Why settle for just looking? Step into history and experience the magnificence of Shikoku's castles firsthand! (Marugame Castle,Matsuyama Castle, Kochi Castle,Ozu Castle etc.)

Marugame Castle is one of the 12 remaining castle towers (genzon tenshu) and has been recognized as one of Japan's 100 best castles. Its impressive stone walls, rising from the inner moat to the tower, form a graceful curve known as the "Ougi(fan) slope." The view of the tower from the Otemon Gate is truly breathtaking.
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Marugame city official website

Marugame Castle offers an exclusive overnight stay at the Enjukaku Annex, where guests can immerse themselves in the castle's timeless ambiance while indulging in the rich cultural heritage of the region. The stay features meals crafted from locally sourced ingredients, providing a true taste of the area’s culinary traditions.
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With over 400 years of history, the "Marugame Traditional Hand Fan (Uchiwa)" embodies the rich heritage, Japanese craftsmanship, and spirit of the region. Recognized as one of the "GREEN DESTINATIONS TOP 100 STORY AWARDS", it highlights a commitment to responsible tourism, next-generation education, and environmental preservation through the artistry of traditional traditional hand fan (Uchiwa)'s fans.
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Get an up-close look at the craftsmanship in the workshop.
Witness a captivating demonstration of traditional traditional hand fan (Uchiwa) making and purchase original fans. Don't miss the chance to create your own traditional hand fan (Uchiwa) - reservations required!
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Experience the enchanting beauty of Marugame Castle every autumn, as the path from the Otemon Gate to the castle keep is aglow with vibrant lights. Make the most of a magical autumn evening at Marugame Castle.
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Tamamo Park, situated on the grounds of the historic Takamatsu Castle, once the residence of the Ikoma Clan, rulers of Sanuki Province, and the Matsudaira Clan, rulers of Takamatsu, is a site of rich cultural significance. Takamatsu Castle is renowned as one of Japan’s three great water castles and is home to numerous important cultural artifacts. The park also serves as a vibrant venue for local events, including cherry blossom viewings in spring and a chrysanthemum exhibition in autumn.
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The moat is filled with seawater from the Seto Inland Sea, allowing sea bream to inhabit it instead of carp. While riding in a traditional Japanese boat, you can even feed the fish! Be sure to take in the impressive keep and enjoy the entertaining tales from the boatman!
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When you visit the castle, be sure to explore this place together!

Ancient ”Yamashiro（mountain castle）” Yashima Castle see more
Hiketa Castle Ruins (Shiroyama) see more
Osaka Castle Ishigaki Ishityouba Site (A stone yard) (Shodoshima Ishtyouba Site) “Tengu Iwatyouba see more

Matsuyama Castle, one of the 12 remaining castles, comprises 21 buildings recognized as important cultural properties. It is listed as one of the "100 Great Castles of Japan" and, along with Dogo Onsen in the city, as one of the "100 Most Beautiful Historical Sites in Japan.
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Matsuyama Castle official website

Experience the awe-inspiring Matsuyama Castle, perched 132 meters above sea level. While the walk up can be challenging, there are easier options such as a ropeway or a lift. Take in the magnificent view of the castle in absolute comfort! For more information, including ticket details, visit the Matsuyama City Official website.
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Experience the mesmerizing Matsuyama night view from the Matsuyama General Park Observation Area, a distinguished "Japan Night View Heritage Site." Enhance your visit by taking in the enchanting night vistas from the Matsuyama Castle tower during the "Hospitality of Light in Matsuyama Castle" event.
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A Night View Heritage of Japan

The tower of Ozu Castle was dismantled at one point, but local residents' donations and conservation efforts led to the wooden tower being restored in 2004. The castle town is also being actively revitalized and utilized. In 2022, it was selected as the No. 1 in the "GREEN DESTINATIONS TOP 100 STORY AWARDS".
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Ozu Castle official website

Embark on a one-of-a-kind experience in Japan! Stay in the castle tower and awaken your senses to history, culture, and climate at the exclusive Ozu Castle.
Ozu Castle Stay official website

Ehime Prefecture is home to many other notable castles, including "Uwajima Castle", with 12 existing castles, and the remains of sea castles built on islands in the Seto Inland Sea.

Imabari Castle see more
Uwajima Castle see more
Kawanoe Castle see more
Ruins of Yuzuki Castle see more
Ruins of Noshima Castle see more
Ruins of Amazaki Castle see more

Kochi Castle stands as one of just 12 remaining castles in the country. It is the sole castle where the complete architectural complex of the main citadel endures. Despite its modest size, visitors can savor all the castle's highlights in a brief visit.
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Kochi Castle official website

Every year, Kochi Park and Kochi Castle are decorated with beautiful floral decorations and performances of Japanese dance and gagaku, a traditional style of Japanese music performed at the Imperial court.

Kochi Castle's castle keep, Kaitokukan (Honmaru Goten), Otemon Gate, and 15 other buildings have been designated as National Important Cultural Properties. Please visit the Kochi Prefectural Kochi Castle History Museum in front of Otemon Gate, which houses and exhibits many valuable materials inherited from the Yamauchi family, the lords of the Tosa(*), including national treasures and important cultural properties.
*Tosa is the former name of Kochi Prefecture.

You can immerse yourself in traditional Japanese culture by experiencing, touching, wearing, and creating authentic items. Various enjoyable programs are available!
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Tokushima Castle does not have any existing castle tower or other structures. However, it is now designated as a National Historic Site. The Tokushima Castle Museum, Tokushima Castle Omote Goten Garden, Rose Garden, and Flowing Pond have been developed, utilizing the restored Eagle Gate (Washi no Mon) and other heritage from the Edo period.
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Visitors can explore exhibits about the Tokushima clan and the Hachisuka clan. They can learn about changes in clan government, the lives of the feudal lords, the grandeur of the castle, the bustling castle town, and the adventures of the Awa Navy Base.
Tokushima Museum official website

The 12 existing castle towers are just the beginning. Be sure to explore the beautifully restored towers as well.

Kawashima Castle (Kawashima Park) see more
Hiwasa Castle see more

How was it? Beyond the 12 existing castle towers, Shikoku is home to many more, each with its own unique history and charm. This is your chance to not just visit, but fully experience the rich heritage of these incredible castles!
By train (JR Shikoku), you can visit 8 major castles while circling Shikoku! Click here for a model course.

Other recommended features is here
Special Feature: A summary of Shikoku’s vaunted craft products