Overlooking the Seto Inland Sea, Matsuyama is the largest city on the Japanese island of Shikoku and serves as the vibrant capital of Ehime Prefecture. It’s home to the oldest existing bathhouse in the country and one of only 12 Japanese castles to have survived the post-feudal era.
Things to do in Matsuyama
Perched atop a hill in the heart of the city is Matsuyama Castle, which was built in 1603 and exhibits its original tenshu (tower). Now protected as a National Historic Site, it offers elevated views across the city and the Seto Inland Sea, as well as the 200 cherry trees that dot the castle grounds. Ride the chairlift that ascends Mount Katsuyama to explore the Ninomaru Garden, which preserves the layout of the historic castle palace.
One of Matsuyama’s most famous architectural landmarks is the Dōgo Onsen Honkan, a beautifully preserved bathhouse that dates back to the Meiji Period. Constructed from wood and elaborately decorated, it is believed to have inspired the bathhouse in the Hayao Miyazaki film "Spirited Away”. After bathing in its hot spring-fed pools, you can feast on sweet dumplings and tea.
If you’re a fan of poetry, don’t miss a visit to the Shiki Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the life and work of haiku poet Masaoka Shiki. In addition to exhibits about the history of literature in Matsuyama, there is a reconstruction of the antique home that Shiki shared with the Japanese novelist Sōseki Natsume.
Getting around Matsuyama
Matsuyama Airport is a 15-minute drive from the city centre and has flights to destinations across Japan. Regular trains connect to the Matsuyama City railway station while a network of buses and trams travel throughout the city. Ferries connect from Matsuyama to Hiroshima and the islands of the Kutsuna archipelago.