Overview

About the Castle

Uwajima Castle is a coastal fortress built in 1601 (Keicho 6) by Tōdō Takatora, the "master of castle construction." It stands as one of Japan's twelve surviving towers, radiating quiet majesty at the western tip of Shikoku. Takatora was a genius of castle architecture, involved in building and renovating approximately 20 castles throughout his life, and Uwajima Castle ranks among his masterpieces. Perched on a hilltop surrounded by sea on three sides of Uwajima Bay, the castle features a distinctive asymmetric pentagonal layout. This irregular form exemplifies Takatora's ingenious design, maximizing the terrain while fortifying against maritime assault.

History of Construction

When viewed from above, the castle appears pentagonal; from ground level, it appears square—an optical illusion deliberately designed to obscure its true form from the enemy. After Takatora's transfer to Ise and Iga in 1608 (Keicho 13), Tomita Nobutaka took command that year. Subsequently, in 1615 (Genna 1), Date Hidemune, a branch of the Sendai Date family, was invested as lord of Uwajima with 100,000 koku. Though Hidemune was the eldest son of Date Masamune, his illegitimate status barred him from inheriting Sendai; instead, he founded a new Date lineage in Uwajima.

Architecture and Structure

The Uwajima Date clan governed this domain for approximately 250 years until the Bakumatsu era, cultivating a distinctive regional culture. In 1666 (Kanbun 6), the second lord, Date Munetoshi, rebuilt the tower, and the current three-story, three-tiered structure was completed. Munetoshi's tower is defined by its highly decorative and refined elegance, designed for aesthetic rather than martial purpose. The ornate design—abundant with karahafu and chidorihafu—embodies the daimyo aesthetic of the peaceful era. From the castle peak, one commands unobstructed views of Uwajima Bay's serene inlet, the bullfighting town of Uwajima, and the Nanyo mountain range.

Development of the Castle Town

Its remote location at Shikoku's western tip shields it from tourist crowds, preserving the tranquil atmosphere of a traditional castle town. During the Bakumatsu period, the eighth lord, Date Munenari, earned recognition as one of the "Four Wise Lords," championing domain reform and advocating foreign trade—contributions instrumental to the Meiji Restoration. His progressive vision is remarkable for steering national politics from a minor frontier domain. Uwajima is renowned for pearl cultivation and tai-meshi. The abundant natural surroundings and culinary heritage of Nanyo enrich any visit. The town itself stands as a major center of pearl cultivation, a place where maritime bounty and the tranquil character of a castle town coexist in singular harmony.

Tourism and Experience

Situated at Shikoku's western tip, Uwajima is a hidden gem rarely crowded with visitors, offering a leisurely castle tour. For enthusiasts pursuing the complete "Twelve Surviving Towers" circuit, Uwajima Castle is an essential Shikoku destination. The "Four Surviving Towers Tour of Shikoku"—linking Uwajima, Matsuyama, Kōchi, and Marugame castles—represents the ultimate dream route for castle devotees.

Connection to Swords

The Uwajima Date clan, a branch of the Sendai Date family, shared the main family's deep appreciation for swords. The Uwajima domain had its own active swordsmiths, contributing to Iyo Province's sword culture. Tōdō Takatora, though renowned as a castle architect, was also a seasoned warrior who survived the Sengoku era by serving successive lords, wielding swords in numerous battles. Iyo Province (Ehime) is also notable for the Ōyamazumi Shrine on Ōmishima Island (Imabari), which houses one of Japan's largest collections of National Treasure and Important Cultural Property weaponry. A combined visit to Uwajima Castle and Ōyamazumi Shrine provides a full experience of Iyo's martial heritage.