Matsuyama: Getting there and around

How to travel between Matsuyama and Tokyo

By air

ANA and JAL operate several flights per day between Matsuyama and Tokyo's Haneda Airport. Flight duration is 90 minutes. The regular one way fare is around 37,000 yen, but discounts tickets are typically available for 11,000 to 27,000 yen. Furthermore, Jetstar Japan operates flights between Matsuyama and Narita Airport at fares that are typically around 6,000 yen.

From Matsuyama Airport, a bus takes passengers into Matsuyama City. The bus stops first at JR Matsuyama Station (700 yen, 15 minutes), then at Matsuyama-shi Station (790 yen, 20 minutes) and finally at Dogo Onsen (950 yen, 40 minutes).

By train

Take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen from Tokyo to Okayama (3.5 hours) and transfer to a JR Shiokaze limited express train for Matsuyama (2.5 hours). The entire one way trip takes around 6.5 hours and costs about 20,000 yen.

Because the Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi trains, pass holders have to use Hikari or Sakura trains between Tokyo and Okayama, which adds about 45-60 minutes to the travel time. Otherwise, the pass fully covers the trip.

By highway bus

Several overnight highway buses are operated daily between Tokyo and Matsuyama. The regular one way fare is around 12,000 yen. This route is also served by discount buses companies that offer lower fares. Online reservations can be made through Willer and Japan Bus Online.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Kyoto

By air

ANA, JAL and Peach operate several flights per day between both of Osaka's airports (Itami and Kansai) and Matsuyama. The regular one way fare by ANA and JAL is around 19,000 yen, but discount tickets are typically available for 10,000 to 17,000 yen. The fares by Peach are considerably lower, starting around 3000 yen.

Flight duration is one hour. From Matsuyama Airport, a bus takes passengers into Matsuyama City. The bus stops first at JR Matsuyama Station (700 yen, 15 minutes), then at Matsuyama-shi Station (790 yen, 20 minutes) and finally at Dogo Onsen (950 yen, 40 minutes).

By train

Take the JR Tokaido/Sanyo Shinkansen from Kyoto to Okayama (one hour) and transfer to the JR Shiokaze limited express train for Matsuyama (2.5 hours). The entire one way trip takes around four hours and costs about 12,500 yen. Because the Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi trains, pass holders have to use Hikari or Sakura trains between Kyoto and Okayama, which adds about 15-30 minutes to the travel time. Otherwise, the pass fully covers the trip.

By highway bus

Daytime and overnight highway buses are operated between Kyoto and Matsuyama. The one way trip takes 5.5 hours by daytime and 7 hours by overnight buses. The regular one way fare is 7350 yen. Round trip tickets are available for 13,200 yen and must be used within 10 days. Discount bus operators such as Willer Express offer one way fares from around 4000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer and Japan Bus Online.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Osaka

By air

By train

Take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen from Osaka to Okayama (one hour) and transfer to the JR Shiokaze limited express train for Matsuyama (2.5 hours). The entire one way trip takes around four hours and costs about 11,000 yen. The Japan Rail Pass is valid on Sakura and Hikari trains between Osaka and Okayama but not on Nozomi and Mizuho trains.

By highway bus

Daytime and overnight highway buses are operated between Osaka and Matsuyama. The one way trip takes 5.5 hours by daytime and 7 hours by overnight buses. The regular one way fare is 7050 yen. Round trip tickets are available for 12,700 yen and must be used within 10 days. Discount bus operators such as Willer Express offer one way fares from around 4000 yen. Online reservations can be made through Willer.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Hiroshima

By ferry

By far the fastest way to travel between Hiroshima and Matsuyama is by boat. Setonaikai Kisen operates frequent high speed boats and car ferries between Hiroshima Port and Matsuyama Sightseeing Port. The one way trip takes 70 minutes and costs 7,800 yen by high speed boat, or 2.5 hours and 4,500 yen by car ferry. The cost for a regular sized car is 9,300 yen one way. Both ports are located about a 30 minute bus or tram ride outside of their respective city centers.

