Imabari Castle

One of Japan's few coastal castles, Imabari Castle was built in 1604 by the master castle architect Todo Takatora, who designed its moat to fill with seawater from the Seto Inland Sea. The original stone walls and triple moat system survive intact, while the reconstructed keep houses exhibits on the castle's history and local culture. Climb to the top floor for sweeping views over the Kurushima Strait and the bridges of the Shimanami Kaido. It pairs naturally with a cycling trip across the island chain.