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

#budgetairlines If you’re planning to explore Japan without breaking the bank, Jetstar Japan is a fantastic option. I recently flew from Narita to Matsuyama for around $50 round trip, thanks to one of their frequent sales. The flight itself took just 90 minutes, and everything from check-in to landing was smooth and on time. Jetstar often runs limited-time promotions, so it’s worth checking their website regularly if you’re flexible with your dates. Matsuyama is packed with sightseeing spots—from the famous Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, to the charming town of Ozu, just a short trip away. For such a low fare, this flight opened up a whole region to explore! Why I recommend Jetstar Japan for domestic travel: ・Incredible deals (I paid ~$50 round trip during a sale!) ・Short, comfortable flights between major cities ・Great way to access lesser-known areas like Ehime Prefecture 📍From Narita Airport (Tokyo) to Matsuyama Airport (Ehime Prefecture) #JetstarJapan #BudgetAirlines #DomesticTravelJapan #EhimeTrip #JapanOnABudget #DogoOnsen #HiddenJapan #TripcomCommunity #TravelSmart

#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

Uchiko -> Iyo-Ozu -> ??? Buying the walking pass through Klook is cheaper!!!!! 09:07 JR Matsuyama -> Uchiko Limited Express Train The weather wasn't too hot, so I walked up to Goshoji Temple. I was traveling alone, so taxis were a bit expensive, so I just walked. I recommend a taxi... 🥲 I was sweating profusely on the way up. Maybe it was because it was early in the morning, but there weren't many people, so I was able to explore comfortably. The walk up was tiring, so I took a break and enjoyed the scenery. When I used a Korean coupon to visit only the Kamihaga Residence, luckily, it was a good time for everyone to leave, so I managed to take a solo photo at the photo zone. 🥹 And Google gave me the wrong information... I took the wrong train, ended up going to Matsuyama, and then back to Iyo-Ozu. I only had an hour in Ozu, and didn't even realize it was closed on Mondays...^^... . I only saw the Sota Chair... See you next time, Sotakun..🥹 So, we had a quick bite at Kisa Bakery and then headed back. To a hidden sunset spot🌅 - Goshoji Temple ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (Take a taxi..🥹, may your wish come true📿) - Kamihaga Residence ⭐️⭐️⭐️ (The garden was the best part!!) - Kira Bakery ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (I bought a cheese tart and chestnut bread, and the chestnut bread was delicious!) #matsuyama #iyoozu #matsuyama #uchiko #walkingpass #japantravel #japanesesmallcitytravel

I was worried that there wouldn't be many tourist attractions, but Oz was great because the scenery itself was a great pleasure!

📍 Basic Information 🪨 Name: Shirataki Park (Shirataki Kōen) 📮 Location: Shirataki, Ōzu City, Ehime Prefecture ⏰ Visiting Hours: Open all day 🚗 Access: Public Transportation: About a 10-minute walk from JR Yosan Line Iyo-Shirataki Station By Car: About a 15-minute drive from Ōzu IC ✨ Highlights (Stunning Autumn Leaves and Waterfalls) Renowned as one of Ehime's most famous spots for autumn foliage, praised by poet Ujō Noguchi who described it as "Autumn Shirataki, the maple trees between trees, a tapestry of brocade draped over the mountains." It has also been selected as one of Japan's Top 100 Autumn Foliage Spots. Contrast of Autumn Leaves and Waterfalls: Every year from mid to late November, the maple trees turn vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a stunning contrast between the brocade of autumn leaves and the silvery cascade of the waterfall (the white spray of the female waterfall).

📍 Basic Information 🏝 Name: Kashidani Rice Terraces 📮 Location: Near 2109 Kaisengawa-Ko, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture ⏰ Best Visiting Season: May to September 🚗 Parking: Parking available (but please note that roads are narrow). --- ✨ Attractions A total of 257 terraced rice fields, with an average gradient of approximately 20%, curve across the bowl-shaped slope. Kashidani Rice Terraces has been certified as a "Connecting Rice Terrace Heritage" by the Ministry of Agriculture, Forestry and Fisheries, and is attracting attention as a model for rice terrace preservation and satoyama conservation. The area has introduced a rice terrace owner system and a trust system. Participants can participate in rice terrace conservation through rice planting and harvesting experiences, and receive special benefits such as harvested rice and vegetables. The scenery changes with the seasons, from the flooding of the fields in spring, the golden age of rice ears in autumn, to the arrival of the chestnut tiger butterflies. #Let's travel with Pochi activities

The red torii of Ōzu Shrine stands like a gleaming jewel amidst lush greenery, beckoning me to explore. Stepping into this sacred space, I feel enveloped by a tranquil force, as if all my worries have drifted away like distant clouds. Under the torii, light and shadow intertwine, and a gentle breeze carries a refreshing scent. Each step feels like entering a painting, with the surrounding scenery captivating my senses. The shrine's environment is serene, with only the occasional chirping of birds, as if providing a melody for my peaceful journey.

