Uwajima Castle

Uwajima Castle (宇和島城), also known as Tsurushima Castle, is a historic castle located in the city of Uwajima in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. It was originally built on a small island in the bay in 1596 by the feudal lord Todo Takatora and was later expanded and renovated by the Date clan, who ruled the Uwajima Domain from 1615 to 1871. The castle is one of only 12 castles in Japan to retain its original main keep.

The castle is situated on a hill overlooking the city of Uwajima and the surrounding countryside, providing visitors with scenic views. The castle complex includes the five-story main tower, several smaller towers, gates, and walls. The castle grounds also feature a beautiful Japanese garden with ponds, bridges, and a teahouse.

Uwajima Castle is renowned for its unique architectural style, which incorporates elements of both Japanese and Western design, a result of the modernization efforts during the Meiji period. It also houses a collection of historical artifacts and art related to the Date clan and the Uwajima Domain, including samurai armor, swords, paintings, and calligraphy.

Today, Uwajima Castle serves as a museum and cultural center, showcasing the history and culture of the Uwajima region. Visitors can explore the castle grounds, climb the main tower for panoramic views of the city and countryside, and learn about the castle’s history and significance through the exhibits in the museum. The castle is an important cultural asset for Uwajima and attracts tourists from all over Japan and the world.

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 Okayama:

• Take limited express trains via Matsuyama
• Journey time: About 4 hours 15 minutes
• Cost: 8570 yen

By Bus

From Matsuyama:

• Journey time: Slightly faster than regular trains
• Cost: 1750 yen

From Uwajima Station

• 10-15 minute walk to the castle’s northern trailhead
• 2 minute walk to Uwajima Bus Center, which is near the castle

Details

Hours	November to February / 9:00 AM – 4:30 PM March to October / 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Admission	Adults: 200 yen Age 65 and above: 160 yen
Phone	+81 895-22-2832
Address	Marunouchi, Uwajima, Ehime 798-0060
Resources	https://www.city.uwajima.ehime.jp/site/uwajima-jo/