Situated on the banks of the beautiful Hiji River, with its many twists and turns, amid a classic Japanese riverside landscape, is Ozu Castle. Originally built at the end of the Kamakura period (1185-1333), numerous warlords developed the castle and surrounding town until the Edo period (1603-1868).

Many of the buildings, including the castle tower, were demolished during the Meiji period (1868-1912), but the wooden castle tower was restored in 2004 thanks to the enthusiasm of local residents.

The castle tower stands out with its modern contrast of black and white, as well as its magnificent interior structure and wooden framework. Visitors will be struck by the dynamic beauty of Japanese architecture and craftsmanship on display through the assembled thick timbers.

A relaxing stroll through the castle, where four turrets built in the Edo period still exist, will take you on a trip through Japanese history.

Ozu Castle offers visitors a unique opportunity to have a “castle experience.” Ozu Castle Stay is an accommodation plan that allows guests to rent the entire castle and enjoy Japanese cuisine that puts a modern twist on authentic dishes that would have been served to castle guests during the Edo period.

In addition, a public demonstration of Edo-period gun firing techniques is held once a month by a firearm squad. Real matchlock rifles are used, creating astonishingly powerful sounds that reverberate through each person.

On Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays, when the sightseeing train Iyonada Monogatari passes the railroad bridge over the Hiji River, visitors to Ozu Castle can welcome the train by waving the banners of warlords in the style of the Warring States period.

Anyone can participate for free, so why not enjoy taking part in the festive atmosphere?