Niihama Travel Guide

Discover Niihama, Japan with this comprehensive travel guide that includes where to go, what to do, where to stay, and more.


Introduction to Niihama

Niihama is a city located in Ehime, Shikoku, Japan. This city has a population of over 120,000 and is known for its beautiful landscapes and rich culture.

Niihama has a lot to offer to visitors, from historical museums to scenic views, making it a perfect destination for both adventurers and culture enthusiasts. This travel guide will provide you with information on the best places to visit, things to do, where to stay, and how to get there.

List of Places to Visit in Niihama

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Niihama City Museum of History and Folklore: This museum showcases the history and culture of Niihama and Ehime. You can learn about the region’s folklore, prehistoric remains, and the development of the city’s industry.

  • Niihama Taiko Dojo: Niihama is famous for its Taiko drumming culture. Visitors can experience this unique aspect of Niihama’s culture by visiting the Niihama Taiko Dojo. You can take drumming lessons or watch performances.

  • Niihama Catholic Church: The Niihama Catholic Church was built in 1916 and is worth a visit for its historical and architectural value. You can also learn about the history of Christianity in Japan.

Natural Attractions of Niihama: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Mount Iyo: Mount Iyo is a beautiful mountain range with many hiking trails. You can enjoy breathtaking views of Niihama and neighboring cities from the summit.

  • Niihama Port: Niihama Port is a bustling port from where you can take ferries to nearby islands. You can also enjoy a stroll on the pier and watch the ships come and go.

  • Kaiyodo Beach: Kaiyodo Beach is a beautiful beach with crystal clear waters and soft sands. You can sunbathe, swim, and snorkel here.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Niihama

  • Mount Iyo Hiking Trail: This trail takes you to the summit of Mount Iyo and offers stunning views of the city and neighboring areas. It’s a moderate hike and takes about three hours to reach the summit.

  • Oyamazumi Shrine Cycling Route: Oyamazumi Shrine is a historic shrine located in nearby Imabari. The cycling route from Niihama to Imabari is a beautiful and scenic route, passing through rural towns and villages along the way.

Best Things to Do in Niihama: Activities and Tours

  • Taiko Drumming Lesson: You can take Taiko drumming lessons at the Niihama Taiko Dojo, which will give you an immersive experience of Niihama’s drumming culture.

  • Fishing Tour: You can book a fishing tour at Niihama Port and catch various types of fish such as yellowtail, horse mackerel, and sea bream.

  • Island Hopping Tour: Niihama Port offers ferry services to nearby islands like Oomishima and Shikoku. You can take an island hopping tour and spend a day exploring these islands.

Week-Long Itinerary for Niihama

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Niihama City Museum of History and Folklore
Day 2 Take a Taiko Drumming Lesson at Niihama Taiko Dojo
Day 3 Hike Mount Iyo and enjoy the view
Day 4 Go on a fishing tour at Niihama Port
Day 5 Take the Oyamazumi Shrine Cycling Route to Imabari
Day 6 Visit nearby islands such as Oomishima and Shikoku
Day 7 Relax and enjoy Kaiyodo Beach

Food and Drink Scene of Niihama

Must-Try Dishes

  • Iyo Beef: This is a local specialty, similar to the famous Kobe beef, which is known for its tenderness and flavor.

  • Takomeshi: This is a rice dish that comes with grilled squid on top. It’s a popular dish in Niihama and has a unique flavor.

Local Beverages

  • Niihama Sake: Niihama produces its own sake, which is known for its smoothness and strong aroma.

  • Mikan Juice: Mikan is a type of Japanese mandarin orange that is grown in Niihama. The juice is sweet and refreshing.

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

  • Kyukamura Niyodo-Minami: This hotel is located near Mount Iyo and offers stunning views of the city. It’s a great place to stay if you’re planning to hike Mount Iyo.

  • Hotel Harvest Iyo: This hotel is located in downtown Niihama and is walking distance from many attractions such as the Niihama Port and Niihama City Museum of History and Folklore.

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

  • Iyo Beef: You can buy Iyo Beef at local butcher shops and meat markets.

  • Mikan: You can buy fresh Mikan or Mikan juice at local markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Niihama

  • Taiko Drumming Culture: Taiko drumming is an integral part of Niihama’s culture. It represents the city’s pride and identity, and you can see drumming performances throughout the city.

  • Basho Matsuri: Basho Matsuri is an annual festival held in Niihama, which celebrates the life and works of a renowned Japanese poet, Matsuo Basho. The festival includes Taiko drumming performances, parades, and poetry contests.

Best Time to Visit Niihama

The best time to visit Niihama is from April to June and from September to November when the weather is mild, and the scenery is beautiful.

Do’s and Don’ts of Niihama

Do:

  • Respect the local culture and customs.

  • Try local foods and drinks.

  • Be polite and courteous.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage public property.

  • Be loud and disruptive in public places.

  • Be disrespectful to local customs and traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Niihama

Niihama is a safe city, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling. Be aware of your surroundings and stay alert in crowded places.

Health in Niihama

There are many hospitals and clinics in Niihama that offer quality healthcare services. You can also find pharmacies and drug stores in the city.

Getting to Niihama: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Niihama

The nearest airport to Niihama is Matsuyama Airport, which is a 90-minute drive from downtown Niihama.

Bus Stations Near Niihama

Niihama Station is the main bus station in the city, which offers bus services to neighboring cities and towns.

Other Options

You can also travel to Niihama by train. Niihama Station is a major station on the JR Yosan Line, which connects to major cities in Shikoku and Honshu.

How to Get Around in Niihama

The best way to get around in Niihama is by car or bicycle. You can rent a car or a bicycle from local rental companies.

Where to Go Next from Niihama: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Imabari: Imabari is a city known for its castle and scenic cycling routes. It’s a perfect next destination from Niihama.

  • Matsuyama: Matsuyama is the capital city of Ehime and is known for its hot springs and historical landmarks.

Conclusion

Niihama is a hidden gem in Japan that offers a unique blend of culture and nature. Whether you’re a culture enthusiast or an adventurer, Niihama has something for everyone. This comprehensive travel guide provides you with all the information you need to plan your trip to this beautiful city.

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