Rising above the city of Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s few remaining original castles, and arguably the most striking structure on the island of Shikoku. Built atop Mount Katsuyama, it offers panoramic views of the city below and the Seto Inland Sea beyond. With stone walls, wooden gates, and a fully climbable main keep, it’s a rare and authentic example of Edo-period military architecture.

Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a casual traveler, or just looking to enjoy a peaceful walk with a spectacular view, Matsuyama Castle is a must-see on your Shikoku journey.

Want to explore this iconic castle along with Dogo Onsen and the city’s best local spots? Our tours offer curated experiences with English-speaking guides.

What Makes Matsuyama Worth Visiting?

Matsuyama offers the perfect blend of tradition, history, and slow-paced charm. It’s a compact yet culturally rich city where you can stroll between a historic castle, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, and literary landmarks—all within a short tram ride.
Here’s what makes Matsuyama truly special:

• 🏯 Matsuyama Castle: One of only 12 original castles left in Japan, perched high above the city.
• ♨️ Dogo Onsen: A 1,000-year-old hot spring experience just a short ride away.
• 📚 Botchan Connections: The setting of Natsume Soseki’s famous novel adds a literary layer to the town.
• 🚋 Streetcar City: Easy-to-use trams connect major sights, giving visitors a retro travel experience.

I spent a weekend here and loved how I could visit a castle in the morning, soak in a hot spring in the afternoon, and walk through a literary-themed arcade at night. Everything felt close—and cozy.

Is Matsuyama Castle Original?

Yes—Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s twelve remaining original castles, known as genzon tenshu (現存天守). While many Japanese castles were rebuilt in modern materials, the main keep of Matsuyama Castle was reconstructed in 1854 using traditional wooden architecture, and has remained intact ever since.
Originally constructed in 1603 by feudal lord Kato Yoshiaki, the castle has endured fires, war, and natural disasters. Today, you can walk through the same wooden interiors, steep staircases, and stone corridors that samurai once used over 150 years ago. In addition to the central keep, many of the gates, turrets, and stone walls from the Edo period also survive, making the entire mountaintop compound a rare and valuable historical site.

How to Reach Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle sits atop Mount Katsuyama, but getting there is easier than you might expect. Visitors can choose between a relaxing ride or a scenic hike:

Ropeway & Lift (Recommended)

• From Okaido Station (on the Iyotetsu streetcar line), it’s a 5-minute walk to the Ropeway Station.
• The ropeway or chair lift takes you halfway up the mountain.
• From there, it’s about a 10-minute uphill walk to reach the main keep.

👉 The ropeway runs every 10 minutes, and the chair lift operates continuously.
👉 Combo tickets for round-trip rides and castle entry are available at the base station.

Hiking Route

Feeling adventurous? You can also hike up the well-marked trails from the base of the mountain.

• Takes about 20–30 minutes depending on pace.
• Great way to enjoy the natural setting and stone walls.

I took the ropeway up and walked back down through the forest path—it was quiet, shady, and full of birdsong. A perfect mix of comfort and nature!

Visit to Matsuyama Castle

I visited Matsuyama Castle on a sunny spring morning, taking the ropeway up from Okaido. The ride was short but scenic—you get a great view of the town and castle walls rising through the trees.

Once I reached the top, I was surprised by how much of the castle remains: real wooden gates, steep steps, even old turret buildings. Inside the main keep, I climbed all the way to the top floor where the windows opened to sweeping views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.

The stairs were steeper than I expected, but I loved the creaking floorboards and the cool shadows inside. There were samurai helmets and armor on display, and a staff member explained that some of the beams were original.

After exploring, I sat on a bench near the courtyard, sipping a bottle of mikan juice I’d bought from a stall. Sakura petals were floating in the breeze. It was the kind of moment that makes you pause and smile for no reason.

Want to cycle across islands, bridges, and endless sea views? Welcome to the Shimanami Kaido — Japan’s most scenic cycling route.

Stretching around 70 kilometers, this incredible path connects Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture to Imabari in Ehime, hopping across six small islands via beautifully engineered suspension bridges. Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a peaceful, sea breeze-filled ride, the Shimanami Kaido offers a unique way to explore rural Japan at your own pace. With dedicated bike lanes, friendly locals, and rental stations along the way, it’s no wonder this route has become a favorite for domestic and international travelers alike.

→Want to include the Shimanami Kaido in your Japan adventure? Our tours cover Onomichi, nearby islands, and more—great for beginners and casual riders too.

What is the Shimanami Kaido?

