Imabari Castle

Imabari Castle (今治城) is a beautiful and historically significant landmark in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, on the western side of Shikoku Island. The castle was built in the early 17th century by Tōdō Takatora, a feudal lord known for his expertise in castle construction. Tōdō Takatora is also credited with Nijo Castle in Kyoto and Ozu Castle, also in Ehima Prefecture. Imabari Castle played an important role in Japanese history, and it continues to be a popular destination for tourists today.

The castle was strategically built on a small island in the Sasaki River, giving it a natural moat and defensive advantage against attackers. Its construction was meant to control access between Shikoku and Honshu, ensuring the safety of the region. Because of this, unlike most castles in Japan, Imabari Castle was not built on top of a hill, which makes this castle a flatland castle, similiar to Hiroshima Castle, or Nijo Castle.

Visitors can explore the castle grounds and climb to the top of the tower to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area. The castle grounds are particularly popular among locals during Cherry Blossom season, as the numerous cherry trees and other seasonal plants are in bloom, making Imabari castle absolutely beautiful.
Inside the castle tower, there is a museum that showcases the history of Imabari Castle and the surrounding region. The exhibits include artifacts and displays that explain the castle’s construction, the battles that took place in the area, and the daily life of the people who lived in the castle.