Ōzu Castle

Ōzu Castle, also known as Jizōgatake Castle, is a historic Japanese fortress located in Ōzu City within Ehime Prefecture. While defensive barricades on the strategic Jizōgatake mound overlooking the Hiji River date back to 1331, the elaborate compound recognized today was constructed between 1585 and 1617. The castle's design is heavily attributed to Tōdō Takatora, a renowned castle architect who served under major unifiers like Toyotomi Hideyoshi and Tokugawa Ieyasu. In 1617, the Katō clan assumed control of the Ōzu Domain, maintaining ownership for thirteen generations until the Meiji Restoration began in 1888. This long tenure established the castle as a central political and military hub for the region during the feudal era.

Following the Meiji Restoration, the structure suffered from severe neglect and exposure to the elements. By 1888, the main keep had deteriorated to the point of imminent collapse and was subsequently demolished. However, four surrounding turrets built during the late Edo period survived this decline and were designated as Important Cultural Properties by the Japanese government in 1957. A significant revival occurred in 2004 when local citizens and officials collaborated to reconstruct the main keep. Utilizing old photographs, maps, and traditional assembly techniques with natural materials, the project cost 1.6 billion yen and stands as the tallest timber structure erected since post-war building laws were enacted in 1950.

Today, Ōzu Castle serves as a vital cultural landmark and tourist attraction aimed at revitalizing the local economy. The faithful reconstruction allows visitors to experience authentic Edo-period architecture and craftsmanship that had nearly vanished. The site preserves both the modern reconstruction of the main keep and the original historic turrets, offering a unique glimpse into Japan's feudal history. Its presence highlights the community's dedication to preserving heritage while adapting historical sites for contemporary educational and economic purposes.