Things to Do in Ehime Prefecture: Looking for a unique and off-the-beaten-path destination in Japan?
Look no further than Ehime Prefecture.
Located on the island of Shikoku, Ehime offers a wide range of activities and attractions that are perfect for travelers seeking a more authentic Japanese experience.
One of the top things to do in Ehime is to visit Matsuyama Castle, one of the most impressive castles in Japan.
Located in the heart of Matsuyama City, the castle offers stunning views of the surrounding area and provides a fascinating glimpse into Japan’s feudal past.
Another must-see attraction is Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, which is the inspiration behind the famous anime movie “Spirited Away.
If you’re looking for outdoor activities, Ehime also has plenty to offer.
The Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the longest suspension bridge in the world, offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and is a popular spot for bungee jumping and other extreme sports.
For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the Shimanami Kaido cycling route is a scenic and relaxing way to explore the region’s beautiful countryside.
Exploring Matsuyama
When it comes to exploring Matsuyama, there are a few must-visit places that you simply cannot miss.
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle is one of the most popular destinations in the city center of Matsuyama.
This historic site was built in 1603 and has been well-maintained ever since.
The castle tower is the main attraction here, and you can climb to the top for a stunning city view.
There is also a museum inside the castle that showcases the castle’s history and city.
If you’re driving, a parking lot is available near the castle.
Dogo Onsen
This is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
Many famous people, including Natsume Soseki, a famous Japanese writer, have visited Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan.
The onsen has been around for over 1,000 years and inspired the setting of the novel “Botchan” by Soseki.
You can easily reach the onsen by walking from Dogo Onsen Station.
The samurai used the hot spring during the rebellion against the Fujiwara Sumitomo clan.
And it inspired the bathhouse in the Ghibli movie Spirited Away.
Botchan Ressha
If you’re a fan of Natsume Soseki’s “Botchan,” then take a ride on the Botchan Ressha.
The train takes you on a scenic journey through Matsuyama and stops at various locations mentioned in the novel.
You can explore the city in a fun way as the train has images from the novel inside.
You can buy tickets at the station or online.
Overall, Matsuyama has a lot to offer visitors, and these three attractions are just the tip of the iceberg.
Discovering Uwajima
If you’re looking for a coastal city that offers a glimpse into feudal Japan, Uwajima is a great place to visit.
Here are two attractions you won’t want to miss:
Uwajima Castle
Uwajima Castle is one of the few castles in Japan that has retained its original keep building.
The castle tower is relatively small but offers a great view of the city.
The date Clan once ruled the castle, whose history in Uwajima spans 400 years. When
Three Museums of Uwajima
Uwajima is home to three museums that offer a glimpse into the city’s history and culture.
The first museum is the Date Museum, which focuses on the history of Uwajima and the Date Clan.
The second museum is the Uwajima Museum of Local History and Folklore, which showcases the city’s traditional crafts, such as swords and armour.
The third museum is the Uwajima Museum of Stone Statues, which displays various stone statues from around the city.
Visiting Imabari
If you’re looking for a unique adventure in Ehime prefecture, visiting Imabari is a must.
Kurushima Kaiyo Bridge
The Kurushima Kaiyo Bridge is a marvel of engineering and a must-see attraction for anyone visiting Imabari.
This bridge spans the Kurushima Strait, connecting the islands of Honshu and Shikoku.
You can walk or cycle across the bridge and enjoy stunning views of the surrounding islands and the Seto Inland Sea.
Don’t forget to bring your camera!
Shimanami Kaido
The Shimanami Kaido is a 60-kilometer cycling route that crosses nine bridges spanning the Seto Inland Sea to Hiroshima Prefecture.
This route is perfect for cyclists of all skill levels, and you can easily rent electric-assisted bicycles.
Along the way, you’ll pass through charming towns and villages, and have the opportunity to stop at points of interest and landmarks, such as the Oyamazumi Shrine and Imabari Castle.
Whether you’re an experienced cyclist or just looking for a unique way to explore Ehime prefecture, the Shimanami Kaido is an unforgettable experience.
So pack your bags, rent a bike, and get ready to explore the islands of the Seto Inland Sea.
