3-Day Ultimate Itinerary of Matsuyama: Hot Springs, Heritage, and Hidden Charms

Day 1 – Dōgo Onsen

Stay at Hotel Tsubakikan (classic ryokan vibe, private baths, near Dōgo Onsen).
Evening stroll in Dōgo district – yukata-clad visitors, cozy cafés, retro shopping arcades.
Soak at Dōgo Onsen Honkan, Japan’s oldest bathhouse.
Dinner: Iyo beef sukiyaki + seasonal Seto Inland Sea seafood.

Day 2 – Day Trip to Uchiko

25 min train from Matsuyama.
Yōkaichi Old Town – white-walled merchant houses, Edo–Meiji charm.
Lunch in a soba shop or café inside a historic townhouse.
Explore Ishidatami's rice fields, or scenic Yuge Shrine.
Return to Matsuyama → relax in hot springs, end with local sake tasting.

Day 3 – Castle & Culture

Morning ropeway to Matsuyama Castle – original keep, panoramic Seto views.
Stop at Bansuisō Villa (French-style mansion) or follow the Haiku trail of poet Masaoka Shiki.

Lunch: Tai-meshi (sea bream rice) + fresh mikan juice.

🍴 Food to Try:

Tai-meshi (松山鯛めし) – regional signature.
Iyo beef – rich, tender.
Botchan dango – colorful sweet skewers.
Mikan – Ehime’s pride.
Local sake – crisp & seafood-friendly.

#japan #historicallandmarks #localguides #shikokutravel

Post by Traveling Les | Aug 28, 2025