By train

Travel between Hiroshima and Matsuyama by train involves a big detour via Okayama and is only recommended to Japan Rail Pass holders and travelers prone to seasickness. Take the JR Sanyo Shinkansen from Hiroshima to Okayama (40 minutes) and transfer to a JR Shiokaze limited express train for Matsuyama (2.5 hours). The entire one way trip takes 3.5 to 4 hours and costs about 11,000 yen. It is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass if using a Sakura train between Hiroshima and Okayama, but the pass is not valid on Nozomi and Mizuho trains.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Beppu

By ferry

By far the fastest way to travel between Matsuyama and Beppu is by ferry.

Uwajima Unyu operates multiple ferries per day in both directions between Beppu Sightseeing Port and Yawatahama Port on Shikoku (165 minutes, around 3500 yen one way). The cost for a regular sized car is around 12,000 yen one way. Yawatahama Port is a five minute bus or taxi ride from Yawatahama Station, which can be reached from Matsuyama by limited express (45 minutes, about 2500 yen) or by local trains (100-120 minutes, 1300 yen). Online reservations can be made through Direct Ferries.

By train

Traveling between Matsuyama and Beppu by train involves a big detour via Okayama and is only recommended to Japan Rail Pass holders and travelers prone to seasickness.

Take a JR Shiokaze limited express train from Matsuyama to Okayama (2.5 hours), transfer to the JR Sanyo Shinkansen to Kokura (90 minutes) and finally take the JR Sonic limited express to Beppu (75 minutes). The entire one way trip takes around six hours and costs about 18,000 yen. Because the Japan Rail Pass is not valid on Nozomi and Mizuho trains, pass holders have to use Sakura trains between Okayama and Kokura, which might add some time to the journey. Otherwise, the pass fully covers the trip.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Takamatsu

By train

Takamatsu and Matsuyama are connected by hourly JR Ishizuchi limited express trains. The one way trip takes around 2.5 hours, costs about 6000 yen and is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and All Shikoku Rail Pass.

By bus

Takamatsu (Takamatsu Station) and Matsuyama (Matsuyama-shi Station and JR Matsuyama Station) are connected by hourly highway buses. The one way trip takes around 2.5 hours and costs 4400 yen.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Kochi

By bus

Highway buses by JR Shikoku Bus, Iyotetsu Bus and Kotoden Kotsu connect Matsuyama (Matsuyama-shi Station and JR Matsuyama Station) with Kochi (Kochi Station) almost hourly. The one way trip takes 2.5 to 3 hours and costs 3700 yen. Online reservations for the JR buses can be made via Willer.

By train

The train journey between Matsuyama and Kochi requires a transfer of trains at Tadotsu. It takes almost 4.5 hours, costs around 10,000 yen, but is fully covered by the Japan Rail Pass and All Shikoku Rail Pass.

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How to travel between Matsuyama and Tokyo

By air

By train

By highway bus

Above fees and schedules are subject to change. Be sure to check current yen exchange rates.

Getting around

Matsuyama has two main train stations: JR Matsuyama Station to the west of the city center and Matsuyama-shi Station (sometimes referred to in English as Matsuyama City Station), the main station of the local Iyotetsu Railways company in the south of downtown. Matsuyama Castle defines the city center, while Dogo Onsen is located on the northeastern outskirts of the city.

The most convenient way to travel around the city is by tram. Iyotetsu operates five tram lines across the city, connecting JR Matsuyama Station in the west, to Matsuyama-shi Station in the south and Dogo Onsen area to the northeast. A single tram ride costs 180 yen regardless of distance traveled. A one-day pass for unlimited use on one calendar day is available for 800 yen.

To use the tram, board through the rear door just like on local buses. Payment is made with exact change upon exit through the front door. There are change machines to break bills and 500 yen coins inside the trams next to the driver.

Iyotetsu also operates an extensive bus network through Matsuyama. For most tourists, the trams provide adequate access to all sightseeing areas. Three buses however, may be of interest: the first operates between Dogo Onsen and Ishiteji Temple (5 minutes, 180 yen). Two other buses shuttle passengers to Matsuyama Airport and Matsuyama Port (see below).

