Uwajima Castle is one of only 12 castles in Japan that still has its original keep (tenshu). It is an easy day trip from Matsuyama, the capital of Ehime prefecture on Shikoku island. A small, cute castle, it is worth visiting at any time of the year, but especially during cherry blossom season. In the days before I visited Uwajima Castle, I had been to Marugame Castle, Takamatsu Castle and Kochi Castle, but hadn’t seen cherry blossoms at any of them. So I was delighted when I reached Uwajima Castle and the sakura was in full bloom!
Getting to Uwajima from Matsuyama
• Train route: JR Yosan Line from Matsuyama to Uwajima (approx. 75–90 minutes).
• Trains depart once an hour
• A seat reservation is not necessary, but during busy periods making one would be a good idea!
Anpanman-themed trains run on several lines operated by the Shikoku Railway Company. On my way back to Matsuyama I was lucky enough to end up on one!
A Brief History of Uwajima Castle
Uwajima Castle was constructed between 1596 and 1601 by Todo Takatora, a renowned castle designer and daimyo (feudal lord). Eventually Uwajima Domain was assigned to Date Hidemune, the son of the famous daimyo Date Masamune. Uwajima Castle remained under the domain of the Date clan for 11 generations until the Meiji Restoration.
Despite suffering from various earthquakes and military conflicts, the castle and its walls were rebuilt and maintained over the years.
Climbing to the Castle
From Uwajima Station, it is about a 10-15 minute walk to the beginning of the path up to Uwajima Castle.
In front of the path there is a tourist information centre with a gift shop, vending machines, and toilets.
From the tourist information centre it takes a further 10-15 minutes to reach Uwajima Castle. There are two possible routes you can take: either a rugged set of stone steps or a gentle slope where you pass through a playground before reaching the castle. As the steps looked uneven and steep, I opted for the uphill path instead.
After passing through the park and climbing some stone steps, Uwajima Castle came into view. I was amazed by how beautiful it looked surrounded by cherry blossoms. There was a large tour group in front of me going into the castle, so as I waited for them to leave, I admired the cherry blossoms.
Exploring the Castle Keep
At the entrance to the castle keep, you will need to pay a 200 yen admission fee. You will have to change into slippers and place your shoes on a shelf while you explore the castle keep. You will gradually climb to the top of the three-story tower using wooden stairs.
Inside the castle you will see samurai armor, paintings, and an old drum.
When you reach the top, you will see lovely views of Uwajima City, the Seto Inland Sea and Uwajima Bay.
On the main floor of the castle keep there are several souvenir stamps available, including the 100 Castle stamp if you have a 100 Best Castles or 24 Best Castles stamp collection book.
On the day I visited, there was even free origami available – mini traditional-style shirts!
When is the Best Time to Visit Uwajima Castle?
The best time to visit Uwajima Castle is during cherry blossom season, when you can take pictures of the castle surrounded by cherry blossom trees. I visited during sakura season in March 2025 and enjoyed sitting under the cherry blossom trees and admiring the castle. On a weekday afternoon the castle did not have too many visitors. I even had a few moments when I was almost completely alone with the castle!
How Much Time Do I Need to Visit Uwajima Castle?
Allow about 1 hour to walk to and from the castle and Uwajima Station and 1-1.5 hours to explore the castle keep and the grounds.
Optional Stop: Ozu Castle
On the train to and from Uwajima, I spotted Ozu Castle surrounded by cherry blossom trees from my window and regretted not planning enough time to go there!
It is possible to include a stop at Ozu Castle as part of your day trip from Matsuyama to Uwajima, but you should depart Matsuyama around 8:00 AM to make the most of your day. Check train schedules carefully as trains do not come frequently in rural Shikoku. Plan to spend 1-1.5 hours in Ozu and 2-2.5 hours in Uwajima.
One unique thing about Ozu Castle is that it can even be booked for an overnight stay – if you can afford it. The rate is 660,000 yen per person with a minimum occupancy of 2 people and a maximum occupancy of 6 people. Guests are welcomed by samurai guards, served a delicious meal and entertained with music and dance by a theatre troupe.
Route Overview
Matsuyama -> Ozu: 30-40 minutes by JR Yosan Line (local or limited express)
Ozu -> Uwajima: 60 minutes by JR Yosan Line (local or limited express)
Uwajima -> Mastuyama: 75-90 minutes by JR Yosan Line (local or limited express)
