Kawanoe Castle

Reconstructed hilltop fortress in Shikokuchuo, Ehime Prefecture, whose dramatic seaside location overlooking the Seto Inland Sea sets it apart from most Japanese castles. Although the current structure is a 1984 reconstruction, the original castle played a strategic role controlling maritime traffic through the strait between Shikoku and Honshu, and its history stretches back to the 14th century through various feudal conflicts. The compact castle keep houses a small museum with local historical artifacts, armor displays, and exhibits on the region's traditional papermaking industry. The real draw is the panoramic view from the top floor, where you can see the Seto Ohashi Bridge, the Shikoku mountains, and cargo ships navigating the narrow strait below.