From October to November each year, Wolong Villa, located on the banks of the Higokawa River in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, welcomes its most poetic season. At this time, the maple and ginkgo trees surrounding the villa are dyed in rich red and yellow hues, complementing the elegant tea house architecture, as if stepping into a serene Edo-period landscape painting. Buildings such as Furoan and Wolong-in are cleverly integrated into the natural terrain, with the river visible just outside the windows, where autumn leaves are reflected on the water, creating a dreamlike scene. In the early morning, the valley is often shrouded in mist, adding a layer of mystery to the entire villa. Strolling along the stone paths, listening to the babbling river and the sound of falling leaves, one forgets the hustle and bustle of the world. This is also a perfect time to enjoy tea; sitting quietly in the tea house, feeling the aroma of wood and the essence of autumn in the air, it is a healing journey for both body and mind.

📅 Itinerary Day 1: After arriving in the morning, pick up a free coupon at the information desk and take the shuttle bus to the hotel (Comfort Hotel Matsuyama). After leaving your luggage at the hotel, head to Okaido for a meal at Taimeshi (Motoyama) and a bus tour of the surrounding area. After a bus tour from 12:00 PM to 7:00 PM, enjoy dinner at the Okaido shopping district (Yakiniku Hiyoshi). Then, shop at Don Quijote and a convenience store before returning to your accommodation. Day 2: Due to the intense schedule on Day 1, we woke up around 10:00 AM. We left the hotel around 11:00 AM and headed back to Okaido for lunch (highly recommended at Koichi). After a leisurely two-hour drive to Matsuyama Castle, we headed to Dogo Onsen to recover. After a soak in the hot springs, we had udon for dinner (Tsuruchan) right in front of the annex, Asukanoyu. We then returned to Okaido, where we had a variety of snacks and bought some souvenirs at Don Quijote before heading back. Day 3: Since my flight was in the morning, I didn't have much to do, so I just took the shuttle to the airport and headed back to Korea. It was a really short and intense trip, but I had no choice due to my schedule. I think it's a city I'd like to visit again at a leisurely pace. 🍴 Restaurant Recommendations I highly recommend Koichi Main Branch and Yakiniku Hiyoshi. 📌 Useful Tips There's no need to rush to the airport when returning. I just checked in according to the shuttle. It wasn't 3 hours before like in Korea, but around 1 hour and 50 minutes before.

On my recent trip to Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, I stopped by the newly opened Cafe Lelut (カフェ・レル). Opened in May 2024, it's a neighborhood cafe with a simple yet warm atmosphere. It's about a five-minute walk from Iyo-Ozu Station, making it easily accessible. The cozy yet stylish exterior of the cafe made me excited even before I stepped inside. --- 🕐 Business Hours & Information Business Hours Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday, Sunday → 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM (Lunch 11:00 AM -, Cafe Time 2:00 PM -) Closed: Mondays, Fridays Reservations Available Payment: Cash Only (Cards and Electronic Payments Not Accepted) Parking: About 6 spaces available in front and back of the store (Space may be a bit limited) --- 🍴 What I Tried When I visited, I ordered the daily lunch set. The main dish of the day was the mixed fries, which had a crispy texture and a light flavor that were freshly fried and very delicious. The side dishes were carefully prepared and not overly seasoned, making them a satisfying meal. The soup was a bit small, which was a shame, but overall, it was a satisfying and satisfying meal. --- 🌿 Atmosphere & Reviews The restaurant has a quiet and comfortable atmosphere, making it a great place to enjoy a casual meal, whether you're alone or with friends. If you sit by the window, you can enjoy your coffee leisurely without realizing the passage of time. However, parking is limited, so be careful if you drive. If possible, we recommend walking or taking public transportation. -- #EmotionalCafe

📍 Location: 1048-3 Higashi-Ozu, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, 795-0064 🕛 Business Hours: Please check before visiting (Business hours and holidays may vary) ✨ Features: A beloved Western restaurant among locals. A wide selection of dishes, from omelet rice, spaghetti, and curry to pizza, salads, and even a kids' menu. Rich meat sauces and hamburger steaks are popular, and there are plenty of single-plate and set meals available. Enjoy a relaxing meal with family and friends in a relaxed atmosphere. 💬 Comments: "When in doubt, go for classic Western food! 🍝🍛 Enjoy a happy lunch at Bistro Sun Marché." #SummerCampaign

