The 2004 reconstruction project used donated logs from local Shikoku forests to maintain historical authenticity.
The castle features a rare 'tsukimi yagura' (moon-viewing turret) specifically designed for viewing the river landscape.
Engineers used traditional joinery techniques without modern metal nails for the majority of the wooden frame structure.
The castle grounds were once part of a larger fortification complex that included over 30 distinct watchtowers.
During the Edo period, the castle served as the administrative center for the 60,000-koku Ozu Domain.
Ozu Castle is one of the few Japanese castles reconstructed entirely from wood using traditional methods rather than concrete. The four-story keep was completed in 2004 based on extensive architectural research and photographs from the Meiji era. It stands on a hilltop overlooking the Hiji River, which flows through the city of Ozu. The interior showcases original beam structures and exposed timber frames. Visitors access the upper floors via steep, narrow wooden staircases characteristic of historical castle design. It functions as a historical museum with displays on the Kato clan, who ruled the domain during the Edo period. The site also features the preserved Fukkoro turret, which is designated as an Important Cultural Property.
From the riverbank on the opposite side of the Hiji River to capture the full silhouette of the keep.
Wear socks, as you will be required to remove your shoes before entering the wooden interior.
The stairs between floors are extremely steep; take your time ascending and descending.
Visit the nearby Garyu Sanso villa to see the architectural connection to the castle's scenic river environment.
Do not attempt to climb the steep wooden stairs if you have limited mobility, as there are no elevators.
Open year-round, typically closed during the year-end holidays.
Shoe removal is mandatory at the entrance; avoid touching historical displays or exposed wooden beams.