The Shimanami Kaido is a scenic 70-kilometer cycling route that connects Onomichi (Hiroshima Prefecture) with Imabari (Ehime Prefecture) via a series of six islands across the Seto Inland Sea. What makes this route unique is its dedicated cycling path, which runs alongside a series of majestic bridges—each one offering breathtaking views of the sea, ships, and scattered islands. Cyclists can enjoy quiet coastal roads, citrus orchards, beaches, and local culture at a slow, enjoyable pace.
There are rental bike stations throughout the route, and you can start or finish on any island—making it beginner-friendly and flexible. Whether you ride the entire route in one day or spread it out over two with an overnight stay, it’s one of the best ways to explore Japan off the beaten path.

The Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge at the southern end is the world’s longest suspension bridge structure for bicycles and pedestrians!

Highlights Along the Shimanami Kaido

Cycling the Shimanami Kaido isn’t just about the ride—it’s about what you’ll discover along the way. Each island offers its own charm, from local food to hidden temples and sea views.

Mukaishima (向島)

The first island after leaving Onomichi via the ferry.

• Known for peaceful rural scenery and citrus farming
• Great for a warm-up ride before tackling the main bridges
• Don’t miss: Small local bakeries and coastal photo spots

Innoshima (因島)

Famous for pirate legends and scenic coastlines.

• Features the Innoshima Suigun Castle and a pirate-themed park
• Enjoy quiet beaches and citrus-based sweets like mikan jelly and lemon candies

Ikuchijima (生口島)

A blend of art, nature, and citrus farming.

• Visit Kosanjō-ji Temple with its unique sculptures
• Check out the Hirayama Ikuo Art Museum, founded by the famous landscape artist
• Known as “lemon island” — lemon ice cream and fresh lemon juice are local favorites

Ōmishima (大三島)

The spiritual heart of the route.

• Home to the revered Ōyamazumi Shrine, which houses samurai armor and ancient trees
• A popular rest stop for cyclists thanks to its scenic coastline and hot spring nearby

Hakatajima (伯方島)

A tranquil island best known for Hakata salt.

• Beautiful seawalls and low-traffic roads make it perfect for a quiet break
• Fewer tourists, more time to enjoy the slow island life

Ōshima (大島)

The final island before reaching Imabari.

• Cross the stunning Kurushima-Kaikyō Bridge, one of the longest suspension bridge systems in the world
• Offers some of the most breathtaking ocean views of the entire route
• Hilly terrain, but the reward is well worth it

Our Experience on the Shimanami Kaido

Day1

I took the Shinkansen from Shin-Yokohama around 8.30 am and arrived in Onomichi around noon (with one train switch in Fukuyama). Before starting a tour of Onomichi city, I tasted the local ramen from Onomichi (尾道ラーメン) which broth is made with small fish with an added taste of soy sauce. It has a mild flavor and it was really delicious.

Since the Middle Ages, the city of Onomichi has prospered as a port and because of its wealth, many temples have been built in the city. Today, Onomichi City is known as a temple city. So I visited the major temples: Senkoji (千光寺), Taisanji (大山寺), Jodoji (浄土時), and Saikokuji (西國寺). Each temple is not very large but they are all well maintained. The views from each temple of the inland sea are magnificent.

In the evening, we tried oysters: Hiroshima Prefecture is known for its oyster farming. It was delicious.

Day2

Let the cycling begin! We took the ferry to Mukaishima Island around 10 am. You can of course get on the ferry with your bike. We crossed Mukaishima and passed by beaches. We were very surprised by the clarity of the seawater in this area. Arriving at Innoshima Island, we climbed Shiratakiyama Mountain and enjoyed the 360-degree panorama from the top.

As the weather was nice, the sea reflected the blue color of the sky and it was really pleasant. It was quite tiring to climb more than 200 meters, but it was worth it to go up to see this beautiful landscape. After a lunch break at a local restaurant on Innoshima Island, we went on our way to the final destination of the day, Omishima Island! In Iguchijima, we passed in front of the Kosanji temple (unfortunately, we didn’t have time to visit it) and laid down for a bit on Setoda Sun Set Beach.

Arriving at Omishima Island, before sunset, we went to visit the Oyamazumi shrine. It is a sober sanctuary and the 2600 years old camphor tree is imposing. We arrived at the hotel around 4 pm. We spent the night in a hotel for cyclists called WAKKA. In this hotel, you can bring your bicycle into the room and hang it on the wall. It is located at the edge of the sea and there is a great view of Tatara -Ohashi Bridge and the place is pleasant and beautiful.

Day3

We woke up at sunrise. After breakfast, we left around 9 am to the direction of Tatara-Ohashi bridge because as an exception we could climb to the top of the bridge pier (normally it is closed to the public). We really had an amazing view from the top. While passing by the island of Hakata, we arrived at the last island before Imabari.

