Uwajima Castle is classified as a hilltop castle (its layout: Teikakushiki), and is located in Ehime Prefecture. During the pre-modern age, it found itself within the borders of Iyo Province. It is associated with the Tōdō, Date clans. Dates in use: 1596 - 1871.

The castle at Uwajima is perhaps a little too hard to get to for the average tourist. Located on the Western coast of Shikoku, it requires deliberate planning to take in its sights. The main reason why you would visit the castle is that it is one of just 12 that have managed to retain their original Edo period main tower - an exclusive club given the many 100's that had been originally built.

The castle experienced its share or battles prior to its final expansion around 1600. On two occasions since then, the number of buildings have decreased. The first was about 30 years after the castle was decommissioned and then again in bombing in WWII. The precious main tower aside, there is little else of interest for the castle enthusiast, save for the impressive Date clan museum & some minor gates.

Uwajima's Tenshu

The central tower of Uwajima could hardly be described as menacing or imposing. And not because of it being relatively short in stature either. It has been described as being cute, and I'd tend to agree. There is an undeniable grace in its design though, which may see people rate it above some of its boxy cousins.

Timeline

941	Fortifications were first built.
1236	The fortifications were expanded upon. At that time, the castle was known as Marukushi castle.
1546	The Chōsokabe clan were in possession of the castle when the Ōtomo clan attempted to take it.
1585	The armies of Toyotomi Hideyoshi took possession of the castle. He then put his retainers in charge there.
1595	The Tōdō clan were awarded the domain.
1596	A major restoration of the previous fortifications were initiated by Tōdō Takatora.
1601	The name of the castle was changed to Uwajima upon completion. In the same year, the Tōdō clan were transferred to Imabari Castle further north.
1608	The Tomita clan were transferred here.
1614	Hidemune, the son of the renowned Daimyō Date Masamune, was awarded the domain & entered the following year.
1662	A major restoration on what was a castle in very poor condition was undertaken.
1671	The restoration, including repairs to the main tower, were completed.
1871	The castle was abandoned.
1900	Most of the turrets & gates were torn down.
1945	The Ōte Gate burnt to the ground due to WWII bombing.
1950	The castle was awarded Important Cultural Property status.
1952	The Kōri nagaya gate was transferred to the castle grounds and now acts as its entrance.
1960	A complete restoration of the main tower took place over two years.

Historical recognition

Site	National Historic Site
Main Tower	Important Cultural Property
Noboritachi Gate	City designated Important Cultural Property