Tsu: Castle Park, Temples and Cultural History

Tsu offers several points of cultural and historical interest: the ruins of Tsu Castle, the temples Shitennoji and Tsu Kannon, as well as Tsu Matsuri and Anotsu Yosakoi. Options range from a stroll in tranquil park surroundings to temple history and a Zazen experience that requires a reservation. When planning your trip, it is therefore worth considering both the different themes and specific participation and exhibition information.

Castle Park and the History of Tsu Castle

The ruins of Tsu Castle are in the city center. Parts of the Honmaru and Nishinomaru, as well as the inner moat, remain; the grounds are laid out as a castle park. You can stroll in peaceful surroundings by the moat and gardens. A visit offers a chance to consider the surviving castle areas alongside the site’s present-day use as a park. The castle was founded by Oda Nobukane and extensively rebuilt by Tōdō Takatora, an experienced castle builder. The founding and rebuilding mark different stages in the site’s history.

Temples, Traditions and Zazen

Shitennoji is considered the oldest temple in Tsu. A gate from the early Edo period and old roof tiles dating from the time of Prince Shōtoku have been preserved. These reflect different historical connections: the gate to the early Edo period, and the roof tiles to Prince Shōtoku. Zazen experiences are also offered, and reservations are required. They last 1.5 to 2 hours and cost 5,000 yen per person; participation is not possible on some days. Check possible dates in advance and allow for the time commitment when planning your day.

Tsu Kannon, officially Ebijisan Kannonji, is in central Tsu. Alongside Asakusa Kannon in Tokyo and Osu Kannon in Nagoya, it is counted among Japan’s three great Kannon temples. Its founding tradition dates back to 709: the principal image is said to have been caught in a fisherman’s net off Akogiura. Tsu Kannon has about 600 valuable cultural properties. Some are displayed at the Tsu Kannon Museum regularly or as needed. Check the current museum arrangements before your visit.

Traditions and Planning

Tsu Matsuri is an event with a long tradition. Anotsu Yosakoi originated in 1998 from Tsu Matsuri; people of any age or gender can take part in Anotsu Yosakoi. If you would like to include this event in your travel plans, check the current program before you arrive.

For planning your time, Zazen is the more clearly defined activity: a reservation is required and a duration of 1.5 to 2 hours is specified, while museum visits depend on the current exhibition arrangements. This difference can help you plan the cultural highlights of your stay in Tsu.

Discover more destinations: Iga, Odai, Owase, Suzuka, Nabari, Shima, Yokkaichi, Ise

For the broader travel overview: Mie Prefecture.