Matsuyama

Written by Alexander Kopp, Sandra Frank, Sophie King
21/08/2025
A stunning view of Matsuyama Castle amidst the lush forested hills in Ehime, Japan.
Cheng, Pexels

In Matsuyama, one discovers a tranquil urban center on Shikoku Island, offering a harmonious blend of historical depth and natural relaxation. It is a place where visitors can immerse themselves in the ancient tradition of Dogo Onsen, known as one of Japan's oldest hot springs, and explore the well-preserved Edo-era Matsuyama Castle, which stands proudly overlooking the city.

The Dogo Onsen district, with its bustling shopping street, serves as a primary gathering point for visitors. Additionally, Okaido Shopping Street offers a lively atmosphere with diverse dining and retail options, fostering opportunities for interaction.

Top 5 Things to do in Matsuyama

Matsuyama offers a diverse range of activities, allowing visitors to delve into historical landmarks, experience traditional hot springs, and explore cultural sites with literary connections.

1. Dogo Onsen Honkan

One can experience Japan's oldest hot spring at Dogo Onsen Honkan, a wooden public bathhouse from 1894, famously inspiring Studio Ghibli's 'Spirited Away.' Despite ongoing restoration, its historic baths, Kami no Yu and Tama no Yu, remain open. Visitors can choose from various plans to enjoy a relaxing soak, with options to access communal tatami rooms or private spaces for tea and snacks. Guided tours of the Yushinden, the Imperial Family's private bathing area, are also available, showcasing exquisite historical craftsmanship. Many visitors enjoy strolling the surrounding Dogo Onsen district in traditional yukata robes.

Cost: Basic bath admission starts from 700 yen for adults. Options for private rooms or additional amenities are available at higher costs (e.g., 1,300, 2,000, or 2,500 yen plans). A guided tour of the Yushinden costs 260 yen.

Transport: The Dogo Onsen Honkan is a short 3-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station. Trams are the most convenient way to reach Dogo Onsen Station from central Matsuyama, with a single ride costing 210-230 yen.

2. Matsuyama Castle

Perched atop Mount Katsuyama, Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's twelve original castles, offering a glimpse into the Edo period. Visitors can explore its well-preserved multi-storied keep, stone walls, turrets, and gates, some of which are Important Cultural Properties. From the castle, one discovers panoramic views of Matsuyama city and the Seto Inland Sea. A unique experience includes trying on samurai armor within the castle grounds. The cherry trees on the castle grounds provide a beautiful setting, especially in early spring.

Cost: Admission to the castle keep is 520 yen for adults. A round trip on the ropeway or chairlift to the castle base costs 520 yen for adults.

Transport: To reach the castle, one can take a tram to Okaido station, followed by a 5-minute walk to the ropeway/chairlift station. The tram ride costs 210-230 yen. The ropeway takes approximately 3 minutes, while the chairlift takes about 6 minutes. Alternatively, one can enjoy a scenic 15-30 minute walk up the hill.

3. Ishite-ji Temple

Ishite-ji, Temple #51 of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, offers a serene cultural experience near Dogo Onsen. Its Niōmon Gate is a designated National Treasure, and visitors can admire its impressive main hall, three-storied pagoda, and belfry, all important national cultural properties. The temple features a unique, dimly lit 200-meter-long cave adorned with Buddhist statues, leading to an inner temple. Pilgrims dressed in white are a common sight, contributing to the temple's authentic atmosphere. Shops along the temple's approach sell local specialties, such as 'oyaki.'

Cost: Entrance to the temple grounds is free for individuals. Access to the Treasure House requires a 200 yen fee.

Transport: Ishite-ji Temple is a short 5-minute bus ride or a 15-20 minute walk from the Dogo Onsen tram stop. The bus fare is approximately 230-250 yen (cash) or 230 yen (IC card).

4. Botchan Train

Step back in time aboard the Botchan Train, a charming diesel replica of the steam locomotives that once operated in Matsuyama during the Meiji era. Named after the protagonist of Natsume Soseki’s famous novel, the train offers a nostalgic journey through the city, connecting key areas like Matsuyama City Station and Dogo Onsen. Drivers in period uniforms enhance the historical atmosphere. A ride on this picturesque train provides a unique perspective of Matsuyama and includes a complimentary ride on the Kururin Ferris Wheel.

Cost: A single ride costs 800 yen for adults and 400 yen for children.

Transport: The Botchan Train operates between Matsuyama City Station, JR Matsuyama Station, Okaido, and Dogo Onsen, serving as a sightseeing transport option within the city.

5. Bansuiso Villa

Bansuiso Villa is a stunning French Renaissance-style château completed in 1922, serving as the former secondary residence of Count Hisamatsu Sadakoto. Designated as a National Important Cultural Property, this elegant villa hosts various art exhibitions and cultural events. One can wander through its retro rooms, enjoying a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle while admiring its architectural beauty and historical significance.

Cost: Entry to the site and ground floor is free. A fee of 300-400 yen for adults and 100 yen for children applies for access to the 2nd-floor exhibitions. Cash payment is typically required.

Transport: Bansuiso Villa is centrally located near Matsuyama Castle and within walking distance of covered shopping streets. It is accessible via the city's tram system, with nearby tram stops such as Kencho Mae or Ichibanchō.

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