Bull Fighting

Bullfighting (闘牛) in Uwajima, also known as Ushi-zumo (牛相撲), is a traditional Japanese sport that takes place in the city’s bullfighting arena. This unique style of bullfighting, distinct from Spanish bullfighting, involves two bulls competing in an enclosed ring, with the aim of forcing the other bull to retreat or concede defeat by pushing it out of the ring or making it fall.

The Uwajima bullfighting arena, also known as the Uwajima Togyujo (宇和島市闘牛場), is located about 1.5 kilometers east of Uwajima Station and can accommodate up to 5,000 spectators. Bullfighting in Uwajima has a long history, dating back to the Edo period (1603-1868), and has become an important cultural event for the local community, fostering a sense of pride and tradition.

Unlike Spanish bullfighting, Uwajima bullfighting does not involve any matadors or weapons, making it a relatively bloodless sport. The bulls are allowed to fight each other in a natural and unchoreographed way, showcasing their strength and agility. These bulls are specifically bred for this purpose and are well-cared for by their owners, who have a deep respect for the animals and their fighting spirit.

TOC

Getting there
Tournaments
Uwajima Togyujo

Getting there

By Train

From Matsuyama:

Take the JR Yosan Line to Uwajima Station
Limited express: 80 minutes, about 3000 yen
Local train: 3 hours, 1830 yen

From Uwajima Station

Free shuttle buses run on event days:
Operate between 10:00 and 12:00 before the event
Return trips available after the event

By Car

The arena is about 1.5 kilometers east of Uwajima Station
Free parking available on a large unpaved lot

Tournaments

New Year Tournament	January 2nd
May Tournament	May 3rd
Warei Taisai Festival Tournament	July 23rd
Autumn Tournament	Fourth Sunday in October

Advance Ticket	Age 16 and above: 2,500 yen
Door Ticket	Age 16 and above: 3,000 yen

Uwajima Togyujo

Hours	8:30 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Free (Photo exhibition, VR experience and Site tour)
Phone	+81 895-25-3511
Address	1 Chome-496-2 Wareicho, Uwajima, Ehime 798-0017
Official Website	https://www.uwajima.org/spot/tougyujyou.html