Matsuyama Airport lies on the city's southwestern boundary. Airport buses serve JR Matsuyama Station (700 yen, 15 minutes), Matsuyama-shi Station (790 yen, 20 minutes) and Dogo Onsen (950 yen, 35 minutes). Besides domestic destinations, Matsuyama Airport also has a few international flights to nearby Asian destinations.

Matsuyama Port (Matsuyama Sightseeing Port) is located northwest of the city center. From Matsuyama-shi Station, take the Iyotetsu Takahama Line to Takahama Station (20 minutes, 440 yen), from where the port is a short bus ride (2 minutes, 180 yen) or a 10-15 minute walk. Alternatively, there are direct buses from JR Matsuyama Station to the port (20 minutes, 780 yen, every 2 hours).

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- Dogo Miyu
  Luxury
  
  Set in Matsuyama, 500 metres from Joshin-ji Temple, Dogo Miyu offers accommodation with a garden, free private parking, a shared lounge and a restaurant. With free WiFi, this 4-star ryokan offers room service and a 24-hour front desk. The property is non-smoking and is situated 800 metres from Matsuyama Shrine. The ryokan will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV, a terrace and a private bathroom with a bidet. The units feature a wardrobe. Dogo Miyu offers 4-star accommodation with a hot spring bath. Miyukiji Temple is 1.4 km from the accommodation, while Matsuyama castle is 2.4 km away. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 10 km from Dogo Miyu.
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- Cinnamon Guesthouse Dogo
  Budget-friendly
  
  Open from 2015, Cinnamon Guesthouse Dogo offers female only and mixed dormitory rooms with free WiFi. Dogo Onsen Station is a 4-minute walk away. Each bunk bed in the dormitory rooms come with a curtain to secure your privacy. Bathroom facilities and toilets are shared with other guests. Guests can cook their own meals in the shared kitchen with free-use kitchenware and seasonings. There is also a bar on the ground floor. There is no laundry facility on site, however, guests can take a 10-minute stroll to a nearby public coin launderette. The nearest super market is a 5-minute walk away, while the nearest convenience store is just a 2-minute walk from Cinnamon Guesthouse Dogo. The property is a 40-minute bus ride from Matsuyama Airport and Matsuyama Tourist Port. Matsuyama Castle is a 15-minute train ride away.
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- Kowakuen Haruka
  Luxury
  
  Situated in Matsuyama and with Joshin-ji Temple reachable within 500 metres, Kowakuen Haruka features a garden, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi and a restaurant. This 4-star ryokan offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. All rooms at the ryokan come with air conditioning, a seating area, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a safety deposit box and a private bathroom with a bidet, a hairdryer and slippers. All rooms come with a kettle, while some rooms also boast a balcony and others also feature city views. At Kowakuen Haruka the rooms are fitted with bed linen and towels. Buffet and Asian breakfast options are available each morning at the accommodation. Kowakuen Haruka offers 4-star accommodation with a hot spring bath. Matsuyama Shrine is less than 1 km from the ryokan, while Miyukiji Temple is a 17-minute walk from the property. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 10 km from Kowakuen Haruka.
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- 3LDK Denchi
  Budget-friendly
  
  Featuring 1-star accommodation, 3LDK Denchi is set in Matsuyama, 100 metres from Botchan Train Museum and less than 1 km from Yasaka Temple. This 1-star guest house offers luggage storage space. The property is non-smoking and is situated less than 1 km from Matsuyama Civic Center. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a fridge, a microwave, a kettle, a shower, free toiletries and a desk. With a private bathroom fitted with a bath and a hairdryer, rooms at the guest house also have free WiFi. At 3LDK Denchi all rooms have bed linen and towels. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Okaido Shopping Street, The Museum of Art, Ehime and Matsuyama Station. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 6 km from 3LDK Denchi.
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- Yamatoya Honten
  Luxury
  
