Uwajima Castle — Original Keep with Coastal Views

Uwajima Castle is one of only twelve Japanese castles retaining an original Edo-period tenshu (main keep), built in 1666 atop an 80-meter hill overlooking Uwajima City and bay. The three-story keep is relatively small and intimate compared to grand castles like Himeji, but its authentic architecture, steep original stairs, and clifftop position create a powerful historical atmosphere.

The castle grounds feature well-preserved stone walls and a spiral path ascending through forest to the keep. The small scale and fewer tourists make Uwajima Castle feel more authentic than heavily-visited castle destinations.