Ōzu Castle (大洲城)

Flow of the course

About this spot

A symbol of Ōzu, standing on a gentle hill called Jizō-ga-take on the banks of the Hijii River. The four-story, four-tiered keep was faithfully reconstructed in wood using traditional construction techniques based on preserved wooden joint models and historical photographs, making it a rare and precious example nationwide. Inside, you can view up close the intricately assembled beams and pillars, and climbing the steep stairs while enveloped in the fragrance of wood to the top floor rewards you with a panoramic view of the serpentine Hijii River, the castle town, and the mountains surrounding the Ōzu basin. The Kitchen Tower (台所櫓) and Kōran Tower (高欄櫓) flanking the keep are original structures remaining from the feudal period and are designated Important Cultural Properties. Unlike reinforced concrete reconstructed keeps, this wooden structure offers a warmth and grandeur unique to timber construction.

Tips

A tourist parking lot sits at the foot of Castle Mountain, with a 5-minute uphill walk to the keep. Purchasing a combined ticket with Garyū Sanso at the keep's reception desk offers savings. The stairs inside the keep are quite steep, so comfortable clothing and sneakers are recommended.

Best time to visit

Allow approximately 1 hour 20 minutes. Early morning visits mean fewer crowds and a leisurely enjoyment of the keep and Hijii River views in good lighting.

Access & map

〒795-0012 Ehime Prefecture, Ōzu City, Ōzu 903