Matsuyama is the capital of Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. It is most famous for its hot springs, which people have enjoyed for hundreds of years.
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1. Dogo Onsen Honkan
Dogo Onsen Honkan is believed to be the oldest hot spring in Japan, going back as far as 3,000 years.
The main building, a three-story castle-style wooden structure, has been designated an Important Cultural Property.
After enjoying the smooth hot spring water, put on a Yukata robe, stroll around the local streets full of culture, and get into the spirit of this Onsen town. A new annex called “Asuka-no-Yu” adopts the architectural style of the 6th to 8th centuries.
Dogo Onsen Main Building
5-6 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842
2. Matsuyama Ropeway Shopping Street
The Matsuyama Ropeway Shopping Street is at the foot of Matsuyama Castle, leading to the cable car station for the castle.
The relaxing street is lined with chic independent shops. From the widely known “Uwajima Taimeshi” to the leading brand “Imabari Towel,” the large variety of eateries and souvenir shops here offer a uniquely Ehime experience.
A specialty mikan shop is popular with tourists keen to try a cup of mikan juice uniquely served from the tap. It is one of the few universally designed shopping streets in Japan and offers a relaxing shopping atmosphere.
Matsuyama Ropeway Shopping Street
3 Chome-2, Okaido, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0004
3. Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s few castles with original surviving keeps or main towers.
Its 21 buildings are listed as Important Cultural Properties, and the castle is regarded as one of the three best "Renritsu-shiki Hirayama-jiro" (Renritsu-shiki: an architectural style where the top castle tower is in the center with smaller towers on either side; Hirayama-jiro: a castle built on a hill on a plain).
The towers are all connected to defend the main castle building. The castle is a well-known symbol of Matsuyama mentioned in many books and movies. It has been and will be guarding the city of Matsuyama for centuries!
Matsuyama Castle
1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0008
4. Bansuiso
Bansuiso is a Renaissance-style villa built as a second home for Sadakoto Hisamatsu, a descendant of the Matsuyama clan lord. It has hosted the Imperial Family and was a popular venue for high society notables of various artistic fields.
Making good use of the gorgeous architecture of the time, it hosts a range of events and exhibitions today and is designated an Important Cultural Property. Although located near the city center, the villa allows visitors to relax in the charming retro rooms isolated from the hustle and bustle going on outside.
Bansuis
3-3-7 Ichibancho, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, 790-0001
5. Okaido Shopping Arcade
Ōkaido is a huge shopping arcade in the center of Matsuyama. The Matsuyama Mitsukoshi department store…
