About Uwajimajo(Castle)
Uwajima Castle, located in Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture, is one of Japan's most famous castles and is highly regarded for its historical value as a castle with an existing wooden keep. The castle was built by Takatora Todo in 1601 during the early Edo period, and is also known as the castle used by the Date family as their residence. Uwajima Castle is one of the "12 original castles" and its beautiful keep gives visitors a sense of the breath of history.
The main attraction of Uwajima Castle is the magnificent view offered by its elevated location. From the castle tower, one can look down on the city of Uwajima and Uwajima Bay, and especially on a clear day, one can enjoy the sight of the beautiful coastline stretching far into the distance. This view demonstrates the strategic value of the location, which was chosen by the castle's former lord to monitor the movements of his enemies.
The castle's wooden structure has been preserved intact, allowing visitors to feel the historical architectural techniques. In particular, there are exhibits inside the castle related to the life and culture of the time, allowing visitors to gain a deeper understanding of the castle's history and the background of its construction. The steep stairs and narrow passages in the castle keep are especially interesting for history buffs, as they give visitors a sense of the defensive structure of the Warring States period.
Uwajima Castle is also a place where visitors can enjoy the natural scenery of the four seasons. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom, turning the area around the castle a beautiful pink. In autumn, the stone walls of the castle are decorated with autumn leaves, and in winter, snowy landscapes create a quiet beauty. This harmony with nature is one of the main attractions of Uwajima Castle.
The area surrounding Uwajima Castle is also dotted with a museum where visitors can learn about the history of the Date family and facilities that introduce the traditional culture of Uwajima. This allows visitors not only to see the castle, but also to experience the history and culture of the region in depth. Uwajima is also famous for its abundant seafood, and visitors can look forward to tasting fresh local seafood.
Uwajima Castle is a sightseeing spot that combines its historical value with the beauty of nature, making it a special place that offers new impressions each time you visit. As a place where you can enjoy both history and nature, it is a must-visit attraction when visiting Shikoku.