Matsuyama Travel Guide

A comprehensive guide of Matsuyama, Japan. Learn about its attractions, food and drink scene, where to stay, and cultural customs, among other things.


Introduction to Matsuyama

Matsuyama is a city located in Ehime Prefecture, on the island of Shikoku in Japan. It is known for its hot springs, ancient castle, and scenic views. Matsuyama is a popular destination for tourists that want to experience the authentic Japanese culture while enjoying the local cuisine, history, and traditions.

List of Places to Visit in Matsuyama

Matsuyama has an abundance of sights and attractions to explore, including museums, natural landscapes, and cultural sites. Below are some of the must-visit places:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Matsuyama Castle: The castle is one of the most significant historical structures in Matsuyama, dating back to the 17th century. Visitors can learn about the castle’s rich history and explore its lush gardens and scenic views.
  • Dogo Onsen: The Dogo Onsen is the oldest hot spring in Japan, dating back to the 19th century. The bathhouse’s architecture is stunning and played a role in inspiring works of literature, such as the novel “Botchan.” It has since become an integral part of Japan’s cultural heritage.
  • Ehime Prefectural Museum of History and Culture: The museum depicts Ehime Prefecture’s history and culture from ancient times to modern days.

Natural Attractions of Matsuyama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Shimanami Kaido: Shimanami Kaido is a series of bridges that link the islands between Honshu and Shikoku. Visitors can enjoy scenic views of Seto Inland Sea and cycle along the bridges for a unique experience.
  • Mount Ishizuchi: Mount Ishizuchi is the highest mountain in western Japan, located in the northwest of Matsuyama City. The mountain is popular among hikers and nature enthusiasts and is accessible via cable car.
  • Matsuyama Botanical Garden: The garden is home to varieties of flora and fauna from Japan and overseas. It is a great destination for nature lovers and anyone looking to relax and escape the busy city life.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Matsuyama

Matsuyama is a paradise for hiking and biking enthusiasts, with an abundance of scenic routes to explore. Some of the popular routes include:

  • Shikoku Pilgrimage: The Shikoku Pilgrimage spans 88 sacred temples in Shikoku, including ones in Matsuyama. Visitors can explore the pilgrimage on foot or bicycle.
  • Ishizuchi Skyline: A winding road that is 18.7 km long with several observation points offering jaw-dropping views of Matsuyama city and the surrounding areas.
  • Dogo Park Road: A scenic road that runs through Dogo Park, where visitors enjoy cherry blossoms during the spring, and autumn foliage during fall.

Best Things to Do in Matsuyama: Activities and Tours

Whether you are a solo traveler or traveling with family, Matsuyama has something for everyone. Here are some of the best activities and tours to incorporate into your itinerary:

  • Tea Ceremony: Attend a traditional Japanese tea ceremony and learn about the significance of tea in Japanese culture.
  • Cooking Class: Learn how to prepare traditional Japanese cuisine and master the art of sushi making.
  • Kimono Dress-up: Dress up in a traditional Japanese kimono and take a stroll around the city while embodying the traditional Japanese culture.

Week-Long Itinerary for Matsuyama

Planning a weeklong trip to Matsuyama can be overwhelming, given the abundance of sights and activities to consider. Here’s a suggested itinerary covering some of Matsuyama’s major attractions:

Day Activity
1 Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen, Botanical Garden
2 Shimanami Kaido Cycling Tour, Imabari
3 Mount Ishizuchi, Tobe Zoological Park
4 Matsuyama City Museum, Ehime Prefectural Craft Museum
5 Sake Brewery Tour, Setoda Sunset
6 Yuzuki Castle Ruins, Garyu Sanso Villa
7 Karst Plateau, Matsuyama Ropeway

Food and Drink Scene of Matsuyama

Matsuyama is known for its delicious dishes made with fresh, local ingredients. Additionally, the city has many traditional restaurants, cafes, and bars to enjoy the local cuisine, including:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Botchan dango: Sticky rice dumplings that are a Matsuyama specialty. It is said that the dish was initially created to provide energy to the workers constructing Matsuyama Castle during the Edo period.
  • Imo-ni: Stewed sweet potatoes that are made with dashi (fish broth) and soy sauce. The dish has long been part of Matsuyama’s culture and accompanies various celebrations, such as New Year’s celebrations and other special events.
  • Tai-meshi: Rice that is cooked with sea bream, one of Matsuyama’s signature dishes served with miso soup and pickled vegetables.

Local Beverages

  • Sake: Matsuyama is home to several sake breweries, such as Yamanashi, Yamagata, Kumamoto, and Gunma. The sake is infused with rice and yeast, producing a sweet and sour taste.
  • Ume-shu: A sweet liquor made from Japanese plums, sugar, and distilled spirits. It is known for its fruity taste and is served cold or warmed.
  • Sanuki-Brewed Beer: A locally brewed beer made in Kagawa Prefecture, a neighboring prefecture of Ehime. The beer’s unique flavor comes from the use of water from the nearby Mount Ishizuchi, one of the largest mountains in Western Japan.

