basic information

Matsuyama is the largest city on Shikoku and the capital of Ehime Prefecture. At the heart of the city stands Matsuyamajo, a beautiful, original castle. The castle's hilltop vantage point offers a view of the city and a glimpse of the Seto Inland Sea.

The city is also famed for being the setting of Natsume Soseki's popular novel, entitled "Botchan". Often read as part of the Japanese school curriculum, the novel describes Matsuyama during the turbulent Meiji Restoration. Natsume's novel helped make the city renowned throughout Japan.

Dogo Onsen is frequently mentioned in "Botchan" and is one of Matsuyama's main tourist attractions. Referring to both a district northeast of the city center and a specific bath house, Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest hot spring resorts.

Attractions

Matsuyama City

Dogo Onsen (1) Famous hot spring resort inside the city. Matsuyama Castle (2) Relatively complete, original castle. Ishiteji Temple (3) Temple No. 51 on the Shikoku pilgrimage. Literature Related Sights (4) Matsuyma has a rich literary history.

Side Trips from Matsuyama

Uchiko Countryside town formerly known for its wax.

best of the best    best of Japan    outstanding (1) - (99)    most visited attractions

Orientation

Access and Orientation How to get to and around Matsuyama. About transportation in Japan

Any advice or questions? Voice them in the forum!

travel community

Users who have been to Matsuyama: 128
Most visited: Ranked 36th out of 106 destinations

Rating by users:		recommended (78/100, 64 votes)
Rating by staff:		recommended
Overall Rating:		outstanding

User Feedback We constantly strive to keep japan-guide.com up-to-date and accurate, and to find ways to improve the user experience. If you have any updates, suggestions, corrections or opinions, please let us know:

english links

japanese links