Garyu Sanso

Garyu Sanso is a villa built over a period of about 10 years by Konjuro Kawauchi, who succeeded in the wax trade during the Meiji period and wanted to spend his retirement here in Ozu. It is a peculiar house built in the style of a tea-ceremony room, blending in with nature and known for having the best view of the Goyo River, earning it the nickname "Little Kyoto of Iyo". Being in this space allows you to absorb negative ions just by being there.

At Goryu-in Temple, which is said to have received the most passion, there are rooms that represent the four seasons. Spring is represented by the "Greeting Room" at the entrance, summer by the well-ventilated "Clear Breeze Room," autumn by the "First is Room" where you can enjoy the autumn leaves, and winter by the "Mist and Moon Room" which expresses a sense of loneliness. It's interesting that you can enjoy all four seasons regardless of the time of year, thanks to the elaborate design. Please visit and find your favorite space!

The garden outside Gakuryo-in and Chishian, which was built as a bathhouse, is adorned with carefully arranged stepping stones and moss. Various trees and flowers are also planted, with the intention of creating a beautiful and seasonal atmosphere, such as the blooming of the crepe myrtle and the fragrant osmanthus. When you are in this beautifully arranged garden, you will forget the hustle and bustle of everyday life and be mesmerized by its beauty.

As soon as you pass through the gate of Garyu Sanso, you'll be captivated by the distinctive stone walls. Among the various stacking methods that incorporate changes such as "disorderly stacking" and "flowing stacking," "chisha trees" grow, allowing you to feel the coexistence of nature and artificiality. One unusual feature incorporated into the walls is a "stone mortar," which gives a playful nod to the time of its construction.

At Furo-an, which was originally a tea room, on Sundays from April to October (excluding August), you can enjoy matcha and Japanese sweets prepared by a tea master. Furo-an itself is a sukiya-style building perched on a cliff, offering a beautiful view of the Kono River. After finishing your tour, it's lovely to take a break at Furo-an with a cup of matcha and enjoy the beautiful scenery.