What to know
Uwajima (宇和島) is a coastal city in southern Ehime Prefecture, facing the Bungo Channel that separates Kyushu from Shikoku. This small city is home to one of only twelve surviving original castles from the feudal era. The Date Museum tells the story of Uwajima and the Date clan, who ruled the area for about 250 years.
As a coastal city, Uwajima has industries tied to the sea, including fishing and pearl farming. It is one of Japan's top pearl producers. Local specialties include Taimeshi (sea bream over rice) and Jakoten (fish cake). The waterfront offers beautiful coastal scenery, and Uwajima is also famous for its bullfighting tradition.
