Things To Do
in Iyo

Iyo, Japan, is a charming city located in Ehime Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. Known for its rich cultural heritage, Iyo is famous for producing high-quality sake and traditional crafts. The city offers a blend of stunning natural scenery, historical sites, and warm hospitality.

Visitors can enjoy the serene atmosphere while exploring local attractions and indulging in delicious cuisine.

Day Trips

Spend a day exploring around

day 1
Day 1: Cultural Exploration
morning
:

Start your day at the Iyo City Museum of History and Culture, where you can learn about the region's heritage and traditional crafts.

afternoon
:

Visit the historic Kameyama Park, known for its beautiful cherry blossoms in spring and serene walking paths.

evening
:

Dine at a local izakaya to experience the vibrant atmosphere and sample various Japanese dishes.

day 2
Day 2: Nature and Relaxation
morning
:

Take a stroll along the Iyo River and enjoy the picturesque views while observing local wildlife.

afternoon
:

Visit the nearby Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, for a relaxing soak.

evening
:

Enjoy a quiet dinner at a restaurant specializing in local seafood, ending your day with a taste of Iyo's culinary delights.

Cost Guide

Prices

ItemPrice
🍣Sushi Meal$15
🍜Ramen Bowl$8
Coffee$3
🍺Beer$5
🏨Hotel Night$70

Strengths and Weaknesses

  • Rich cultural heritage and local traditions.
  • Delicious local cuisine and fresh seafood.
  • Serene natural landscapes and outdoor activities.
  • Limited nightlife options compared to larger cities.
  • Less English signage and language barrier.
  • Can be difficult to navigate without a car.
  • "こんにちは" - Hello
  • "ありがとう" - Thank you
  • "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
  • "はい" - Yes
  • "いいえ" - No

Places to Visit in Iyo

Visit one of these nice places.

Kameyama Park

A picturesque park with cherry blossoms in spring and beautiful views of the surrounding landscape.

Dogo Onsen

The iconic hot spring with traditional architecture, perfect for capturing the essence of Japanese culture.

Iyo River

A serene river with scenic pathways, ideal for capturing sunsets and local wildlife.

Culinary Guide

Food in Iyo

Iyo offers a delightful culinary experience, with local specialties that reflect the region's agricultural richness and seafood bounty.

Iyo Famous Food

Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food

Iyo Soba

Thin buckwheat noodles served either hot or cold, often accompanied by a flavorful dipping sauce.

Must-Try!

Mikan

Sweet and juicy citrus fruits that are a local specialty, perfect for snacking.

Iyo Beef

High-quality beef known for its tenderness and rich flavor, often grilled or served as sashimi.

Food Markets

Explore local food markets

Iyo Market

A bustling market where you can find fresh produce, seafood, and local delicacies.

Street Food Stalls

Vendors selling popular street foods like yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) and takoyaki (octopus balls) during festivals.

Climate Guide

Weather

Iyo experiences a humid subtropical climate with four distinct seasons. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures often exceeding 30°C (86°F). Winters are mild and cool, averaging around 5°C (41°F), with occasional snowfall. Spring and autumn bring pleasant weather, making them ideal for outdoor activities.

How to Behave

Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior

Bow When Greeting

Bowing is a common way to greet and show respect, with the depth of the bow indicating the level of respect.

Remove Shoes Indoors

Always remove your shoes when entering someone’s home or certain traditional ryokans.

Use Two Hands When Giving or Receiving

Using both hands shows respect when giving or receiving items, especially business cards.

Safety Guide

Safety

Iyo is generally a safe city, with low crime rates. However, it's important to stay vigilant in crowded areas and keep an eye on personal belongings. In case of emergencies, familiarize yourself with local emergency numbers and services.

Tipping in Iyo

Ensure a smooth experience

Tipping Customs

Tipping is not customary in Japan and may even be considered rude; exceptional service is expected without additional gratuity.

Payment Methods

Cash is widely used, but credit cards are accepted in many places; it's advisable to carry cash, especially in smaller establishments.

Best Time to Visit

And what to expect in different seasons...

Spring

Expect mild temperatures and beautiful cherry blossoms, especially at Kameyama Park.

Summer

Warm and humid weather with occasional rain; perfect for enjoying local festivals.

Autumn

Cooler temperatures and stunning fall foliage, making it a great time for outdoor activities.

Winter

Chilly weather with occasional snowfall; ideal for visiting hot springs to warm up.

Nightlife Guide

Iyo at Night

Iyo's nightlife is more subdued compared to larger cities, with a selection of izakayas, karaoke bars, and pubs. Local bars offer a cozy atmosphere where you can enjoy drinks and engage in conversation with locals. For a more vibrant experience, consider visiting nearby Matsuyama, which has a lively nightlife scene with various entertainment options.

Hiking in Iyo

Immerse in an unforgettable hike.

Mount Ishizuchi Trail

This challenging hike offers stunning views from the peak of Shikoku's highest mountain, with trails suitable for experienced hikers.

Kumakogen Hiking Trails

A series of well-marked trails through lush forests and beautiful landscapes, perfect for hikers of various skill levels.

Airports

How to reach Iyo by plane.

Matsuyama Airport (MYJ)

Located approximately 30 minutes from Iyo, Matsuyama Airport offers domestic flights and some international connections, making it a convenient entry point for travelers.

Getting Around

Walkability

Iyo is relatively walkable, especially in the downtown area, where you can find many attractions, shops, and restaurants within walking distance. However, for some of the more scenic spots, public transportation or a bicycle may be necessary to explore the surrounding areas.

Demographics

Explore demographics in this area.

Elderly Population

Iyo has a significant elderly population, reflecting Japan's aging demographic. This group often engages in traditional activities and local festivals.

Young Families

There is a growing number of young families in Iyo, attracted by the city's peaceful environment and good schools.

Popular Sports

Explore popular sports in region.

Baseball

Baseball is a favorite pastime in Japan, with local teams drawing enthusiastic crowds. Many parks and schools have baseball fields.

Soccer

Soccer is also popular, with local clubs and schools actively participating in regional competitions.

Transportation

Traffic

Traffic in Iyo is generally light, making it easy to navigate by car or public transport. However, during peak times, especially around festivals, traffic can become congested. Public transportation, including buses and trains, is efficient and connects well to nearby cities.

Accomodations

Find the best place to stay when visiting Iyo.

Dietary Restrictions

Tips for restricted diets.

Vegetarian Options

While traditional Japanese cuisine includes fish and meat, many restaurants offer vegetarian dishes upon request.

Gluten-Free Options

Gluten-free soy sauce is available, and some restaurants can cater to gluten-free diets.

Health & Medical

Healthcare

Japan has a high standard of healthcare, with numerous hospitals and clinics available. Emergency services can be accessed by dialing 119, and many hospitals have English-speaking staff. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses during your stay.

Discover Japan

Read more in our Japan 2025 Travel Guide.

Japan Travel Guide