About the Port
Uwajima sits on a deep, sheltered bay along Shikoku's southwest coast, a region long shaped by pearl cultivation and fishing. The waterfront reflects these traditions, from working harbors to rafts anchored offshore where pearl oysters are raised. Rising above the town, Uwajima Castle is one of Japan's original surviving castles, its compact wooden keep offering views over the rooftops to the water beyond, and it remains within easy reach on foot from the port area.
Inland, the landscape shifts quickly from coast to countryside, with forested mountains, river gorges, and small farming villages that see relatively few visitors. This contrast between maritime bay and quiet rural interior gives Uwajima a layered character, appealing to travelers curious about traditional pearl farming as well as those drawn to a slower, more contemplative side of Shikoku.
Pavlus Recommendations
How our planners would spend a day in Uwajima.
Climb Uwajima Castle
One of Japan's twelve original castle keeps sits atop a modest hill a short walk from the harbor; the climb takes under 20 minutes and rewards with views over rooftops to the bay.
Learn Pearl Cultivation
Visit a small pearl museum near the port to see how oysters are seeded and harvested, and browse cultured pearls sourced from the rafts visible offshore.
Stroll Tenshaen Garden
This landscaped feudal-era garden, built by a former Uwajima lord, offers quiet paths, koi ponds, and seasonal plantings just a few minutes from the castle grounds.
Cruise Lines That Call Here
Cruises That Visit Uwajima
| Departs | Cruise Line | Ship | Itinerary | Nights | From |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sep 7, 2026 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $22,967 | |
| Sep 19, 2026 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $26,288 | |
| May 9, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Soleal | 8 | $12,080 | |
| May 23, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $22,000 | |
| Jun 4, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $17,000 | |
| Jun 16, 2027 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $17,000 | |
| Oct 7, 2027 | Ponant Cruises | Le Soleal | 8 | $8,250 | |
| Feb 26, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Jacques Cartier | 14 | $13,220 | |
| Mar 17, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Soleal | 8 | $8,250 | |
| Mar 30, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 20 | $19,599 | |
| Apr 9, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 10 | $9,523 | |
| Apr 19, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 10 | $9,523 | |
| May 4, 2028 | Ponant Cruises | Le Soleal | 8 | $8,250 | |
| May 9, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 20 | $19,599 | |
| May 19, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 10 | $9,523 | |
| May 22, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $20,000 | |
| May 29, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 24 | $21,896 | |
| May 29, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 10 | $9,523 | |
| Jun 3, 2028 | Lindblad Expeditions | NG Resolution | 15 | $20,000 | |
| Jun 8, 2028 | Emerald Yachts | Emerald Xara | 14 | $12,021 |
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