2025 Ozu Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in May)

#AustraliaFlightEvent 🚊Iyo-Ozu Station Iyo-Ozu Station is a quiet train station near Matsuyama, and its old-fashioned appearance is charming. The old platform and the quiet scenery around it make you feel like you've traveled back in time. It's also a spot loved by photographers! It's a good place to stop by on the way to Uchiko or Shimonada. If you have enough time on the train, I recommend taking a walk around the nearby town. Ozu Castle, Garyusanso, and Bansenjo are also good places to visit nearby. If you want to feel the simple but warm atmosphere of the Japanese countryside, don't miss it!

#cityDAYTour #Shikoku #大SU #大岛城 #松山市 #爱hime Matsuyama in Shikoku is most famous for Dogo Onsen, but in fact, just over an hour's drive to the west, you can reach another small town with beautiful natural scenery - Iyo Continent, which is very suitable for a day trip to Matsuyama City. Morning: Depart from Matsuyama City JR Depart from Matsuyama City JR Station and take the train to Osu City. This journey takes about an hour and allows you to enjoy the beautiful scenery of Shikoku along the way. Matsuyama City, the capital of Ehime Prefecture, is famous for its hot springs and historical sites, making it an ideal starting point for a day trip. Dazhou City Dazhou City is a castle with a history of more than 400 years, located in the center of Dazhou City. The castle is famous for its well-preserved wooden structure and spectacular castle tower. Visitors can climb the castle tower to overlook the beautiful scenery of the entire Osu City and learn about the history of Japan's Warring States Period. Lunch: Osu-robata Aburaya Enjoy lunch at Osu-robata Aburaya, a traditional Japanese robatayaki restaurant. The restaurant provides fresh local ingredients to create delicious barbecue dishes. The atmosphere here is warm and gives people a strong sense of Japanese culture, making it a great choice for tasting local food. Fumoto Yokocho Fuhimoto Yokocho is an old street full of history, lined with traditional Japanese buildings and shops. There are many specialty shops and cafes here, where tourists can buy souvenirs, taste local snacks and feel the unique charm of Dazhou City. Wolong Villa Wolong Villa is an elegant Japanese garden located on the outskirts of Dazhou City. With beautiful ponds, stone bridges and tea rooms, it's a great place to relax. Visitors can stroll here, enjoy the changing natural scenery of the four seasons, and experience traditional Japanese garden art. Nakamura District Green Park Nakamura District Green Park is a family-friendly green park with spacious lawns and play equipment. This is a good place for local residents and tourists to relax and have fun. They can picnic, take a walk and enjoy the beauty of nature. Dusk: Return to Songshan At the end of the day's journey, take the train back to Songshan City.

When you visit Matsuyama, you often explore not only Matsuyama itself but also the nearby small towns. One of those towns is Ozu City, which I visited. Since it was a weekday in early October, there were hardly any people. It was a quiet and peaceful place. Perhaps because I had just visited Matsuyama Castle, I found this castle to be a bit smaller. However, the significance lies in the fact that this place appeared in 'Suzume's Locking Up'! On the way, I took photos just like in 'Suzume's Locking Up' and also took some on the way up to the castle. I was quite pleased with the photos I took on the way. 📍Location: Iyo-Ozu Station 📍How to get there: 1) Take the JR limited express train from Matsuyama Station and get off at Iyo-Ozu Station 2) Walk for 20-30 minutes (refer to Google Maps) 3) Take the Ozu Circular Bus (board in front of Iyo-Ozu Station) I walked there and took the Ozu Circular Bus on the way back. When you come down from Ozu Castle, there is a large supermarket, and the bus stop sign is across the street from the supermarket. That's the only bus stop near Ozu Castle. The bus may be off by about 5 minutes, but it usually arrives on time, so be sure to take the circular bus.

