Ozu, Mountain town in Kikuchi district, Japan
Ōzu is a town in the Kikuchi district of Kumamoto Prefecture, situated where the Hiji River and Yaochi River meet. The settlement spreads across these middle river reaches at the foothills of the surrounding mountains.
The town was officially founded on April 1, 1889, establishing a modern administration for the area. This early development allowed it to participate in the industrial changes spreading across Japan during that era.
Handmade paper workshops and silk craftsmanship are woven into daily life here. You can watch artisans at work and purchase their creations in small local shops throughout town.
The central location makes it easy to reach neighboring cities by train or bus. Arriving in the morning gives you plenty of time to explore local workshops and shops before departure.
Several red brick buildings from the Meiji period still stand in town, remnants of that era's industrial growth. This architectural style is uncommon in rural Japanese towns, making them noteworthy for visitors.
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