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- Enjoy the nature of Ozu by cycling and canoeing.
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- 2022.03.22
Enjoy the nature of Ozu by cycling and canoeing.
Surrounded by the Shikoku Mountains, the clear Hiji River flows majestically.
The expressive nature of the Ozu Basin.
This is because many places are shaped like a bent human elbow.
A first-class river that flows through Ozu, and is said to have been given the name "Hiji River."
Water flows abundantly along its beautiful curves, bringing many fruits to the Ozu Basin that stretches along its banks.
Since ancient times, people have lived around Hiji River, and the flow of this river, which is the source of life for the people who live alongside Hiji River, makes us think of eternity.
A first-class river that flows through Ozu, and is said to have been given the name "Hiji River."
Water flows abundantly along its beautiful curves, bringing many fruits to the Ozu Basin that stretches along its banks.
Since ancient times, people have lived around Hiji River, and the flow of this river, which is the source of life for the people who live alongside Hiji River, makes us think of eternity.
In the midst of changing times, we look for things that remain the same. A special experience where you can trace history, enjoy delicious food, and enjoy traditional performing arts. Here, we introduce a journey through canoeing and cycling where you can spend your own time in the land of Ozu, where time passes peacefully.
Hiji River is the historical and cultural center of Ozu.
Unraveling Ozu is also knowing Hiji River. It once prospered as a waterway for transporting timber in mountainous areas. Famous buildings such as Ozu Castle and Garyu Sanso (villa) are located nearby. Although it often caused major floods, the amount and quality of water, and the nutrients that poured into the land from the floods, were used for farming and Silk cultivation, and were also used in the production of washi paper. People prayed for bountiful crops and enjoyed a custom called ``Okamori'' on the shores of Lake Hiji River. Even today, the name has been changed to `` Imotaki (local hot pot)'' and it continues to be an autumn tradition. The wisdom developed to live with Hiji River has created a culture unique to this area.
A unique canoeing experience on the clear Hiji River.
When we think of canoeing, we often associate it with an activity that involves sometimes crossing rapids. The canoeing experience here on Hiji River is completely different from those. It is an extremely calm river due to its large volume of water, gentle slope, and repeated elbow-like shape, which is said to be the origin of its name. On days when there is no wind, the surface of the water shows off the beautiful scenery above the water, creating a moment of tranquility. The canoe experience on Hiji River is different from the sweaty experience, but it is a special time where you can feel the atmosphere of Ozu town itself.
- Calm Hiji River basin
- The departure point Michi no Eki 'Seiryu no Sato' (Road Station). Descend the calm Hiji River with your guide as you aim for your final destination.
- View of Garyu Sanso (villa) from the lakeside
- Looking up from Hiji River, Garyu Sanso (villa) gives you a great sense of its location and topography.
- The final destination is Ozu Castle
- The final destination is Ozu Castle. In spring, the cherry blossoms will be in full bloom, welcoming you with a cherry blossom-colored blessing. It's also a good idea to take a break at a coffee shop or cafe near Ozu Castle.
Comes with a guide that is safe even for beginners
After meeting at the roadside station Seiryu no Sato Hijikawa, a 30-minute canoeing lecture will be held. The gentle flow of Hiji River is gentle even for beginners, and a guide will accompany you for a safe canoeing experience. Because Hiji River is closely connected to the lives of the people of Ozu, you can get a glimpse of the local way of life through this experience.
45km long ride with a guide
to cycling
to cycling
There are things you can't touch when you travel only to famous places. It's not just picturesque landscapes, it's country roads that you can only see if you go there, small shops that suddenly appear, uneven and winding roads that are poorly paved. You can see the true face of the town by paddling with your own feet and moving forward step by step. During this long ride experience, you can enjoy time to get to the heart of the journey while listening to the stories of a local guide.
A journey through rice terraces, satoyama, and modern heritage sites
Once you move a little away from the center, you will be surprised by the breadth of the area's topography and industry. The Satoyama culture nurtured by the mountains and rivers may seem brand new to many people, even Ehime residents. Unlike Hiji River in the downstream area, which shows a magnificent expanse, the upstream area has the appearance of a mountain stream and is even more interesting with its highly transparent water quality. After working up a nice sweat, let's end your trip with Satoyama hospitality.
- Cycling through the streets of Uchiko and Ozu washi factory, a modernization heritage site
- Departing from Iyonachiko Station, we proceed through the streets of Uchiko, including Uchiko-za.
- Enjoy a coffee break with a spectacular view at Izumiya Rice Terraces, which has been selected as one of the top 100 rice terraces.
- The beautiful scenery of the approximately 95 rice paddies that change in each season will soothe visitors both physically and mentally. Enjoy the nature of Satoyama, which has been recognized as one of Japan's Top 100 Rice Terraces.
- Ride along Hiji River, an important part of Ozu 's history Lunch at Chez Ritaro using local ingredients
- A newly opened cafe in an old folk house in Onaru, a village village in Ozu City. Take a break from your trip while experiencing the warmth of humanity.
