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Ehime Prefecture is located in the northwest of Shikoku, an area known for its mild climate and the tranquil Seto Inland Sea.
One of its highlights, Dogo Onsen, is considered the oldest hot spring in Japan, offering both a historical and relaxing experience. The iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan building gives visitors a nostalgic feel, almost like stepping back in time.
From the top of Matsuyama Castle, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Matsuyama City and the Seto Inland Sea, making it a truly memorable experience. The Shimanami Kaido, a scenic route for cycling, lets you cross over the strait while taking in the breathtaking beauty of the sea and islands.
Additionally, Ehime is famous for its oranges, and you can indulge in a variety of fresh citrus-based sweets and juices.
With its rich history, beautiful nature, and delicious food, Ehime is the perfect place to unwind and enjoy a special time.
The “Saijo Festival” is a traditional event held every October in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture. It is a celebration that brings together the annual festivals of four shrines: Iso-no Shrine, Kamo Shrine, Iwaoka Shrine, and Iizumi Shrine. While the festival dates vary depending on the shrine, when people refer to the “Saijo Festival,” they typically mean the grandest event at Iso-no Shrine. The highlight of the festival is the breathtaking sight of about 150 gorgeous, colorful danjiri (festival floats), mikoshi (portable shrines), and taiko-dai (drum floats) parading through the city. A particularly magical moment takes place during the “Kawairi” ceremony at Iso-no Shrine, where around 80 danjiri line up along the banks of the Kamo River, creating a truly mesmerizing atmosphere that captivates visitors.
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“Matuyama Castle” is a hilltop castle located in Matsuyama City. Construction began in 1602 under the direction of Kato Yoshiaki and took about 25 years to complete. The main keep is situated at the top of Katsuyama Hill, 132 meters above sea level, making it one of the rare castles with an existing main keep, as there are only 12 in Japan today. From the top of the keep, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Matsuyama City and the Seto Inland Sea. The castle is also famous as a spot for cherry blossoms in spring.
Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, is Japan’s oldest hot spring area, with a history spanning around 3,000 years. It appears in ancient texts like the Kojiki and Nihon Shoki as “Iyo no Yu” and has been beloved by many prominent figures throughout history, including Prince Shotoku and Natsume Soseki. The iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan, a symbol of the area, was designated a National Important Cultural Property in 1994, becoming the first public bathhouse to receive this honor. Its majestic presence captivates anyone who lays eyes on it, leaving a lasting impression.
The “Shimanami Kaido” is a 60km-long road that connects Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture and Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture, linking a series of islands in the Seto Inland Sea with bridges. It was developed as Japan’s first dedicated bicycle path that crosses a strait, and is beloved by cycling enthusiasts as a “mecca for cyclists.” The route is dotted with stunning spots like the Tatara Bridge and Kameyoshiyama Observatory Park, offering breathtaking views of the beautiful Seto Inland Sea. It’s a perfect area for sightseeing, whether you’re driving or cycling.
Uchiko Town, located in the Kita District, is a town steeped in history and tradition. The “Yokaichi and Gokoku District,” which still retains the townscape from the Edo to Meiji periods, is designated as a National Important Preservation District for Groups of Historic Buildings. One of the highlights is the “Uchikoza,” a theater built during the Meiji era, which is still in use today. It offers visitors a chance to experience the atmosphere of that time. The town is also known for its thriving candle-making industry and the production of wax. It’s a great destination for anyone interested in exploring historical architecture and cultural experiences.
Uwajima Castle, located in Ehime Prefecture, is one of the 12 remaining castles in Japan with its original keep. It was originally built in 1601 by Todo Takatora and later became the residence of Date Hidemune. The current keep, reconstructed around 1666, still preserves its original appearance. From within the castle, you can enjoy a stunning panoramic view of Uwajima City and Uwajima Bay, making it a true historic gem.
“Mount Ishizuchi” stands at 1,982 meters and has long been a place of mountain worship. At the summit, you’ll find the Ishizuchi Shrine. There are various hiking routes available, from those using a ropeway to more challenging ones used for Shugendo practices, making it a great spot for both beginners and experienced climbers to enjoy.
Ozu City is a historic castle town located in the southern part of the Iyo region. Ozu Castle was dismantled during the Meiji period and was reconstructed in 2004. The city offers unique experiences like the ‘Samurai Experience,’ where you can dress as a warrior, and ‘Castle Stay,’ where you can spend the night inside the castle. Additionally, during the summer, you can watch the traditional cormorant fishing on the Hiji River.
Tobe Town is famous for its traditional craft, Tobe-yaki, which is known for its white porcelain with blue decorations. The town is home to around 80 pottery studios, and at the Tobe-yaki Tourism Center, “Hon-no-Sato,” visitors can enjoy experiences like handcrafting pottery and painting designs. The Tobe-yaki Festival, held in spring and autumn, is also a popular event.
Yahatahama City is a fishing town located at the base of the Sada Peninsula, known for its thriving fishing industry. At ‘Yahatahama Minatto,’ you can enjoy fresh seafood caught right from the Yahatahama Market, and at ‘Suwazaki,’ you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the Uwa Sea.
The Besshi Copper Mine is an old copper mine located in Niihama City, where mining took place for about 280 years. Today, it has been developed into a site called ‘Mointopia Besshi.’ The site is divided into two areas: Handatsu and Higashiohira. The Higashiohira area is particularly famous for its industrial ruins, which are often referred to as the ‘Machu Picchu of the East.’
Matsuyama Daiichi Taxi
As a member of the Daiichi Kotsu Sangyo Group, Matsuyama Daiichi Taxi offers a multilingual interpretation service. Through a dedicated interpretation center, drivers can assist passengers with communication while inside the taxi.
For more details, visit: [Multilingual Interpretation Service | Taxi | Top | Daiichi Kotsu Sangyo DAIICHI]
Shikoku Kotsu Co., Ltd.
English-speaking drivers are available. When requesting a taxi for sightseeing, please specify “English-speaking driver” to ensure availability. Reservations can be made through the company’s website.
Heart Transport Co., Ltd.
Actively welcoming inbound tourists. For estimates, planning, and other details, please contact us.
Morimatsu Kotsu
“Morimatsu Kotsu” offers taxi tours for inbound tourists, providing comfortable transportation in a minivan.
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