# Ozu Castle

> A beautifully reconstructed castle built using traditional Edo-period wooden construction methods, overlooking the Hiji River in the charming town known as the Little Kyoto of Iyo.

- Prefecture: Ehime
- Type: Castle
- Address: Ozu, Ehime, Japan
- Admission: 550 yen
- Official site: https://ozucastle.jp/

Ozu Castle was rebuilt in 2004 using only traditional Edo-period construction methods, with no concrete and no modern materials. The four-story wooden keep was reconstructed from historical records, old photographs, and a detailed Meiji-era scale model. The castle sits on a hill overlooking the Hiji River in a town locals call the Little Kyoto of Iyo for its preserved Edo streetscapes. Two original corner turrets survived and are Important Cultural Properties. You can stay overnight in the keep, with a kaiseki dinner included and period-appropriate hospitality.

## FAQ

### Can I actually stay overnight in Ozu Castle?

Yes! Ozu Castle offers a unique castle stay experience where you sleep inside the authentic wooden keep. Includes kaiseki dinner, breakfast, private access, and period-appropriate hospitality. Costs around 660,000+ yen for two guests, a once-in-a-lifetime experience for castle enthusiasts.

### What makes Ozu Castle special compared to other Japanese castles?

Unlike concrete reconstructions, Ozu Castle was rebuilt in 2004 using only traditional Edo-period wooden construction methods, with no modern materials. The four-story keep was reconstructed from historical records and a Meiji-era scale model. Two original corner turrets survived and are Important Cultural Properties.

### Why is Ozu called the Little Kyoto of Iyo?

Ozu escaped wartime bombing, preserving its Edo-period streetscapes, traditional merchant houses, and samurai district along the scenic Hiji River. The combination of historical architecture, river views, and cormorant fishing (ukai) in summer creates an atmosphere reminiscent of old Kyoto.

### How do I get to Ozu Castle and what's the entry fee?

From JR Matsuyama Station, take the JR Yosan Line to Iyo-Ozu Station, about 35 minutes (¥970) by limited express, 60 minutes by local. The castle is a 25-minute walk or 5-minute taxi from the station. Adult entry ¥550, child ¥220; ¥880 combined ticket includes the Garyu Sanso garden. Open 9:00–17:00 daily (last entry 16:30).

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Source: Ozu Castle — Japan Voyage