Kiya Ryokan: Uwajima’s Historic Inn Said to Have a Zashiki-warashi

English Version

Kiya Ryokan in Uwajima, Ehime Prefecture, is said to be home to a zashiki-warashi, a childlike house spirit from Japanese folklore. According to the rumor, the spirit can only be seen by children whose hearts are still pure.

The inn was founded in 1911 as a traditional travelers’ lodging. Over the years, it is said to have been used by politicians and writers, and it is especially known as a place frequently visited by the novelist Ryotaro Shiba.

You can find it at 2-8-2 Honmachi Ote, Uwajima City, Ehime Prefecture. If you plan to visit, check current business information in advance and be respectful of the property, staff, and guests.

Japanese Language

座敷わらしが出る。心が穢れていない子どもにしか見えない。1911年に旅籠として創業、政治家や作家が利用してきたとされる。司馬遼太郎がよく使っていた事でも有名。愛媛県宇和島市本町追手2丁目8-2