📍 Location: Sawai Seika Co., Ltd. (1011-22 Sugata-ko, Sugata-cho, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture) 🕛 Business Hours: Varies by store, so be sure to check before visiting (Summer-only shaved ice available) ✨ Features: This long-established fruit and vegetable shop, specializing in seasonal local vegetables and fruits, offers summer-only shaved ice in luxurious containers, featuring whole fruit! With over 15 varieties, including melon, watermelon, and Setouchi lemon, you'll be thrilled at first sight with this photogenic dessert experience. They also pay close attention to maintaining the freshness of the fruit. Both the appearance and taste will exceed your expectations. 💬 Comments: "The shaved ice, so full of fruit flavor, is so authentic I was impressed! 🍈✨ It already looks photogenic from the storefront! Perfect for cooling down after a stroll around Ozu." #SummerCampaign

📍 Location: Koji and Cafe Oshare Lecan, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture 🕛 Business Hours: Varies (check before visiting) ✨ Features: This cafe, featuring the striking character "koji" (malted rice), has a warm, craft-inspired atmosphere. Enjoy fragrant coffee and sweets in a relaxing atmosphere, with displays of dried flowers and hand-drawn boards adding a touch of color. Stop by during your stroll around the castle town for a moment that will lighten your spirit and your steps. 💬 Comment: "A small, relaxing spot wrapped in the warmth of handcrafted items. ☕🌾 Perfect for a break from exploring Ozu." #SummerCampaign

I always thought there was only one Cat Island in Japan, but it turns out that there are Cat Islands all over Japan~🐈 Today, let me introduce you to three of them worth visiting! P.S. The cats in Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture, will disappear soon because the cats in Aoshima, Ehime Prefecture, will disappear soon, so you can check it out as soon as possible 1. Tashiro Island (Miyagi Prefecture) 🔹The number of cats accounts for 75% of the total, far exceeding the residents, and the "dog ban" continues for a hundred years 🔹If you want to see the cat quickly, you can go directly to the large southern village located in Rendoutian Port 🔹There is a cat shrine here, dedicated to cats who died due to falling rocks. Island residents believe that cats can bring good luck 🔹Manga Island, located in an area opposite Rendaida Village, has many cat-themed inns mode of transportation 🔹[Sendai Station] Take JR to [Ishimaki Station], walk to [Kenchijima Line Ferry Terminal], take a boat to [Intoda Port] 🔹3 boats per day, it is recommended to take the 09:00 am boat Precautions 🔹Islanders regularly provide food, tourists do not feed at will 🔹Inns at Comic Island need to be booked in advance 🔹Remember to bring mosquito repellent, mosquitoes on the island are very poisonous 2. Sayashima (Kagawa Prefecture) 🔹The cats here are good at jumping between the breakwaters, which is an excellent subject for dynamic photography 🔹The cats on the island are not afraid of birth, you can prepare to order cat food to feed the cats 🔹 There is an inn converted from an abandoned school, retaining the blackboard message wall and sea view windows, full of retro atmosphere 🔹There are many cats near the port, you can go for a walk nearby mode of transportation 🔹From [Takamatsu Station], take the JR Yuzan Line to [Dodozu Station], walk to [Dodozu Port], transfer to Sanyo Steamboat, it is recommended to disembark at [Honura Port] 🔹 2 boats per day, it is recommended to take the 09:00 am boat Precautions 🔹There are not many homestays on the island, so it is recommended to plan a trip of no more than one day 🔹The public toilet on the island may be occupied by cats, so use the toilet as soon as possible 🔹 There are very few shops on the island, it is recommended to bring enough water and food 3. Qingdao (Ehime Prefecture) 🔹The number of cats on the island is 6 times that of the residents. There is no noise, only the sound of waves and cat calls intertwined 🔹Cats inhabit abandoned houses or alleys, presenting a rustic ecology that has not been commercialized 🔹A sanctuary for photography enthusiasts, cats curling up and walking everywhere, capturing natural interactive scenes 🔹 Feeding is allowed here, and there are many cats mode of transportation 🔹 Take a boat from [Changbin Port] to [Qingdao Port], only 2 boats per day, be sure to check the timetable in advance Precautions 🔹 Here cats need to feed, so they will be more entangled 🔹There are very few boats, so be sure to plan your itinerary first 🔹The island is less commercialized, there are very few shops, you must bring enough water and food When you go to Cat Island, you must remember to love animals and protect the environment! 🌳 If you still want to know what to do in Japan, check out the [Local Guide] on the trip.com app #Japan #Japan Attractions #Japan's Wonderful Scenery #Japan Travel Guide #Cat Island

