriers. Consider researching beforehand for historical context.
When is the best time to visit?
Cherry blossom season (late March-early April) sees the castle surrounded by sakura. Summer can be hot and humid for the uphill walk. Autumn offers comfortable weather and some foliage. Winter is quiet. Early morning or late afternoon provides pleasant light for photography.
How do I get to Uwajima?
JR limited express trains from Matsuyama take about 90 minutes. From Kochi, trains take similar time. Uwajima is the terminus of the Yosan Line. The castle is a 15-20 minute walk from Uwajima Station. Having a car provides flexibility for exploring the wider region.
Can I combine Uwajima with other destinations?
Uwajima works well as a stop between Matsuyama and Kochi. The Shimanto River area and Ashizuri Cape are within the southern Shikoku region. Most visitors include Uwajima as part of a multi-day Shikoku tour rather than a standalone destination.
Nearby Attractions
Explore more wonderful destinations in the same prefecture.
Dogo Onsen
One of Japan's oldest hot springs with over 3,000 years of history, famous for inspiring the bathhouse in Spirited Away. The iconic Honkan building is a stunning example of Meiji-era architecture.
Matsuyama Castle
One of twelve original castles in Japan, perched atop Mount Katsuyama with ropeway access and commanding views over Matsuyama city and Seto Inland Sea.
Shikoku Karst Plateau
Spectacular highland plateau at 1,400m elevation with limestone formations, grazing cattle, and panoramic mountain vistas creating a landscape reminiscent of the Swiss Alps.
Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route
Japan's most scenic 70-kilometer cycling route crossing six islands via suspension bridges from Honshu to Shikoku over the Seto Inland Sea.