Matsuyama - Discovering Japan

Travelling to Matsuyama

In this page you can find every information for a holiday in Matsuyama, a pretty good destination in Japan (all info about the whole country here).
We will answer the most important questions: what to visit, when to go, how to get to Matsuyama and what means of transport to use to get around. We will describe typical foods, the costs for tourists and where to find accomodation. We will list also the places to see around Matsuyama, and we will also talk about safety and how each type of traveler can enjoy a trip here.
So, if you are travelling through Japan, here's everything to know about Matsuyama for a perfect holiday.

General info for a trip to Matsuyama

Matsuyama is a city located on the island of Shikoku in Japan. It is the capital city of the Ehime Prefecture and is well-known for its historic castle, hot springs, and scenic beauty. Matsuyama's most famous landmark is Matsuyama Castle, which is considered one of Japan's 12 original castles. The city is also home to the Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, which has a history dating back over 1,000 years. Matsuyama is a popular tourist destination, offering visitors a unique blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.

What to visit in Matsuyama

Matsuyama is a beautiful city located in the Ehime prefecture of Japan. Here are some of its famous tourist attractions: 1. Matsuyama Castle: This is one of the most famous attractions of Matsuyama. It is a castle that was built during the Edo period and is located on top of a hill. The castle offers beautiful views of the city and has a tea house inside.
2. Dogo Onsen: This is a hot spring that is said to have been in operation for over 1,000 years. It is also said to be the inspiration for the bathhouse in the movie "Spirited Away" and is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
3. Ishite-ji Temple: This is a beautiful temple located in the outskirts of Matsuyama. It is one of the 88 temples of Shikoku Pilgrimage, a famous pilgrimage route in Japan. The temple is known for its beautiful gardens and traditional architecture.
4. Shiki Memorial Museum: This is a museum dedicated to the famous Japanese author, Masaoka Shiki. The museum has a collection of his manuscripts, letters, and paintings. It is located in a beautiful setting overlooking the city.
5. Matsuyama Botanical Garden: This is a beautiful garden that has over 3,000 species of plants. It is a great place to go for a walk and relax.
Overall, Matsuyama is a city that is rich in culture, history, and nature. Its attractions offer a glimpse into the traditional Japanese way of life and provide a serene atmosphere for visitors to relax and unwind.
In this website, you can find many other destinations to visit in Japan, so you can have a look in the "USEFUL LINKS" sections in this page for other places that could inspire your trip.


You can find more information in this page dedicated to the top 10 attractions to visit in Matsuyama.

When to go on holiday to Matsuyama

The best time to visit Matsuyama is in the spring (March to May) or fall (September to November). During these seasons, the weather is mild and comfortable, and there are also lively festivals and cultural events that take place like the Matsuyama Spring Festival in April and the Dogo Autumn Festival in October. Summer (June to August) can be hot and humid, but it is a good time to enjoy outdoor activities and festivals. Winter (December to February) can be chilly, but visitors can still enjoy Matsuyama's beautiful hot springs and winter illuminations.

You can book here visit and activities to do during your holiday!

How to get to Matsuyama

There are a few ways to get to Matsuyama: 1. By plane - Matsuyama Airport is the closest airport to the city and is serviced by several domestic airlines.
2. By train - Matsuyama can be reached via train from major cities like Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto. You can take the Shinkansen bullet train to Okayama and then transfer to a local train to Matsuyama.
3. By ferry - Matsuyama also has a ferry port and is connected to cities like Hiroshima and Kure by ferry.
Once you arrive in Matsuyama, you can take public transportation like buses and trams to get around the city.
To find the most convenient flights, compare (and book if you like!) the best offers here on Skyscanner.
To hire a car to visit Matsuyama, I recommend to check this: COMPARE HERE ALL OFFERS FOR CAR RENTAL

Typical foods in Matsuyama

Sure, here are some typical Matsuyama foods with a brief description of each: 1. Botchan dango: This popular sweet treat consists of three dumplings of varying colors (pink, white, and green) that are skewered together and dipped in a sweet soy sauce glaze.
2. Jakoten: Made from minced fish and potato starch, jakoten is formed into small balls and deep-fried until crispy. It's often served as a snack or appetizer.
3. Iyo udon: This type of udon noodle is thinner and more delicate than other varieties, and is often served in a light broth with toppings such as tempura, scallions, and kamaboko (a type of fish cake).
4. Taimeshi: A specialty of Matsuyama, this dish features rice cooked with sea bream (tai) and flavored with dashi (a broth made from fish and seaweed) and soy sauce.
5. Botchan karē: Named after the famous novel "Botchan" by Natsume Soseki, this dish is a local version of Japanese curry made with vegetables, meat, and a sweet and spicy sauce.
6. Katsuo no tataki: This is a dish of seared bonito (a type of fish) that's thinly sliced and served with grated ginger and soy sauce. It's a popular appetizer or snack in Matsuyama. 7. Kankoro mochi: A sweet sticky rice cake topped with kinako (soybean flour) and brown sugar. This treat is often enjoyed during the New Year or as a souvenir from Matsuyama. I hope this helps you to plan your trip and taste some delicious Matsuyama specialties!
You can find general info about typical foods in Japan here.