This time, I'd like to introduce Aoshima in Ehime Prefecture, commonly known as "Ehime's Cat Island" 🐱 ▶︎You can get there from "Nagahama Port". ▶︎There are only two flights per day. To make sure that no one is unable to return from Aoshima, the second flight to Aoshima can only accommodate the same number of passengers as the first. In other words, if the first flight reaches capacity, you will not be able to sightsee on the second flight... If you go on the first flight and return on the second flight, your stay will be about 8 hours. There are no notable facilities other than playing with the cats, but I was able to relax and enjoy my time there. (I also made friends with other tourists) 🐱Access to Nagahama Port🐱 ▶︎About an hour by car west from Matsuyama, the prefectural capital🚗 ▶︎By train, it takes about an hour on the JR Yosan Line from Matsuyama Station to Iyonagahama Station🚃It's a few minutes walk from there🚶♂️ ⚠️Please note that there are only trains every 1-2 hours ▶︎Address: Nagahama Port Parking Lot, 1030-16 Nagahama, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture #Cat Island #Aoshima #Cat Island #Ehime Trip #Ehime Tourism #Shikoku Trip #Shikoku Tourism #Absolutely Free Trip

Having traveled from Hakodate to Kumamoto before, I've stayed at many places across Japan. This hotel revitalizes historic buildings along ancient streets into stylish yet comfortable guest rooms. Each room carries its own legacy - some were originally sake cellars, others luxurious merchant residences. Learning about each building's history and imagining life in those eras is part of Japan's unique lodging charm. This visit took me to Ozu, Ehime's ancient capital, where stone-paved streets beneath Ozu Castle resonate with timeless atmosphere. The property features 26 traditional Japanese buildings - castle-view dining halls, courtyards, inns, and even a theme park recreating an old townscape, creating an incredible Japanese cultural wonderland. I stayed in [Room YUKI802], a renovated residence originally belonging to Umajiro Imaoka, founder of Imaoka Silk Mill who supported Ozu's modern industries. The second-floor windows overlook a garden with a grand plum tree. The room preserves period charm through decorative alcoves, built-in cabinets, cocoon-shaped lamps, and silk scrolls showcasing Ozu's textile heritage - all blending historical authenticity with breathtaking design. NIPPONIA HOTEL Ozu Castle Town • Unique Experience: Japan's largest decentralized hotel complex with 26 buildings and 31 rooms, all converted from historic structures. Guests enjoy a "one-night castle lord" stay, immersed in Edo-period ambiance from centuries ago. • Room Features: Windows, tatami floors, earthen entryways, and traditional furnishings showcase local history, while modern amenities ensure comfortable stays amidst preserved architectural heritage.

#AbsolutelyFreeTrip "Ozu Castle" in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, features a beautiful castle tower that was restored in 2004 with wood. It has been faithfully reproduced to its appearance in the Edo period, and it feels like you've wandered into the setting of a historical drama✨ When you actually visit, the inside of the castle tower, with its scent of wood, is very refreshing, and you'll feel like the castle lord as you climb the stairs. From the top floor, you can see the Hijikawa River and the castle town, and I was impressed by the spectacular view that combines nature and history🌄 It is about a 25-minute walk from JR "Iyo-Ozu Station" or about a 10-minute taxi ride. You can also enjoy a stroll around the castle town as a set, so it is recommended to visit with plenty of time🚶♀️ The key to success is to get tourist information in advance at "Ozu Machi no Eki Asamoya"! They will also introduce you to nearby gourmet and experience spots, making your trip even more fulfilling🍵 Ozu Castle, with its quiet and calm atmosphere, is perfect for solo travelers and couples. You can spend a spiritually enriching time soothed by history and nature💕 #Domestic travel #Couple travel #Solo travel #Absolutely free travel #Ozu Castle #Ehime tourism #Castle travel #History romance