Where to Stay in Matsuyama: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Matsuyama has several accommodation options to suit all budgets and preferences, from traditional Japanese ryokans and budget-friendly hostels to luxury hotels. Some of the best options include:

  • Matsuyama Youth Hostel: The hostel is located near Dogo Onsen and offers affordable accommodation options and private rooms.
  • Hotel Pearl City Matsuyama: The hotel is located in the heart of Matsuyama city, offering immaculate views of Matsuyama Castle and the city center.
  • Dogo Onsen Funaya: The ryokan is a traditional Japanese inn located near Dogo Onsen, offering guests hot springs, traditional cuisine, and a unique Japanese experience.

What to Buy in Matsuyama: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Matsuyama has many local products, souvenirs, and gifts that you can take home as a memory of your trip. Some of the popular items include:

  • Handcrafted Pottery: Matsuyama is known for its pottery made using traditional techniques, patterns, and glazes. You can purchase pottery or attend a class to learn how to create your own.
  • Iyo Kasuri: A traditional fabric made from cotton, known for its intricate patterns and durability. Visitors can purchase clothing, accessories, and gifts made from Iyo Kasuri.
  • Sweet Potato Products: Matsuyama produces a wide range of sweets and snacks made from sweet potatoes, including wagashi, a traditional Japanese confectionery, and imo-pon, chips made from sweet potatoes.

Local Culture and Customs of Matsuyama

Matsuyama has many cultural customs that are integral to the city’s daily life. When visiting, it is essential to respect these customs, including taking off your shoes before entering a home or traditional restaurant and bowing to show respect.

Best Time to Visit Matsuyama

The best time to visit Matsuyama is during the spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November) months. These months offer mild weather, blooming cherry blossoms in spring, and colorful foliage in autumn.

Do’s and Don’ts of Matsuyama

Do:

  • Take off your shoes when entering a traditional restaurant or hotel.
  • Respect the local culture and customs.
  • Visit the hot springs and sample the local cuisine.

Don’t:

  • Make loud noises in public places or disturb the peace.
  • Bring food or drinks when visiting a temple or shrine.
  • Smoke in public places, including in the streets.

Safety and Health

Safety in Matsuyama

Matsuyama is a safe destination, with low crime rates. However, visitors should always take precautions, such as keeping valuables in safe and secure places to avoid attracting thieves.

Health in Matsuyama

Matsuyama has a high standard of healthcare services, with many hospitals and clinics available. It’s essential to take precautionary measures, such as staying hydrated and applying sunblock to prevent heatstroke or sunburns, especially during the summer months.

Getting to Matsuyama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Matsuyama

Matsuyama Airport is the primary airport in the region, offering domestic and international flights to mainland Japan and overseas destinations.

Bus Stations Near Matsuyama

Matsuyama has many bus stations connecting the city to other destinations in the region. The bus systems are affordable and convenient for travelers.

Other Options

Ferry services connect Matsuyama with other cities in the Seto Inland Sea region along with bus and train services.

How to Get Around in Matsuyama

Matsuyama has many public transportation options, including buses, streetcars, and trains. Taxis and rental cars are also available for more flexibility and convenience.

Where to Go Next from Matsuyama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Matsuyama is a gateway to other places in Shikoku and Western Japan. Some of the recommended destinations to visit include Takamatsu, Imabari, Hiroshima, and Okayama.

Conclusion

Matsuyama is an enchanting city full of history, culture, and natural beauty. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s rich past, outdoor adventures, or enjoying its local cuisine, Matsuyama has something for everyone. From the stunning Matsuyama Castle to the oldest hot springs in Japan and the beautiful Shimanami Kaido, Matsuyama is a destination that will leave you with unforgettable memories.

Botchan Ressha is a common sight in the downtown area. Botchan Ressha is a common sight in the downtown area. The ''Shiokaze'' is the main train service connecting Matsuyama with the Japanese mainland. The ''Shiokaze'' is the main train service connecting Matsuyama with the Japanese mainland. Map of Matsuyama Map of Matsuyama Bansuiso, nestled against Katsuyama Mountain Bansuiso, nestled against Katsuyama Mountain Matsuyama Castle Tower (tenshu) Matsuyama Castle Tower (tenshu) The other castle on the grounds of Matsuyama Central Park The other castle on the grounds of Matsuyama Central Park Buddha's feet, Jōdoji Buddha's feet, Jōdoji Dōgo Onsen bathhouse Dōgo Onsen bathhouse