Is Matsuyama an expensive destination for tourists?

Matsuyama, Japan can vary in price depending on the activities you plan to do and accommodations you choose. However, compared to other large cities in Japan such as Tokyo or Kyoto, Matsuyama is generally considered to be more affordable for tourists. Food and transportation in Matsuyama tend to be reasonably priced, while accommodations can range from budget-friendly to high-end depending on your preferences. Overall, while Matsuyama may not be the cheapest destination in Japan, it is more affordable than some of the larger, more tourist-driven cities.

Where to find accomodation in Matsuyama

In Matsuyama, the best areas to find accommodation for sightseeing are Dogo Onsen, the city center, and Matsuyama Castle area. Dogo Onsen is famous for its hot springs, which attract many tourists. This area offers a variety of ryokans (traditional Japanese inns) and hotels. The city center is well-connected by public transportation and has a wide range of dining options, shopping centers, and accommodations. Matsuyama Castle area offers a historical atmosphere with the beautiful Matsuyama Castle and the Ninomaru Historical Garden. This area has a few hostels and hotels to choose from.
You can check hotel prices at Matsuyama here:
Booking.com

Is Matsuyama a safe destination for tourists?

Yes, Matsuyama is generally considered a safe place for tourists. It has low crime rates, and the locals are known for their hospitality and friendliness towards visitors. However, it is important to exercise caution as you would in any other destination and take measures to protect your personal belongings, like keeping your belongings close to you and being mindful of your surroundings.
You can find general info about safety for tourists in Japan here. Always check updated government info about travelers's safety on the ufficial Foreign Affairs website of your government, before visiting Matsuyama.

What type of travelers will enjoy Matsuyama the most?

Matsuyama, Japan is a popular tourist destination for all types of travelers. However, couples and families may enjoy it the most because of its diverse attractions. Here are some reasons: 1. Matsuyama Castle - Perfect for history buffs and couples in search of a romantic place to explore.
2. Dogo Onsen - One of the oldest hot springs in Japan, it is perfect for relaxation and rejuvenation. Families and couples can enjoy a comfortable soak in the warm waters.
3. Shiki Memorial Museum - This museum is dedicated to the life of the famous Japanese poet Masaoka Shiki. It's a great destination for families and couples interested in Japanese literature.
4. Botchan Train - The train takes visitors around the city and offers great views. Young people and families will enjoy the experience.
5. Matsuyama City Station - A great place for shopping and dining, it's a fun activity for people of all ages.
Overall, Matsuyama has something for everyone, so all travelers can enjoy their time there.

How to get around Matsuyama

There are several transportation options to move around Matsuyama, Japan: 1. Tram: Matsuyama has a tram network consisting of six lines that connect different parts of the city.
2. Taxi: Taxis are widely available in Matsuyama. They are convenient but more expensive than other options.
3. Bicycle: Matsuyama is a bike-friendly city, and there are plenty of rental shops around that offer affordable rates.
4. Bus: There is a local bus network that operates throughout the city.
5. Walking: The city center is compact and walkable, so it is an excellent option if you want to explore the area at your own pace.

What to see around Matsuyama

Here are some nice places to visit in a day trip from Matsuyama: 1. Dogo Onsen: This is one of Japan's oldest hot springs and is known for its beautiful bathhouse.
2. Okudogo Ichiyajo Yokocho: This is a retro-style street that has unique shops and restaurants.
3. Matsuyama Castle: This is one of Japan's twelve original castles and is known for the stunning views it offers.
4. Ishite-ji Temple: This is one of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route and is known for its beautiful garden.
5. Tobe Pottery Village: This is a traditional pottery village with beautiful, hand-crafted pottery.
6. Shimanami Kaido: This is a scenic cycling route that connects the islands of Shikoku and Honshu.
7. Uchiko: This is a historic town with well-preserved traditional houses and is famous for its candle-making.
8. Iyo-ko: This is a large lake that is known for its beautiful scenery and is a great spot for outdoor activities like fishing and boating.
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