ABOUT
About this spot
Located in the heart of Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture, Uwajima Castle is one of the "12 Original Castle Keeps," a rare and precious group of castles whose keeps have survived from the Edo period to the present. It was built between 1596 and 1601 (Keicho 1 to Keicho 6) by Todo Takatora, a renowned master castle builder, and after Date Masamune's eldest son, Hidemune, took residence, it watched over the area for nine generations as the seat of the Uwajima Date family. Standing on a hill about 73 meters above sea level, the white keep is designated an Important Cultural Property, and its small but well-balanced form is its hallmark. The path up to the castle runs through a park rich in nature, where you can stroll among seasonal plants and, in spring, beautiful cherry blossoms. From the top floor of the keep, you can take in not only the Uwajima townscape but also a panoramic view of Uwa Sea with its beautiful ria coastline. There is plenty to see, from the deeply historic stone walls to Takatora's castle layout, which cleverly makes use of the seaside terrain. Why not enjoy the atmosphere of Shiroyama and set out on a historical walk that doubles as pleasant exercise?
Last updated March 29, 2026