To use this site, please disable the ad blocking feature and reload the page.
This website uses cookies to collect information about your visit for purposes such as showing you personalized ads and content, and analyzing our website traffic. By clicking “Accept all,” you will allow the use of these cookies.
Users accessing this site from EEA countries and UK are unable to view this site without your consent. We apologize for any inconvenience caused.
The Yomiuri Shimbun Ozu Castle is seen behind a sightseeing train in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture.
The Yomiuri Shimbun
14:13 JST, February 17, 2024
OZU, Ehime — A growing number of people are visiting Ozu Castle in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture due to its castle stay program, which allows visitors to stay overnight in the castle.
The four-story tower of Ozu Castle was restored in 2004 and began offering the overnight stay experience in July 2020, marking the first such experience in Japan. Despite its high price tag of ¥1.1 million for two people, the program has earned a good reputation for providing guests with an experience akin to living like a castle lord. Foreign tourists have also stayed at the castle.
The Yomiuri Shimbun A welcome ceremony for guests is held at Ozu Castle in November.
A ceremony to welcome guests as “lords of the castle” is held, with the guests dressed in armor and other costumes. Local groups also participate in the ceremony, performing the local performing art of Kagura — dancing to live music to worship Shinto deities — and demonstrating the use of firearms, among other performances.
