Ozu Castle

A symbol of the town on the bank of the Hiji River. The castle keep, which was once abandoned due to its aging, was completely restored thanks to efforts and donations of local citizens. Old photographs and an Edo period wooden model helped to carefully reproduce it, using original construction techniques and materials.

Garyu Sanso

A tea house complex, built over a decade by Kōuchi Torajiro, a local trading merchant of the Meiji era. It faces one of the most scenic spots along the Hiji River. Three magnificent pavillions, Garyu-in, Furo-an and Chishi-an, are wrapped by a subtle roji garden (tea house garden) exuding elegance. A world away from reality awaits your visit.

Ohanahan street

Named after the 1966 NHK morning drama “Ohanahan”, as the street became its main location. It retains the original Edo period outline, in which samurai residences (on the south) shared the street with merchant houses (on the north), faintly divided by a refreshing water canal.

Pokopen Yokocho

A retro-pop lovers’ paradise. Hosting a magnificent collection of post-war memorabilia and furniture, visitors are deeply immersed in Japan’s 50’s and 60’s atmosphere, radiating both merriment and nostalgia. Weekly events bring out old time flavours, in the form of Chinese soba, croquettes, yakitori and many others.

Ozu Red Brick Hall

Built as Ozu Commercial Bank in 1873, this western style building has been respectfully preserved and it can now be enjoyed while sipping locally sourced drinks in search of local crafts (Ozu washi -Japanese paper-, Tobe Ware -ceramics-, accessories, etc) perfect as memorable souvenirs.

Sukunahikona Shrine

A shrine dedicated to Sukunahikona, a small deity that accompanied big Okuninushi in the construction of the World, according to Japanese folk tale legends. Said to have discovered Dogo Onsen and healed in them, Sukunahikona is strongly related to homeopathy and pharmaceutical industries. The shrine hosts magnificent edifices (Sanroden) wrapped by lavish forests.

Nyohoji Temple

A Zen temple on the hillside of Mt.Tomisu designated as an Important Cultural Property. Celebrating its 350th anniversary in 2020, its Buddha Hall (butsuden) displays a soothing space in which meditation sessions are regularly conducted. Approaching it through the green carpeted visiting path (sandō) is a memorable experience.

1. The sounds of the trumpet shell (horagai) signal the commencement of the warlord welcoming reception.

2. The flag-waiving squadron awaits the arrival of the warlord. Guest are greeted by a strictly codified waving procedure.

3. Gunners and waivers, including officers, positioned to welcome the new lord arriving from the Yonago provinces.

4. The castle lord, Kato Sadayasu, enters the castle on horse. Guests are rewarded with a shadow warrior certificate, handed out by the lord himself.

5. Gunpowder squadron fires to commemorate and announce the arrival of the lord.

6. Castle retainers introduce to guests the outlines of the Ozu domain and the main features of the castle, with the aid of old maps.

7. Local traditional performing arts will welcome guests. Customization is possible. Choose between Yamatozaka Shime Kagura (rural noh performance) or Ukai (cormorant fishing).

8. A full course dinner utilizing carefully selected local ingredients is offered.

9. Enjoy the moon contemplation from the ‘Koran’ Turret, the way the Kato lords did.

10. Indulge in a bath at a tailored made bathhouse on the castle grounds, while enjoying a fully lit up Ozu castle.

11. Kato Sadayasu, the first castle retainer of the Kato clan, might have stayed in the castle keep during the first years of his rule.

12. On the following morning, transfer to the ‘Garyu Sanso’ a beautifully designed tea house on the verges of the Hiji River banks. All for yourselves!/p>

13. Breakfast is served at ‘Garyu In’, in a Kyōō style (the exclusive dinning cuisine and manners reserved to warlords in ancient Japan).