Uwajima is located in southwestern Ehime Prefecture, facing the wide rias coastline and remote islands, Uwa Bay on the Seto Inland Sea to the east, and with the other three sides surrounded by mountains.

Although it is actually located to the south-southeast of Yawatahama, as it is the terminus of the limited express train on the JR Shikoku Yosan Line, people other than local residents tend to think that it is the westernmost city in Ehime Prefecture.

The Saionji survived by the fluid loyalties and fierce resistance, but were eventually overcome by Chōsokabe Motochika, who was in turn overthrown by the forces of Toyotomi Hideyoshi.

When ordered to send troops to the invasion of Korea in 1592, he cut down large trees in shrines and temples throughout his domain to construct ships.

The center of the city was largely destroyed by bombing during World War II in 1945; however, post-war reconstruction was rapid.

Uwajima has a mayor-council form of government with a directly elected mayor and a unicameral city council of 24 members.

In terms of national politics, Uwajima is part of Ehime 3rd district of the lower house of the Diet of Japan.

Commercial fishing, taking advantage of the ria coastline, aquaculture and cultured pearls is the mainstay of the local economy.