  Set in Matsuyama and with Joshin-ji Temple reachable within 600 metres, Yamatoya Honten offers a restaurant, non-smoking rooms, free WiFi and a bar. This 4-star ryokan offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Private parking is available on site. All guest rooms come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a bidet, free toiletries and a wardrobe. The ryokan provides some units that feature a safety deposit box, and all rooms include a private bathroom with a bath and a hairdryer. An Asian breakfast is available every morning at Yamatoya Honten. The accommodation offers 4-star accommodation with a hot spring bath. Matsuyama Shrine is less than 1 km from Yamatoya Honten, while Miyukiji Temple is a 19-minute walk from the property. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 10 km from the ryokan.
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- Dougoya
  Mid-range
  
  Situated in the popular Dogo Hot Spring area, Onsen Ryokan Dougoya provides traditional Japanese-style accommodation with natural a hot spring bath and a lovely garden. Free WiFi is available in guest rooms. The ryokan is just a 5-minute walk from famous Dogo Hot Spring Bathhouse. It is a 8-minute walk from Dogo Onsen tram stop, which is an 18-minute ride away from JR Matsuyama Station. Iconic Matsuyama Castle is a 15-minute tram and a 5-minute lift ride away. Each room at Dogoya is fitted with tatami (woven-straw) flooring and futon bedding. Private rooms feature a low table and seating cushions. Bathroom and toilet are shared with other guests. Two 24-hour shower rooms are available on site. Free toiletries and free towel rental are available in the hot spring bath and shower. Private use of public hot spring bath is available during limited hours. Guests can relax in the common room with a flat-screen TV. Free luggage storage and a free safety deposit box to store valuables is available.
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- Dormy Inn Matsuyama Natural Hot Spring
  Mid-range
  
  Featuring 3-star accommodation, Dormy Inn Matsuyama Natural Hot Spring is set in Matsuyama, 500 metres from Yasaka Temple and 60 metres from Okaido Shopping Street. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. The accommodation offers a sauna, hot spring bath, restaurant and free WiFi throughout the property. The units come with air conditioning, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a fridge, a kettle, a bidet, free toiletries and a wardrobe. At the hotel all rooms come with bed linen and towels. A buffet breakfast is available every morning at Dormy Inn Matsuyama Natural Hot Spring. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Botchan Train Museum, Matsuyama Civic Center and Ishitegawa Park. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 8 km from Dormy Inn Matsuyama Natural Hot Spring.
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- Comfort Hotel Matsuyama
  Mid-range
  
  Situated 600 metres from Botchan Train Museum, Comfort Hotel Matsuyama offers 3-star accommodation in Matsuyama and has free bikes. This 3-star hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space. Free WiFi is available and private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. The hotel will provide guests with air-conditioned rooms offering a desk, a kettle, a fridge, a safety deposit box, a flat-screen TV and a private bathroom with a bidet. At Comfort Hotel Matsuyama rooms include bed linen and towels. A continental breakfast is available each morning at the accommodation. Popular points of interest near Comfort Hotel Matsuyama include Matsuyama Civic Center, The Museum of Art, Ehime and Yasaka Temple. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 7 km from the hotel.
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- DogoYaya
  Luxury
  
  Featuring 4-star accommodation, DogoYaya is situated in Matsuyama, 500 metres from Joshin-ji Temple and 800 metres from Matsuyama Shrine. With a restaurant, the 4-star hotel has air-conditioned rooms with free WiFi. Private parking is available on site. Guest rooms in the hotel are fitted with a kettle. All rooms at DogoYaya are fitted with a flat-screen TV with satellite channels and a safety deposit box. A buffet, ? la carte or Asian breakfast can be enjoyed at the property. Staff at the accommodation are available to provide advice at the 24-hour front desk. Miyukiji Temple is 1.3 km from DogoYaya, while Matsuyama castle is 2.3 km from the property. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 10 km from the hotel.
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- Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama
  Luxury
  
  Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama offers accommodation in Matsuyama near Matsuyama castle and Botchan Train Museum. Among the facilities of this property are a restaurant, a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage space, along with free WiFi. Private parking can be arranged at an extra charge. All guest rooms at the japanese-style business hotel feature air conditioning and a desk. A buffet breakfast is available every morning at Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama. Popular points of interest near the accommodation include Okaido Shopping Street, Yasaka Temple and Ishitegawa Park. The nearest airport is Matsuyama Airport, 8.5 km from Daiwa Roynet Hotel Matsuyama.
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