Matsuyama
A hilltop castle and an ancient hot spring.
Matsuyama is Shikoku's largest city and a relaxed place to spend a day or two. Its castle sits on a hill in the center and is one of Japan's original keeps. Dogo Onsen, a short streetcar ride away, is one of the oldest hot-spring towns in Japan, centered on a grand old wooden bathhouse. The city is a good base for Uchiko and the Shimanami Kaido.
Best time: Early April for cherry blossoms at the castle, or October and November. Summers are hot.
Weather
Average temperature, °C. JMA 1991–2020 normals (Matsuyama (JMA)).
Top 5
- Matsuyama CastleAn original keep on a hill above the city.
- Dogo Onsen HonkanThe historic public bathhouse at the heart of Dogo.
- Ishite-jiA temple on the 88-temple pilgrimage.
- Dogo shopping arcadeSnacks, towels and local citrus goods.
- UchikoA day trip to old wax-merchant houses and the Uchiko-za theater.
A simple day
- Up to Matsuyama Castle in the morning.
- Tai-meshi lunch.
- Streetcar to Dogo.
- Visit Ishite-ji.
- Soak at Dogo Onsen in the evening.
Where to stay
- Dogo OnsenRyokan within walking distance of the baths.
- Okaido / IchibanchoCentral, near the castle and restaurants.
Getting there
Tokyo → Matsuyama: under 1h30 by air; the airport is about 15 min from the center by car. Okayama → Matsuyama: about 2h40 by Limited Express Shiokaze.
psst — skip this mistake: Skipping the overnight. Dogo is best in the evening, walking in yukata.