Garyu Sanso (臥龍山荘), also known as “The Villa of the Reclining Dragon,” is a historic villa located in the city of Ozu, Ehime Prefecture, Japan. Built in the Meiji era (1868-1912), it was the villa of a local businessman, Torajiro Kochi, who made his fortune in the wax trade.
The villa was constructed on a hillside overlooking the Hiji River and features traditional Japanese architecture and design, incorporating elements of sukiya-zukuri style. The main building, called Garyu-in (臥龍院), is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan and includes a large tatami room, a Noh theater, and several other rooms with intricate woodwork and sliding doors. Furo-an (不老庵), a bathhouse with a unique design, is also designated as an Important Cultural Property. The villa also includes a Japanese garden with a pond, walking paths, and a tea house called Chishi-an (知止庵).
The name “Garyu Sanso” is said to refer to the shape of the nearby mountains, which resemble a reclining dragon. The villa is considered one of the best examples of traditional Japanese architecture and design in the region and is a popular tourist attraction.
Visitors can tour the villa and its gardens, experiencing the beauty and tranquility of the architecture and natural surroundings. They can also participate in traditional Japanese tea ceremonies in the Chishi-an tea house on certain days. The villa is especially beautiful during the cherry blossom season in the spring and the autumn foliage season in the fall.
Getting there
By Train and Bus
- From JR Matsuyama Station, take a limited express on the Yosan Line to Iyo-Ozu Station (about 35 minutes)
- From Iyo-Ozu Station, use one of the following options:
- Iyo Railway Bus to “Machi no Eki Asamoya” bus stop (about 5 minutes)
- Ozu City Circular Bus “Gururin” to “Asamoya-mae” bus stop (about 6 minutes)
- Iyo Nanyo Bus or Uwajima Jidosha Bus to “Ozu Honmachi” bus stop (about 7 minutes)
- Walk from the bus stop to Garyu Sanso (about 6-7 minutes)
On Foot
- About 25-30 minutes walk from Iyo-Ozu Station
By Taxi
- A short taxi ride from Iyo-Ozu Station is possible
Details
Hours | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Reception closes at 4:30 PM. |
Admission | Adults: 550 yen Children: 22 yen |
Phone | +81 893-24-3759 |
Address | 411-2 Ozu, Ehime 795-0012 |
Official Website | https://www.garyusanso.jp/ |