"Pokopen, Pokopen, who's poking me?" It's a playful phrase used when playing hide-and-seek or kick the can. [Details of Pokopen Yokocho/Omoide Souko] A place where the retro space of the 1950s spreads 📍 We will introduce this spot separately as "Pokopen Yokocho" and "Omoide Souko"! Don't worry, both are on the same premises. "Pokopen Yokocho" refers to the square outside Omoide Souko, where a Showa-era shopping street is opened every Sunday (April to November) 💡 Here, local shops will be selling Chinese noodles, croquettes, yakitori, and other restaurants, as well as shops selling antiques, toys, and miscellaneous goods, and a corner where you can experience old-fashioned games such as playing on stilts, bubbles, and bay tops! Sometimes there are live performances on stage 🎶 "Omoide Souko" is an alley lined with pharmacies, police boxes, barber shops, and miscellaneous goods stores, and a living room from the 1950s that you can actually go up to! This warehouse is completely filled with Showa era collections📺It's a collection I've never seen before, and as someone who's recently fallen in love with retro things and spaces, it was an exciting place✨☆Points to note: It seems that all of the many collections belonged to the owner of this place‼️And that's amazing‼️ ️It's exciting to look at😁 ◼︎Location690-1 Ozu, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture 795-0012◼︎Business hours・Pokopen Yokocho (Sunday event) April-November Every Sunday December-March Every third Sunday 10:00-15:30・Omoide Souko 9:30-16:30 (Entry until 16:00) *Basically no closing days except New Year's holidays◼︎PricesPokopen Yokocho (Sunday event) FreeOmoide Souko Adults 200 yen Children 100 yen The whole area is called "Little Kyoto of Iyo" because of the old townscape🕰Try strolling around the town🚶🚶♀️ #Sakura2024 #Japan's Great Views #Domestic Travel #Ehime Tourism

A tourist spot in Ozu City 🌿 Not only are the buildings beautiful, but the gardens are also beautiful, and the Hijikawa River flowing in front of it is also beautiful. It is a designated important cultural property of the country, and a place of historical value. It is a relaxing spot where time flows very slowly and peacefully. #supporttourism #Ehime #spectacularview #supporttourism#spectacularview

#springitinerary Garyu Sanso in Ozu is the kind of spot that feels like a well-kept secret. Tucked away by the river, this traditional villa and garden combo is all about calm energy and timeless beauty. The architecture is gorgeous, think wooden walkways, cozy tea rooms, and little details that make you feel like you’ve stepped into a Ghibli film. The garden is super peaceful, with mossy stones, flowing water, and perfect views of the river below. You can totally imagine a samurai or poet just hanging out here, sipping tea and writing deep thoughts. It’s not a huge place, but that’s part of its charm, you’re not rushing through crowds, just soaking in the stillness. It’s especially pretty in the early morning or late afternoon when the light gets all soft and golden. If you’re into quiet, off-the-radar gems, Garyu Sanso is pure magic.

#MayTravelSupportWouldn't it be great if there was an island in Japan where you could play with cats all day long? You can do that here in Aoshima. There are so many cats, they follow people around, and they go crazy just looking at food, so they're so cute. If you really like cats, you should definitely visit Aoshima.

#MayTravelSupportI went to Aoshima Island in Ehime Prefecture, Japan. This place is full of cats. It was a place where I spent the whole day healing by watching cats living comfortably in nature. There is nothing else here but cats, so this is a place that those who really love cats must visit.

#MayTravelSupport I visited a cat village a little bit away from Matsuyama. There are only two boats a day, so you have to go in the morning and leave late in the afternoon. There are so many cats that you can play with them all day long. If you like cats, Aoshima is a must-visit.

#MayTravelSupportI moved to Ozu City near Matsuyama. I took a tram and a train and traveled a very long way. Ozu City is close to Aoshima, where there is a cat village, so I stopped by briefly on my way to Aoshima. Have a fun trip by train!

'Gion Park' Gion Park is home to approximately 700 double cherry blossom trees, offering a stunning view from its elevated vantage point. During the "Sakura Festival" held annually in Ozu City from late March to mid-April, the park is adorned with vibrant pink hues. Located just a 5-minute walk from Kii Station, the park also features playground equipment, making it an easy and enjoyable spot to visit. ■ Opening Hours: 24 hours ■ Address: Hataiki Town, Ozu City ■ Admission: Free ■ Parking: Temporary parking available at the adjacent 'Gion Shrine'

"Flower Park Ozu" In order to deepen citizens' understanding of agriculture and greening and to provide opportunities to enjoy nature, construction work was carried out over two years from fiscal 1995 at a total cost of approximately 500 million yen, and the park opened on April 19, 1997. To date, many people from inside and outside the city have visited the park. In spring, many people visit to enjoy the beautiful sight of tulips and nemophila blooming. ■Opening hours: 24 hours ■Address: 1766-7 Nishi Ozu-ko, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture ■Fee: Free ■Parking: Free parking space available diagonally across from the flower fields #0 yen trip

#cherryblossom25 Tucked away in Hino City, Tokyo, Inariyama Park is a locals' best-kept secret. About 200 cherry trees cascade across rolling hills, creating natural waves of pink with stunning views of the Tama River and Mt. Fuji in the distance. - Best Viewing: Late March to early April - Cherry Varieties: Primarily Somei Yoshino, with wild yamazakura and shidarezakura

