Japan has a lot of castles; remnants of a time when having a castle meant you controlled the surrounding lands. Imabari Castle is one of the most interesting castles I have ever visited and has so much character and history that it has become one of my favourite castles in Japan.
Imabari Castle
Originally built by Todo Takatora (interestingly I found out he also built Uwajima Castle) after being awarded the lands of Imabari by Tokugawa Ieyasu because Todo sided with him during an important battle. Like most castles in Japan, it was deconstructed during the Meiji Restoration but eventually rebuilt.
Lots to see and experience
Depending on how much you want to explore and learn, This castle can easily take up many hours if not most of a day. The castle grounds have various attractions and interesting sites such as a natural science museum, various exhibitions and an observatory at the top. I really enjoyed hunting down stamps all over the castle grounds and towers to complete the set and being rewarded with a free postcard. I also made sure to get the Goshuin stamp for my collection at the shrine as well.
What is your favourite Japanese castle?
Imabari Castle is definitely worth visiting whether you are doing the Shimanami Kaido, exploring Shikoku or just passing through. I was lucky to visit it in spring on a day with perfect weather and blooming cherry blossoms. Have you ever been to Imabari Castle? What is your favourite castle in Japan? Tell me in a comment below or tweet me @jamaipanese.
