Former Ozu Residence: A Glimpse into Merchant Life

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Explore the meticulously preserved Former Ozu Residence in Matsusaka, offering a captivating glimpse into the life of a wealthy Edo-era merchant.

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Former Ozu Residence

The Former Ozu Residence in Matsusaka offers a fascinating look into the life of a wealthy paper wholesaler during the Edo period. The well-preserved mansion showcases traditional architecture and provides insights into the customs and history of the time. Visitors can explore the residence, admire the tatami mat flooring, and discover artifacts like the impressive 'Ten thousand Ryō Box'.

A brief summary to Former Ozu Residence

2195 Honmachi, Matsusaka, Honmachi, Mie, 515-0081, JP
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Monday 9 am-4:30 pm
Tuesday 9 am-4:30 pm
Thursday 9 am-4:30 pm
Friday 9 am-4:30 pm
Saturday 9 am-4:30 pm
Sunday 9 am-4:30 pm

Local tips

Be prepared to remove your shoes when entering the tatami mat areas to fully experience traditional Japanese living.
Visit on a day other than Wednesday, as the residence is closed then.
Allow ample time to explore the residence and serene gardens, immersing yourself in the history and culture.

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Getting There

Walking

From JR and Kintetsu Matsusaka Station, the Former Ozu Residence is approximately a 10-minute walk. Exit the station and head east, following the main street. You'll find the residence on your right, a short distance from the main road. Look for the traditional Japanese architecture.
Public Transport

The Former Ozu Residence is easily accessible by local bus. From Matsusaka Station, take a bus heading towards Honmachi. Get off at the Honmachi bus stop, which is a short walk from the residence. Bus fares typically cost around ¥200-300.

Discover more about Former Ozu Residence

Step back in time at the Former Ozu Residence, also known as the Matsusaka Merchant Museum, a historical landmark in Matsusaka. This well-preserved house, constructed around 1700, once belonged to Ozu Kiyozaemon, a prominent paper manufacturer and wholesaler in the Edo period. The Ozu family played a significant role in Matsusaka's history, with connections to Mitsui Takatoshi, the founder of one of Japan's top conglomerates, and filmmaker Yasujirō Ozu.Explore the mansion's residential buildings and storehouses, which reflect the prosperity of the Ozu family. The complex was expanded over many years between the late 17th and mid-19th centuries. Inside, you'll find exhibits showcasing the local history and traditions of the era. One highlight is the 'Ten thousand Ryō Box,' a large chest used to store gold, a testament to the family's wealth.The Former Ozu Residence also highlights the Ozu family's generosity. Situated along the Ise-kaidō road, the family provided food and shelter to pilgrims on their way to the Grand Shrine. Today, the residence stands as a reminder of Matsusaka's rich merchant history and the Ozu family's contributions to the city.