"Daishi City Wolong Mountain Villa? Let me tell you all about it! At first, I thought the name was related to Zhuge Liang, hence the name 'Wolong' 🤣 But this place is amazing! 👏 Located in the suburbs of Daishi City, it's quite remote, but it has a true hidden paradise vibe. The name of the villa is so majestic, and they say there's actually a mountain range that looks like a dragon lying down! 🐉 Once you step in, wow! Surrounded by mountains on all sides, the air is so fresh it feels like your lungs are smiling! 🌟 What can you do here? - 🏘️ Stay: There are small wooden villas with mountain views. Waking up to the sound of birds chirping in the morning is the definition of relaxation! - 🍴 Eat: Farm-style cuisine! Free-range chicken, mountain stream fish, and even the vegetables are homegrown—so fresh and sweet you'll be saying 'Wow!' with every bite. - 🤳 Play: Hiking trails, fishing ponds, and at night, you can enjoy a barbecue with some beers! The highlight is a glass observation deck—perfect for taking Instagram-worthy shots 📸, though looking down might make your legs go weak! Helpful tips 🔔 - Driving yourself is the most convenient option. Taxi drivers might complain about the distance and give you attitude 😅 - If you're visiting in summer, don't forget mosquito repellent—the mosquitoes here are seriously hungry! In summary, if you want to escape the concrete jungle, Wolong Mountain Villa is worth considering! (But avoid weekends when it's super crowded—weekday visits are the smart choice.) Just like today, we came when there were hardly any people, and it was truly refreshing👌 Anyone interested in forming a group to chill here? Highly recommended! 🤟🏿

Osukujo is an ancient city in Osu, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. However, after the Meiji Restoration, most of the buildings were demolished, leaving some stone walls and a few oars (defense towers). 🌟Wooden Tenshu Pavilion: In 2004, the Japanese used the traditional method, completely according to the ancient design, to rebuild the wooden castle, very Edo period feel! 🌟Existing ancient buildings: In addition to the castle tower, there are also Taisho oars (ie kitchen defense towers) and high railings, are important cultural properties of Japan, worth seeing! 🌟Beautiful scenery: The city is built next to the Huchuan River, the surrounding environment is beautiful, especially during the spring cherry blossom season and autumn autumn leaf season, great for photography! If you go to Shikoku or Ehime Prefecture, Osuku Castle is definitely a place with a sense of history and beautiful scenery. Friends who like ancient Japanese cities should not miss it!

#Spring0yentrip Garyu Sanso is a beautiful garden located in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, and is a place that has a calm atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is easily accessible from tourist spots in Ozu City, and is recommended for travelers who want to relax in a quiet environment. It is about 10 minutes by car from JR Ozu Station. You can arrive even faster by taxi. There is abundant nature around, and you can enjoy the scenery of the four seasons. The feature of Garyu Sanso is its vast garden. It is maintained as a Japanese garden, and the pond, paths, and well-maintained plants create a beautiful landscape. The beauty of the garden is especially prominent during the autumn leaves and cherry blossom season. Garyu Sanso is the perfect place for those who want to spend a quiet time in nature, and you can spend a comfortable time. It is a place where you can enjoy a relaxing time between sightseeing. We recommend that you check the price and other details in advance and make a reservation.

#Spring0yentrip Ozu Castle is a beautiful castle located in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, and is a historic castle built in the early Edo period. It is said to be one of the most beautiful castles in Japan with surviving castle towers, and its appearance is worth visiting. It is easily accessible within Ozu City, and is recommended as a tourist center. It is about a 20-minute walk from JR Ozu Station, or about 5 minutes by taxi from Ozu Station. It is within walking distance from the station, so you can visit it easily. If you take a taxi, you can arrive in a short time. The castle tower of Ozu Castle has been restored with wood, and the structure and decoration inside the castle have been preserved in a form close to that of the time. The exterior of the castle tower in particular is beautiful and perfect for photography. In addition, the historical townscape remains in the surrounding area, and you can stroll around while feeling the atmosphere of a castle town. The beautiful moat surrounding the castle and the stone walls are also highlights. There is also a museum inside Ozu Castle, where you can see historical materials and weapons related to the castle. It is a place that history fans can enjoy, as you can learn more about the history and culture of the domain. The castle tower offers a panoramic view of Ozu city and the surrounding nature, so be sure to enjoy the view from there. On a clear day, the view is spectacular. As it is a popular spot for tourists, visiting early in the morning is a good way to spend a quiet time. The museum inside the castle has a wide variety of exhibits, so it is worth taking your time to explore. Ozu Castle is a spot where you can enjoy the atmosphere of the existing castle tower and the historic castle town. The view from the tower and learning at the museum inside the castle are attractive points for tourists. It is a must-see spot to stop by when you visit Ozu city.

