Matsuyama Travel Tips

Matsuyama (松山), the largest city on Shikoku and the capital of Ehime Prefecture, offers a captivating blend of historic charm, literary legacy, and scenic beauty. At the heart of the city rises Matsuyama-jō, one of Japan’s few remaining original hilltop castles. Perched atop Mount Katsuyama, the fortress rewards visitors with panoramic views of the city, the Seto Inland Sea, and the distant mountains of Honshu. Accessible via a scenic ropeway or a gentle hike, the castle’s wooden interiors and reconstructed watchtowers provide an immersive glimpse into feudal-era architecture and samurai heritage. The surrounding park is especially picturesque during cherry blossom season, when locals gather beneath the blooms for hanami picnics.

Matsuyama’s cultural identity is deeply intertwined with Natsume Sōseki’s beloved novel Botchan, which paints a vivid portrait of life during the Meiji era. The story’s legacy is visible throughout the city—from Botchan-themed trains and sweets to statues of its quirky characters—making Matsuyama a pilgrimage site for literature lovers. Just a short tram ride from the city center lies Dōgo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most storied hot springs. Its iconic main bathhouse, said to have inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away, welcomes guests with its ornate wooden façade, steaming waters, and tranquil ambiance. Visitors can put on yukata robes, stroll through the nearby shopping arcade, and immerse themselves in timeless bathing traditions that still captivate the soul.