Experiencing Uchiko
If you’re looking for a charming, historic town to explore in Ehime Prefecture, Uchiko should be on your list.
This small town is known for its well-preserved historic district, including the Yokaichi and Gokoku Quarters, which feature traditional merchants’ homes and museums.
One of the highlights of Uchiko is the Uchiko-za Kabuki Theater, which is a popular spot in the neighborhood.
This historic theatre was built in 1916 and restored to its original glory.
You can catch a performance or take a tour to learn more about the history of kabuki theatre in Japan.
Outdoor Activities in Ehime
You won’t be disappointed if you are looking for an exciting outdoor experience in Ehime prefecture.
There are plenty of activities, from hiking up mountains to exploring the Seto Inland Sea.
Here are some outdoor activities that you should consider adding to your trip itinerary.
Mt. Ishizuchi
Mt. Ishizuchi is the highest mountain in western Japan and is a popular hiking spot.
The mountain is known for its rugged terrain and spectacular views.
There are several trails to choose from, ranging from easy to difficult.
The most popular trail is the Omote course, which takes about 5-6 hours to complete round trip.
You will pass through forests, small hills, and rocky terrain along the way.
The view from the top is breathtaking, with panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and ocean.
If you don’t feel like hiking, you can take the ropeway to the top of the mountain.
The ropeway runs from April to November and offers a scenic ride with stunning mountain views and surrounding scenery.
Seto Inland Sea
The Seto Inland Sea is a beautiful body of water dotted with islands that offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities.
You can go kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, or take a boat tour to explore the islands.
The scenery is stunning, with crystal clear waters and beautiful coastal landscapes.
If you want a more relaxing experience, you can visit one of the many beaches along the coast.
The beaches are clean and well-maintained, with plenty of facilities for visitors.
Cultural Significance of Ehime
Ehime Prefecture has cultural significance and history.
Many shrines and temples are important to Japanese culture and religion.
Locals and tourists visit these shrines and temples, which have been around for centuries.
The Ishiteji Temple is one of the most famous shrines in Ehime Prefecture.
Kukai founded the temple in the 9th century.
Visitors meditate and reflect in the temple’s beautiful gardens.
A Samurai history
The Ochi Yoshikata clan ruled the region and were loyal to Minamoto Yoshinaka during the Genpei War.
Minamoto Yoritomo and his brother Minamoto Yoshitsune rose to power during this time.
Taira Shigemori built the Taisanji Temple in honour of his father Taira no Kiyomori.
The temple has beautiful architecture, and visitors can learn about the region’s history.
The Food
Taimeshi is the signature dish in Ehime.
It is a traditional dish made by cooking rice with seabream.
First, the entire sea bream is placed on top of the rice, then both are steamed together.
The result is a flavorful and aromatic meal that is enjoyed throughout the area.
Unwind
Finally, Ehime Prefecture is also known for its foot spas and incense.
Foot spas are a popular way for visitors to relax and unwind after a long day of sightseeing, and Ehime Prefecture has many spas that offer this service.
Incense is also an important part of Japanese culture, and visitors to Ehime Prefecture can learn about the different types of incense and their meanings at the local incense museum.
Travel Tips and Information
When planning your trip to Ehime prefecture, it is important to keep a few things in mind to ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Here are some tips and information to keep in mind:
Getting Around
Public transportation systems in Ehime prefecture are reliable and efficient, making it easy to get around.
If you plan on taking the train, check the timetable beforehand to avoid any confusion.
Japanese Golden Week
If you plan on visiting Ehime prefecture during Japanese Golden Week (late April to early May), keep in mind that this is a busy travel time.
Book accommodations and transportation in advance to avoid any difficulties.
Yellow Sand Season
During the Yellow Sand Season (typically from March to May), the air in Ehime prefecture can become hazy and dusty due to sand and dust blowing in from China.
If you have respiratory issues, it is recommended that you take precautions, such as wearing a mask or staying indoors.
With these tips and information in mind, you can make the most of your trip to Ehime prefecture and have a memorable experience.
Before You Go
Like much of Shikoku, Ehime is well worth a visit to see what many others cannot.
Whether you see the cherry blossoms or experience the historic sites and tourist attractions mentioned above, I’m sure you’ll have a brilliant time.
