Ōzu Castle

Welcome to Ōzu Castle, an architectural marvel that serves as a testament to the resilience and meticulous craftsmanship of the Japanese people. As we stand here on this hilltop, known historically as Jizogatake, I want you to…

We now stand before the centerpiece of the fortress, the Grand Keep, or Tenshu. This four-story, four-layered tower is a triumph of traditional Japanese architecture. …

While the main keep is a modern reconstruction, the castle grounds are home to four original turrets, or Yagura, that managed to survive the fires of time and the modernization of the Meiji era. We are currently approaching the…

Let us walk toward the edge of the castle grounds where the hill drops off toward the Hijikawa River. This river is the lifeblood of Ōzu and was the primary reason for the castle's location. …

As we move into the Inner Bailey, or Honmaru, take a close look at the massive stone foundations that support the castle structures. These walls, known as Ishigaki, are a marvel of engineering. …

As we begin to descend from the castle toward the town, we enter a district that is currently experiencing a significant restoration boom. The residents of Ōzu have realized the immense value of their architectural heritage, and…

Our final stop is the Garyu Sanso Villa, a masterpiece of sukiya-style architecture located on the edge of a cliff overlooking the Hijikawa River. This villa was the private residence of a successful merchant who made his fortune…

As our tour of Ōzu Castle and its surrounding town comes to an end, I hope you carry with you a deeper understanding of the profound connection between this community and its history. This is a place where the past is not merely…