Things to do in Uwajima

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Uwajima, a charming port city on the southern coast of Ehime Prefecture on Shikoku Island, offers a unique blend of maritime heritage, cultural experiences, and natural beauty.

Beyond being a gateway to Shikoku’s stunning landscapes, Uwajima boasts a thriving pearl industry, a fascinating bullfighting tradition, and a rich historical tapestry.

From exploring the impressive Uwajima Castle to witnessing the unique spectacle of bullfighting and indulging in fresh seafood, Uwajima promises a diverse and enriching experience for travelers seeking a cultural immersion beyond the usual tourist trail.

A Maritime Legacy:

Uwajima Castle: Step back in time and explore Uwajima Castle, a well-preserved structure dating back to the 16th century. This impressive castle, overlooking the city and the Uwa Sea, served as the seat of the Date clan for over two centuries. Ascend the keep, explore the various buildings showcasing historical artifacts, and appreciate the intricate details that reflect the region’s architectural heritage.
Uwajima Pearl Industry: Delve into the world of pearl cultivation, a cornerstone of Uwajima’s economy. Visit a pearl farm or museum to learn about the intricate process of cultivating pearls, from seeding oysters to harvesting the final lustrous gems. Enjoy a workshop where you can create your own pearl jewelry or browse the numerous shops in the city offering a wide range of pearl products.
Uwa Sea Exploration: Embark on a boat tour or ferry ride to explore the Uwa Sea, a rich ecosystem teeming with marine life. Observe dolphins and whales in their natural habitat, go fishing for seasonal catches, or simply admire the scenic coastline dotted with small islands and charming fishing villages.

Cultural Encounters:

Uwajima Bullfighting: Witness a unique cultural tradition at the Uwajima Bullfighting Festival, held five times a year. Unlike Spanish bullfighting, this event focuses on controlled grappling between bulls, showcasing their strength and resilience. Observe the traditional rituals and ceremonies surrounding the event, and immerse yourself in this unique cultural spectacle.
Date Museum: Delve deeper into the history and legacy of the Date clan, who ruled Uwajima for over 260 years, at the Date Museum. The museum showcases various exhibits featuring samurai armor and weaponry, historical documents, and everyday objects, offering insights into the clan’s life and influence on the region.
Doanmachi Street: Stroll down Doanmachi Street, a traditional street lined with shops and restaurants catering to pilgrims and visitors. Browse through a variety of local crafts and souvenirs, sample regional delicacies like “sanuki udon” (thick wheat noodles), or simply soak up the lively atmosphere of this historical street.

Culinary Delights:

Fresh Seafood Feast: Uwajima, with its proximity to the Uwa Sea, boasts an abundance of fresh seafood. Indulge in sushi featuring local catches, savor a steaming bowl of seafood donburi (rice bowl), or explore the lively fish market where the freshest seasonal offerings are on display.
Jakoten: Sample “jakoten,” a unique local dish featuring flattened and fried whole fish, including bones. This flavorful and economical dish offers a taste of Uwajima’s traditional cuisine.
Mikan Citrus Delights: Ehime Prefecture, where Uwajima is located, is renowned for its production of mikan, a type of Japanese citrus fruit. Sample fresh mikan in season, savor delicious mikan-flavored treats like ice cream and pastries, or explore local shops offering mikan-infused products.

Uwajima offers a unique opportunity to combine historical exploration with cultural immersion and a taste of the sea. From exploring the impressive Uwajima Castle and witnessing the unique spectacle of bullfighting to indulging in fresh seafood and learning about the thriving pearl industry, Uwajima promises a rewarding and unforgettable experience for travelers seeking a taste of authentic Japan.

Honshu Connections: Several options exist for travelers arriving from Honshu. Take a limited express train from Okayama Station or Hiroshima Station, with connections to Uwajima Station. Travel times vary depending on the chosen route and connection, ranging from roughly 2.5 to 4 hours.
Domestic Flights: While less frequent, domestic flights connect Matsuyama Airport (MYJ) on Shikoku Island to Uwajima Airport (UJM). Consider this option if flying directly into Uwajima aligns best with your travel itinerary.
Ferry Connections: For a more scenic journey, explore ferry options from surrounding islands or cities. Ferry services connect Uwajima Port to Matsuyama City (Ehime Prefecture) and Yawatahama City (Ehime Prefecture), offering a chance to experience the beauty of the Seto Inland Sea.

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