The most moving part of visiting Uwajima Castle in Ehime, Shikoku, was seeing firsthand the rustic beauty of one of Japan's precious twelve original castle keeps. This historic castle, first built by renowned castle architect Todo Takatora and later renovated by the Date clan, perfectly preserves the wooden craftsmanship of the Edo period and exudes an elegance and composure refined over time.
I slowly made my way to the top along the lush stone steps and walked through the old-growth forest of Shiroyama Park, where the gentle breeze helped ease much of my fatigue. Upon entering the three-story castle keep, I was greeted by the scent of wood. From the top floor, there were sweeping views of the streets of Uwajima and the blue waters of the Uwa Sea. The scenery of the mountains and sea together was refreshing and uplifting.
