Matsuyama Travel Guide

Shikoku's largest city is also arguably its most interesting. Home to one of Japan's finest original castles, Matsuyama is also contiguous with the relaxed and historic spa town of Dogo. Much of Japan's haiku poetry originated in this city, a lot courtesy of the famous poet Masaoka Shiki.

The magnificent Matsuyama-jo should be at the top of any visitor's itinerary. Originally dating from the early 17th century, it has been rebuilt and/or renovated some five times since it's foundation. The present form dates from 1854 (the reconstruction took some 34 years!) after having been struck by lightning and burnt down in 1784. Both a cable car and chairlift are available for quick access to its mountain-top location, but it is possible to hike up as well. The Shinto shrine of Shinonome-jinja sits on the east side of the castle's hill, which hosts torch-lit Noh performances during April's Takagi festival. The tranquil gardens of the Ninomaru Shiseki Teien are found on the site of the former Ninomaru (outer palace), along the western slope of the hill. A Japanese sweet and powdered green tea are available for ¥300 from the gardens' teahouse.

In the eastern suburbs of Matsuyama is the resort area of Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's most famous hot springs. Although home to some notably seedy nightlife (as in most Japanese onsen areas), it offers a pleasant and historic area to soak up the thermal waters and enjoy oneself. The old bathhouse of Dogo Onsen Honkan is the most rustically picturesque in the area and well worth a visit.

Matsuyama also offers easy access to Mt. Ishizuchi, Shikoku's largest mountain, which is within an hour's bus ride.