The Compact Fortress: My Solo Visit to Uwajima Castle, Ehime

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Perched on a modest hill in the heart of Uwajima city, Uwajima Castle is one of Japan's twelve original castles that has survived the centuries. Unlike the sprawling complexes of Matsuyama or Himeji, it offers an intimate and authentic experience. For a solo traveler, it's a chance to appreciate the elegant simplicity of a samurai stronghold without the crowds, all while enjoying serene views of the city and Uwajima Bay.

My Solo Itinerary:

· Morning – A Gentle Climb & Original Keep: I started with the short, peaceful walk up the hill to the castle grounds. The main tenshu (keep) is a beautiful, three-story structure that feels more like an elegant watchtower than a massive fortress. I took my time inside, admiring the original wooden construction and the small but interesting museum of samurai artifacts. The view from the top floor over the tiled roofs of Uwajima and the bay was simple and charming.
· Afternoon – Grounds & Local Bullfighting: I explored the quiet castle grounds, including the stone walls and the reconstructed yagura (turret). Afterwards, I walked to the nearby Uwajima Date Museum to learn about the Date clan who ruled here. If my timing was right, I checked the schedule for Uwajima's unique "Tōgyū" (bullfighting)—a traditional and less violent spectacle than Spanish bullfighting.
· Evening – Seaside Stroll & Jakoten: I headed towards the harbor for a relaxing stroll. For dinner, I tried Uwajima's famous jakoten, a delicious local fish cake made from minced white fish, best enjoyed fresh from a street vendor or a small local restaurant.

Why Uwajima Castle is Perfect for Solo Travelers:

· Authentic & Intimate: Its small scale and original status make it a genuine and personal historical experience.
· Quick & Rewarding: It can be thoroughly enjoyed in just a couple of hours, leaving plenty of time to explore the rest of the charming city.
· Peaceful & Uncrowded: You'll likely have the castle keep and paths largely to yourself.
· A Glimpse of Local Life: The castle is integrated into the city, offering a view of everyday life in a smaller Japanese city.

Tips for Your Visit:

· 🚶 It's an easy 15-minute walk from Uwajima Station to the castle foot.
· 🐂 Check the Uwajima Tourism website for the Tōgyū bullfighting schedule—it's a unique cultural experience.
· 🍢 Don't leave without trying jakoten—it's the city's signature taste.
· 🌳 Enjoy the relaxed pace. This is a castle for savoring, not for rushing.

Uwajima Castle is a humble gem. It proves that you don't need immense size to possess great historical charm and character.

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