#DomesticTravelTactics Bansenso is a quiet accommodation in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture, where you can relax in a calm atmosphere surrounded by nature. It is perfect for travelers who want to spend a relaxing time, as you can enjoy a beautiful garden that blends in with the surrounding natural environment and the scenery of the four seasons. It is about 10 minutes by car from JR Ozu Station. You can arrive in a short time by taking a taxi from the station. Bansenso features a Japanese-style building, and you can enjoy a quiet time while looking at the garden from the rooms. Hot springs and meals are provided, and you can enjoy dishes made with fresh local ingredients. The menu is particularly attractive, incorporating seasonal dishes and local specialties. There is an open-air bath on the premises, where you can relax while feeling the surrounding nature. You can refresh your mind and body while soaking in the hot spring in a calm atmosphere. Bansenso is the perfect place for travelers looking for a quiet and calm environment, and you can experience an accommodation that blends into the surrounding nature. It is especially recommended for those who want to forget about everyday life and spend a relaxing time. Accommodation rates and plans vary depending on the season, so we recommend checking and making reservations in advance.

If you are planning a trip to Matsuyama, I highly recommend the nearby small town of Iyo-Ozu! Iyo-Ozu, which takes about 1 hour and 30 minutes by train from Matsuyama Station, is the setting for the anime Suzume no Bunkanjo, and is a beautiful travel destination that retains the charm of old Japan. 🏡 Garyu-sanso & Bansenso with a quaint charm One of the most impressive places in Iyo-Ozu is Garyu-sanso and Bansenso. This place, with its tranquil Japanese garden and traditional houses, makes you feel as if you have traveled back in time. In particular, Garyu-sanso has a beautiful view of the Ozu River. Bansenso also has a quaint yet elegant atmosphere, making it the perfect place to stay quietly and heal. A cute and sentimental ‘Suzume no Bunkanjo’ concept cafe A must-visit place for Suzume no Bunkanjo fans! There is a chair cafe in Iyo-Ozu that is inspired by the background of a movie. The entrance is filled with cute props, and the space that reminds you of a scene from a movie was really cute. The food and drinks were also delicious, so it was perfect for spending time leisurely. If you are an animation nerd, you will be able to enjoy a moment of bliss beyond compare! Ozu Castle I didn't have enough time to go up there myself, but Ozu Castle looked really magnificent and cool from afar. It still retains the atmosphere of a traditional Japanese castle, so I definitely want to go up there next time I visit! Travel Tip: Use Free Coupons! You can enjoy various tourist attractions in Iyo-Ozu more economically by using free coupons that you can receive at the Asiana Airport Tourist Information Center. If you are planning a trip near Matsuyama, be sure to add Iyo-Ozu to your list! ✔ Want a quiet suburban trip from Matsuyama? ✔ Want to enjoy a traditional Japanese atmosphere? ✔ Are you a fan of Suzume's Gate? Iyozu, I really recommend it!

📍Yamecha Ijuen Driving along the Hijikawa River from Ozu City towards Nagahama, the shop appears along the river just before Hataki Station. The owner, who is originally from Kyushu, was originally planning to open a store in Matsuyama, but decided to open a Yamecha shop here in Hataki, Ozu City, to help with the recovery of Ozu, which was hit by the 2017 Western Japan heavy rain disaster. It's a place with a great view of the Hijikawa River from a slightly elevated position. It's relaxing to watch the green mountains and the large flow of the Hijikawa River. #0yentravelFebruary2025

📍 Charcoal-grilled Fukase I went to a restaurant called "Fukase" where you can enjoy charcoal-grilled local chicken. It is located a little before the roadside station "Seiryu no Sato Hijikawa" on National Route 197 that passes through Hijikawa Town. The restaurant has a splendid old-style house-like exterior, a carefully designed garden, and a tasteful "Charcoal-grilled Fukase" sign that really stands out. This is the entrance to the restaurant, "Fukase Local Chicken Yaki." This is a restaurant with a particular attention to detail. Although it looks like an old-style house, it is a newly built restaurant built with this restaurant's concept in mind. This time I ordered a yakitori set meal. This set meal includes local chicken thigh meat seasoned with salt or soy sauce-based sauce, miso soup, rice, pickles, and sherbet. Since there were three of us, we ordered salt and soy sauce sauce to share. Please visit! #Free hotel stay