As I wanted to see the Kurushima Strait from the observatory, we made the effort to go up the 308m high mountain by bike. It was tiring but the splendid view of the observatory made us forget the tiredness. Before crossing the Kurushima Kaikyo Ohashi bridge, we took a short break at the foot of the bridge. The Tatara Kaikyo Ohashi Bridge is about 4km long. This day there was no wind and we could cross it within about 20 minutes.

We arrived at Imari station around 3 pm, and we returned the bikes. To relieve our tiredness, we decided to go to the spa Dogo Onsen, about 40 min by train. After 2 days of travel by bike, it felt like paradise to take a bath in the onsen hot springs.

History of Dogo Onsen

Several legends about this thermal station exist in the history of Japan. Here is a short version of a few of them:

The ancient legend of the white heron; a wounded white heron accidentally found the hot springs erupting from large stones. He came here every day, and after a while, his wound healed and he left in great shape. The inhabitants were surprised to see this wounded white heron leaving in such a great shape. Hence, they also decided to take a bath, and alas, they recovered from their fatigue. They also recovered from their illnesses after bathing in the hot springs.

Ever since it is said that the spa resort of Dogo was first found by this white heron. At Hojo-en square in front of Dogo Onsen station, there is a rock with the footprints of this white heron preserved to pass this legend on to future generations. We can find small depictions of the white heron on the facade of the main building of Dogo Onsen (道後温泉本館) and also on its roof.

Imperial Visits

The Shinto legend of the round stone: Shinto deity Okuni Nushi no Mikoto (worshipped at the Izumo Shrine in Shimane Prefecture) came to Dogo. He came with another deity, Sukuna Hikona no Mikoto, who was suffering from an illness. Okuni Nushi no Mikoto warmed Sukuna Hikona no Mikoto with the hot water from the springs, the latter then recovered his strength and danced on a rock. This rock is called the “Round Stone” and is worshipped north of the main building of Dogo Onsen.

The Shinto gods were not the only VIP visitors; it is said that Prince Shotoku Taishi visited the Dogo Onsen Spa in 596 and greatly appreciated the quality of the hot water. Since then, several emperors have come here to enjoy this feeling.

Start of Commercial Use

In 1635, the lord of this region, Matsudaira, founded the establishments to manage this spa, which was already famous throughout Japan. He created various baths for nobles, monks, and common women and men. This was the beginning of the public paying to enter baths in Dogo Onsen. Nowadays, there are several public baths including Dogo Onsen Honkan and ryokan with hot springs that welcome visitors.

Dogo Onsen Building Honkan (道後温泉本館), the main building of Dogo Onsen, is considered the symbol of this spa town. In 1894, the main building of Dogo Onsen Honkan (public bath) was renovated thanks to the decision by the mayor of Dogo Onsen, Isaniwa Yukiya. AIn 1994, this building was the first bathhouse to be designated as an important cultural asset.

Layout of the Spa

The Dogo Onsen Honkan is composed of 4 buildings that were built in different eras.

Main building Kami no Yu (神の湯本館棟); This 3-story building built in 1894 has the Kami no Yu bath. The 2nd and 3rd floors serve as resting rooms. The entrance to Dogo Onsen Honkan is located on the 1st floor of this building. On the wall of Kami no Yu, we can appreciate the white heron design made of porcelain from Tobe (砥部焼), a typical handicraft of Ehime prefecture.

Yushin-den (又神殿) and Tama no Yu (霊の湯); This building, constructed in 1899, is divided in 2 parts on the inside. The Yushin-den part is reserved for the imperial family: it is the only public bath that has a bathtub reserved for the imperial family. The last imperial visit was in 1952. Now we can visit with a guide (currently closed to the public due to renovations). The Tama no Yu part is open to the public so they can bathe in another kind of bathtub than Kami no Yu.

Minami building (南棟); This building, constructed in 1924, has Kami no Yu for women. The original bath is currently closed to the public due to restoration work, so Kami no Yu for women is now temporarily moved.

Main entrance (玄関棟);  This building was constructed in 1924 to connect the main Kami no Yu building and the Minami building.

Local Gastronomy of Dogo Onsen

Rice garnished with sea bream (鯛釜飯) and ramen with sea bream (鯛ラーメン) are typical dishes in this area.
In the prefecture of Ehime, sea bream farming is very active. We can find several dishes using sea bream. If you want to taste sea bream at its most fresh, we recommend you to try sashimi.

There are also different kinds of local citrus fruits. In Shikoku Island, the climate is generally mild so the climate is very suitable for growing citrus fruits. Now there are up to 50 different varieties. You can taste them as fruit, juice and also in pastries.

