Getting to Ozu
Every practical way to reach Ozu from Matsuyama and the main gateways, with times, rough costs and how to get around once you arrive.
Ozu is on the JR Yosan Line south of Matsuyama, one stop beyond Uchiko by limited express. The station is called Iyo-Ozu.
Routes to Ozu at a glance
| From | How | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Matsuyama | JR limited express Uwakai | About 35 min | Roughly hourly; covered by rail passes |
| Matsuyama | Iyonada Monogatari sightseeing train | About 2 h | Coastal route via Shimonada; weekends and holidays, all seats reserved |
| Uchiko | JR limited express or local | 10–15 min | Combine both towns in one day |
| Uwajima | JR limited express Uwakai | About 45 min | Hourly |
| Matsuyama | Car via the Matsuyama Expressway | About 50 min | Exit at Ozu IC; car parks by the castle and the old town |
Times are typical journey times; fares are rough guides. Timetables change every spring — check the operator before you travel.
By train
The Uwakai limited express links Matsuyama and Iyo-Ozu about once an hour. For a slower, far more scenic journey, the Iyonada Monogatari sightseeing train follows the coast and ends at Iyo-Ozu or Yawatahama, passing directly below the castle — staff and townspeople wave flags from the keep as it goes by.
From the station to the old town
Iyo-Ozu Station is on the north bank, about two kilometres from the sights. A local bus loops into the old town, taxis wait outside (a short, inexpensive ride), and the walk across the river takes 20–25 minutes. Bicycles can be rented at the station-side tourist office and in the old town.
Getting around Ozu
Once you are in the old quarter everything is on foot: castle, red-brick hall, Ohanahan-dori and Garyu Sanso lie along one 1.2-kilometre line beside the river. The town information centre at the edge of the old town has maps, lockers and bike hire.
Ready for Ozu?
Lock in a guide, a tasting or a day trip for Ozu now — most GetYourGuide bookings can be cancelled free up to 24 hours before.