📍Inariyama Park This park has long been known as a famous spot for maples, where you can fully enjoy the vast nature surrounded by trees. The maples growing around Inariyama Park are said to have been brought back from Takao, Kyoto, by the feudal lord of the time when he was on a daimyo's alternate attendance trip, and planted in the precincts. There are about 3,000 maples, including an old maple tree that is about 200 years old, and in autumn the entire park is colored with magnificent autumn leaves. During the autumn foliage season, these maples paint the entire forest area bright red, creating a fiery crimson beauty. The best time to see the autumn leaves is usually from mid-November to late November, and many people from inside and outside the prefecture visit to see the spectacular view. #Free hotel stay

📍Mt. Fuji Park A park on Mt. Fuji, named after its shape which resembles Mt. Fuji. It is so famous for its azaleas that locals call it "Azalea Mountain." From late April to early May, the mountaintop is dyed pink with 63,000 azaleas. It is also designated as one of the 88 Ehime forest bathing spots, you can enjoy a stroll along the well-maintained promenade, and children can play freely at the "Chibikko Hiroba" (Little Kids Square), which has playground equipment such as roller slides. You can enjoy nature with your family throughout the year, which changes with the seasons. #Free hotel stay

📍Myoho-ji Temple A temple belonging to the Myoshin-ji school of the Rinzai sect, founded by the second lord of the Ozu domain, Kato Yasuoki, with Bankei Eitaku as its founder. The Nyoho-ji Buddha Hall is a rare structure that also functions as a Zen hall, with the Shaka Nyorai statue, the principal image of the temple, enshrined in the center of the building, forming the space for the Buddha Hall, and on both sides are tatami rooms for monks to practice. The Buddha Hall has also been designated an Important Cultural Property by the government as a cultural heritage site. #Free hotel stay

[Walking around Ozu Castle Town] 📍Ozu Shrine (photos 1, 2, 3) Located to the east of Ozu Castle, Ozu Shrine is a small shrine that is said to be the god of prosperous business, safety of the home, safe childbirth, and a satisfying catch. 📍NIPPONIA Hotel Ozu (photos 4, 5) About two and a half hours from Tokyo. The NIPPONIA HOTEL Ozu Castle Town is a decentralized hotel that combines nostalgia and modernity in the castle town of Ozu Castle in Ehime. 📍Garyu Brewery (photo 6) A brewery built in a red brick warehouse that remains from the Taisho era. In addition to the standard IPAs and pale ales, they also develop products that make use of local specialties, such as silk ales and mandarin ales. 📍yumehonoka (photos 7, 8, 9) Yumehonoka is a bakery and sweets shop located in the Garyu Brick Warehouse at 98-1 Ozu, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture. It's next to Garyu Brewing (@garyu_brewing). There are many attractive shops around Ozu Castle. Please enjoy a stroll and find your own favorite spot. #FreeHotelStay

📍Flower Park Ozu 🏷️1766-7 Nishi Ozu-ko, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, 795-0013 🚶♀️From Matsuyama Road Ozu IC, take R56, Ozu Road, Prefectural Route 234, and head towards the National Ozu Youth House for 6 minutes 🚗Free parking 🕐8:30-17:00 💰Free 📝 • Enjoy tulips, rapeseed flowers, pansies, and more • Great view from the observation deck • There is a beetle area where you can observe rhinoceros beetles • There is a forest area where you can enjoy forest bathing Please take a look! #FreeHotelStay

📍Ehime Prefecture Goro Ohashi South Riverbed Square Since 1995, the Hijikawa riverbed (under Maebashi in Goro and Hata, Ozu City) has been used, and with the cooperation of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport and Tourism Ozu River and National Highway Office and the Prefectural Ozu Agricultural High School, seasonal flowers have been planted and the area has been developed as a place of relaxation for citizens. It has now become a place where people from inside and outside Ozu City can enjoy a seasonal feature. The contrast between the red bridge and the yellow sunflowers is beautiful. Period: [Rape blossoms] February to late March [Sunflowers] Late July to early August [Cosmos] Mid-October to mid-November #0 yen trip January 2025

📍Inatsumi Healing Satoyama, Ehime Prefecture A flower spot where Japanese irises are in full bloom every year around mid-June. I saw it on Instagram last year and was curious about it, so I went to visit. It seems that it is in full bloom every year around mid-June. About 120 kinds of Japanese irises are planted, and they color the lush Satoyama colorfully with colors such as purple, white, and yellow. There are promenades around the area, making it perfect for a walk. Next to the iris garden, there is a field where you can enjoy the idyllic scenery. You can also hear the birds chirping pleasantly. #0 yen trip January 2025