Experience the Ancient Art of Cormorant Fishing: “Ozu no Ukai” – A Magical Summer Night in Ehime
Imagine yourself drifting along the Hiji River under a star-studded sky, the gentle lapping of water against your boat, and the flickering glow of torches illuminating a centuries-old tradition. This is the magic of “Ozu no Ukai,” the cormorant fishing experience in Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan, and bookings are now open for the 2024 season!
Ozu, often dubbed “Little Kyoto of Iyo,” offers a glimpse into a bygone era, and “Ozu no Ukai” is a quintessential part of this experience. It’s not just fishing; it’s a performance, a spectacle, and a journey into the heart of Japanese culture.
What is Cormorant Fishing (Ukai)?
Ukai is a traditional fishing method where trained cormorants are used to catch fish. The fisherman, known as an ukai-sho, skillfully controls the birds with ropes, guiding them to dive and retrieve fish. The cormorants have rings around their necks to prevent them from swallowing the larger fish, which the fisherman later retrieves.
The Magic of “Ozu no Ukai”
“Ozu no Ukai” is particularly special because of its historical significance and the beautifully preserved setting in Ozu. Here’s what you can expect:
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Atmospheric Setting: The fishing takes place on the Hiji River, overlooked by the majestic Ozu Castle. The backdrop of the illuminated castle against the inky night sky adds a touch of romance and grandeur to the experience.
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Skilled Fishermen: Watch in awe as the ukai-sho skillfully maneuver the cormorants, maintaining a captivating dialogue with the birds. The sight of the torches casting a warm glow on the water and the graceful movements of the cormorants create a mesmerizing scene.
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Delicious Food (Optional): Many “Ukai” tours offer the option of enjoying a delicious meal onboard your boat while watching the fishing. Imagine savoring local Ehime specialties while immersed in this unique cultural experience!
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Historical Significance: Cormorant fishing in Ozu has a long and storied past, with records dating back centuries. By participating in “Ozu no Ukai,” you are not just witnessing a spectacle, but also connecting with a rich cultural heritage.
Why Ozu is More Than Just Cormorant Fishing
While “Ozu no Ukai” is a major draw, Ozu offers so much more for the discerning traveler:
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Ozu Castle: Explore the meticulously reconstructed Ozu Castle, offering panoramic views of the city and the surrounding landscape. Immerse yourself in the history and imagine life in feudal Japan.
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Garyu Sanso Villa: This stunning villa, with its intricate architecture and meticulously designed gardens, is a testament to Japanese aesthetics and tranquility. It’s a perfect place to escape the hustle and bustle and find inner peace.
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Old Town Charm: Wander through the charming streets of Ozu, lined with well-preserved traditional houses, shops, and restaurants. Discover local crafts, sample regional delicacies, and soak up the authentic atmosphere of this “Little Kyoto.”
Plan Your Trip to Ozu and Experience “Ozu no Ukai”!
According to 大洲市’s website (www.city.ozu.ehime.jp/site/kanko/60426.html), bookings for “Ozu no Ukai” are now open. This is a popular event, so booking in advance is highly recommended.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Visit the Official Website: Head to the Ozu City website (linked above) for the most up-to-date information on booking procedures, dates, times, and prices.
- Check Availability: “Ozu no Ukai” typically runs during the summer months, offering a cool and enchanting escape from the summer heat. Check the website for the specific dates and availability.
- Choose Your Experience: Decide if you want to include a meal with your “Ukai” viewing experience.
- Book Your Spot: Follow the booking instructions on the website to secure your place.
Getting to Ozu:
- By Train: Ozu is accessible by train from major cities like Matsuyama. The JR Yosan Line connects to Ozu Station.
- By Car: Ozu is also easily accessible by car.
Don’t miss out on this unique and unforgettable experience! Book your “Ozu no Ukai” tour today and prepare to be transported to a world of ancient tradition and magical beauty. It’s a journey you won’t soon forget!
The AI has delivered the news.
The following question was used to generate the response from Google Gemini:
At 2025-06-01 03:00, ‘「大洲のうかい」予約受付中’ was published according to 大洲市. Please write a detailed article with related information in an easy-to-understand manner, making readers want to travel.
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