Date Museum
The Date Museum (伊達博物館, Date Hakubutsukan) commemorates the Date Clan, who ruled over Uwajima for more than 250 years during the Edo Period (1603-1867). The first Date lord of Uwajima was Date Hidemune, who hailed from the main branch of the family based in Sendai. Uwajima grew and prospered under the rule of generations of lords from the Date Clan.
The museum exhibits many artifacts and belongings of the Date family, such as weapons, scroll paintings, family crests, writings and daily-used items. It showcases a sizable collection of beautiful folding screens (byobu) that bear precious paintings. Maps depicting Uwajima in the past enable visitors to see how the castle town has been reshaped over the years. The whole are has been dramatically changed over time. It is interesting to see just how much.
A great place to visit for anyone interested in artifacts of Japan.
Access
Date Museum is located close to Tenshaen Garden and it is a 20-30 minute walk from Uwajima Station. Alternatively, Uwajima Bus operates hourly buses between the station and Tenshaen-mae bus stop (天赦園前, 10 minutes, 150 yen one way), which is situated a few steps from the museum.
Hours & Fees
Hours
9:00 to 17:00 (entry until 16:30)
Closed
Mondays (or following day if Monday is a national holiday), December 29 to January 3
Admission
500 yen
English
Moderate (good English pamphlet available)