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations like Dogo Onsen. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Access

About 20 min by streetcar from Matsuyama Station
(Matsuyama is 1h30 from Tokyo by plane)

Dogo Onsen Area Map

Uwajima Castle

Uwajima Castle is one of the 12 original castles built during the feudal era. The castle was constructed on an 80 meter-high hill by feudal lord Todo Takatora, who was regarded as a castle building master in 1601. In 1615 Date Hidemune, the son of strong feudal lord Date Masamune who governed the northern part of Japan, became the lord of the area by the order of the Tokugawa Shogun. His son made a big restoration of the castle in the 1660s. The castle hasn’t changed since then.

To enter the castle, you have to go up the 80-meter hill, but the view from the hilltop is amazing. You can look over the beautiful Uwajima Bay from there.

Tensha-en Garden

The Tensha-en Garden was built as a retirement palace for the Date family in 1692 by the second feudal lord of Date, Munetoshi. Then in 1866, the seventh Date, Munenori made the garden that you see today. It is a typical Japanese garden called a ‘pond strolling garden’. It is especially beautiful in the wisteria and iris season and admired by many local people. The Date Museum where you can see the history and the collection of the family is next to the garden.

Uwajima Pearl Industry

Regarding pearl production in Japan, the Shima area in Mie Prefecture is famous because of Mikimoto Pearl. But in fact, Uwajima is producing the most cultured pearls in Japan. There are about 300 pearl oyster farmers in the area. Some farmers give demonstrations on how they make cultured pearls, and you may see the moment that they extract a fresh pearl from an oyster. You can buy their pearl products at the shops or directly from some of the farmers.

Bullfights

You can see traditional sumo bullfights, a traditional 300-year-old event in Uwajima. The events are held five times a year, even today. Bulls weighing about one-ton butt against each other in a 20-meter-diameter ring in a domed bullfight arena. The bulls fight until one loses its fighting spirit.

Of course, animal welfare is a point that deserves attention. The bulls are well taken care of in their daily life, and they only fight a few times per year. It is not a fight to the death either, as the fight is decided once one bull gives up.

Information

Access: 1.5 hours by the express train from Matsuyama (Capital city of Ehime Prefecture)

Uwajima Area Map

Matsuyama Castle

To get to Matsuyama castle, you can first take a 6-minutes ride on a ropeway. A lift taking you to the mountain top of 131-meter-high Mt. Katsuyama where the ridge has been leveled will make it easy to go further up. From the terminal of the lift, there is an ascending path to the castle and its tower. The main keep of the castle is one of the only 12 original ones built in Japan during the feudal time.

The first castle was constructed here in 1602 by Kato Yoshiakira, but the owner changed a few times by the order of the Tokugawa Shogunate. The main keep you can see today was a reconstruction by the 12th lord of Matsudaira in 1854. If you go up the steep wooden stairway to the top floor in the castle tower, you will get a panoramic view that includes Mt. Ishizuchi and the Sea of Iyo.

Dogo Hot Spring

In the late 19th century, a quaint wooden public hot spring building was constructed. A bathroom dedicated to only the Imperial Family was added, which is a unique place in Japan and you can visit it now. Around the public hot spring, there are many hotels. It is interesting to see that many hotel guests go to the public hot spring even though each hotel has its own one, and hotels encourage it. Therefore many people stroll around town in the evening, and shopping streets nearby are busy until late.

It is said that people started to bathe after watching a white egret curing its wound with the gushing hot water a long time ago. Dogo Hot Spring appeared in a history book written in the 8th century, so it is regarded as the oldest hot spring. Later, many Emperors and Imperial Family members visited this hot spring, and Dogo became a famous hot spring town.

Ishiteji Temple

Shikoku is known as an island of pilgrimage. There are 88 Buddhist temples related to Kobodaishi, the founder of the Shingon sect. It is said that if you visit all the 88 temples and then visit Koyasan in Wakayama Prefecture, your wish will come true. Nowadays, many people visit these temples using cars or tour buses, but about 5,000 people still go on foot as people did in the past. The total distance is more than 1,200 km and it will take 40 days if you walk 30 km per day. Because they wear traditional white clothes, pilgrims are very easy to recognize.

Ishiteji temple is the 51st temple on the pilgrimage route and has an especially beautiful gate. Also, having many smaller attractions on the grounds, this temple is certainly worth a visit!

Your Japan Tour

As seasoned Japan experts, we create perfect Japan package tours including destinations like Matsuyama. Check out our group tours and private tours, or contact us to start planning your unforgettable holiday to this fascinating country. Japan is full of once-in-a-lifetime experiences, culture, history, nature, and delicious food!

Matsuyama Information

Access: If you go to Matsuyama from Tokyo, take Shinkansen (Bullet train) to Okayama (3.5 hours), then take the express train to Matsuyama (2.5 hours)

Matsuyama Area Map