The small town of Uchiko is about 25 miles southwest of Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture. I took the train there as part of a relaxing day trip and enjoyed strolling around the hilly history-filled streets.
Uchiko is famous for its Kabuki Theatre (known as Uchiko-Za). The town also thrived as one of Japan's central producers of paper and wax during the Edo and Meiji periods. The remnants of the town's wax making past can be found in the lifelike wax figures that populate the city, as well as the souvenir candles that are on most "to-buy" lists.
Finally, Uchiko boasts wonderfully well preserved traditional Japanese residences (known as Machiya). Some of these homes are open to the public, but most remain closed and have been designated important national cultural properties.
Uchiko was a charming little day trip. I recommend a visit!
B.E.W.
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