Grand opening of private lodging in June A rental lodging that was carefully renovated from a townhouse built in the Edo period and has a history of about 200 years🌿 Its value is so great that it is even featured in the Ozu City Museum It is a precious space that combines architectural beauty and cultural significance Even excluding the open-air bath, it is a spacious 101m2 structure with two bedrooms, a Western-style room and a Japanese-style room, and can accommodate up to 6 people, making it ideal for group trips🧳 Amid the profound history and sophisticated comfort, we spent a time surrounded by tranquility and healing while strolling through the castle town of Ozu🙂↔️✨ It was as if we had traveled back in time, and it has become one of the inns we definitely want to visit again🌿 ------------------------ 🗝️Ozu Nodasho Ryokan "Kondaya" 📍Noda, Hirano-cho, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture 3266-1 🚙1 hour drive from Matsuyama Airport 💰¥100,000/night ------------------------ #EhimeTrip#OzuCity#Kondaya#Ryokan#ehime #HotelReview

Ozu City (大洲市, Ōzu) is a castle town with a strong traditional feel located in the Nayo region of western Ehime Prefecture, Shikoku, Japan. Ozu City in Ehime Prefecture is an attractive tourist destination that lives up to its reputation as a “little Kyoto,” with well-preserved castle walls, old streets, and traditional events. In particular, it is a place where you can deeply experience Japanese traditional culture and history through things like staying in a castle or experiencing Ukai.

The cafe "Tokotoko" is located in the calm streets of Ozu City. The warm wooden interior is a relaxing space. Their handmade cakes, made with carefully selected ingredients, such as tarts made with seasonal fruits and moist cheesecake, are popular. They go perfectly with coffee and are perfect for a morning or afternoon break. Natural light pours in through the windows, and the quiet atmosphere of the cafe is perfect for reading or chatting with friends. There is a parking lot, so it is easy to access and you can easily stop by between sightseeing. When you are sightseeing in Ozu, be sure to enjoy a relaxing sweet time at "Tokotoko". #OzuCafe #HandmadeCake #Tokotoko #EhimeCafe #OzuTourism #EnjoyJapan

"Saoya" in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture is a popular restaurant loved by locals for its rich menu centered on teppanyaki dishes and its hearty "jumbo meal". The restaurant has a relaxed atmosphere, with counter seats and table seats, making it a spacious space that is easy to use whether you are alone or in a group. The "jumbo meal" is especially recommended. This dish, served on a teppan, is hot rice topped with plenty of ingredients, which will whet your appetite. There is also a wide selection of teppanyaki dishes on the menu, including steak and yakisoba, all of which are exquisite. Each dish, made with fresh ingredients and featuring the skill of a craftsman, will captivate anyone who diners. If you visit Ozu, be sure to enjoy the charms of teppanyaki at "Saoya". #EnjoyJapan

Nestled in a quiet alley of Iyo-Nagahama in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, "Sabu" is a small eatery beloved by locals. Despite the limited number of dining options in the area, it operates from lunchtime and is praised for offering delicious meals at an affordable price. The signature dish, Napolitan, is prepared in the classic coffee shop style. The sweet and tangy ketchup-based sauce coats the chewy thick noodles, delivering a nostalgic flavor. The dish is generously topped with crispy onions, bell peppers, and sausages, making it a hearty and satisfying meal. The interior exudes a cozy, homey atmosphere, featuring both counter and table seating, making it a welcoming spot even for solo diners. The warm hospitality and the presence of many regular local patrons add to its charm. Conveniently located within walking distance from Iyo-Nagahama Station, it’s an ideal stop during sightseeing or a leisurely stroll. If you’re craving a taste of nostalgic Napolitan, be sure to visit "Sabu."

#cityplaybook If you’re craving a quiet escape filled with history, nature, and scenic views, Ōzu in Ehime Prefecture is a hidden gem worth discovering. With its beautifully reconstructed castle and peaceful shrine walkways, the town offers a perfect blend of elegance and calm. I started my visit at Ōzu Castle, perched above the town. The castle itself is gorgeous—classic wooden architecture with a commanding view over the river and rooftops. Standing at the top, the view made me pause. It’s one of those spots that makes you take a deep breath and just enjoy the moment. From there, I made my way to Ōzu Shrine. Quiet, surrounded by nature, and full of gentle energy. The stone steps leading up are a bit of a climb, but totally worth it—the view from halfway up is a postcard in real life. Why I recommend Ōzu: ・It’s peaceful, scenic, and full of historical charm without the crowds ・The combination of castle views and shrine serenity makes for a memorable half-day trip 📍Ōzu City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan #OzuCastle #EhimeTravel #JapanCastles #HiddenJapan #ShrineWalks #ScenicViews #LocalJapan #QuietEscape #OzuShrine #CityGuide

#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.