# Imabari Castle

> One of Japan's finest sea castles, built by master architect Todo Takatora in 1602, with a moat filled with seawater where fish and rays swim.

- Prefecture: Ehime
- Type: Castle
- Address: Imabari, Ehime, Japan
- Admission: 520 yen
- Official site: https://museum.city.imabari.ehime.jp/imabarijo/

Imabari Castle is one of only three sea castles (umijiro) in Japan, built directly on the coast by the legendary castle architect Todo Takatora in 1602. The castle's most distinctive feature is its moat, which is filled with seawater drawn from the Seto Inland Sea, where visitors can spot fish, rays, and even small sharks swimming beneath the stone walls. The reconstructed five-story keep houses a museum with exhibits on the castle's history, samurai armor, and Imabari's role in maritime trade. From the top floor observation deck, panoramic views extend across the Seto Inland Sea to the islands of the Shimanami Kaido. The castle grounds also feature the Fukiage Shrine and several turrets that can be explored as part of the admission.

## FAQ

### Why is Imabari Castle called a sea castle?

It's one of only three umijiro (sea castles) in Japan, built directly on the coast with moats filled with seawater from the Seto Inland Sea. You can see fish, rays, and sometimes small sharks swimming in the moat beneath the stone walls.

### Can I combine Imabari Castle with the Shimanami Kaido?

Yes! Imabari is the Shikoku end of the Shimanami Kaido cycling route. Visit the castle, then rent a bike to cycle across the island-hopping bridges to Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture (about 70km, 4-6 hours).

### What is Imabari famous for besides the castle?

Imabari is Japan's towel production capital (80% of domestic towels), famous for its yakitori with sweet soy sauce (grilled on iron plates, not skewers), and the gateway to the Shimanami Kaido. Try yakibuta tamago meshi (roast pork and egg on rice) too.

### How do I get there and what's the entry fee?

From JR Imabari Station, take the Setouchi Bus 'Castle' route to Imabari-jo-mae stop, 10 minutes (¥160). The castle is also a 15-minute walk from the station. Adult entry ¥520, junior high/elementary ¥260, under 6 free; covers the keep museum, Bushi Yagura turret, and Tetsugomon. Open 9:00–17:00 (last entry 16:30), closed December 29–31. By car, free parking on-site.

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Source: Imabari Castle — Japan Voyage