Things To Do
in Matsuyama
Matsuyama is a historic city located on the island of Shikoku in Japan. It is known for its well-preserved castle, which sits atop a hill overlooking the city and offers panoramic views. The city is also famous for its onsens (hot springs), where visitors can relax and rejuvenate.
Matsuyama is a cultural hub with traditional temples, gardens, and museums that showcase the rich heritage of the region.
- "Arigatou" - Thank you
- "Sumimasen" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "Konnichiwa" - Hello / Good afternoon
- "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" - Do you speak English?
- "Oishii" - Delicious
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $40 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $8 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to Matsuyama Castle, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the city. The castle grounds are perfect for a leisurely stroll amid cherry blossoms, if in season.
Head to Dogo Onsen, Japan's oldest hot spring, for a rejuvenating soak. After your bath, explore the surrounding streets filled with charming shops and local eateries.
Dine at a local izakaya and try some shikoku specialties like grilled seafood and udon. Enjoy a relaxing evening walking along the illuminated streets of Matsuyama.
Visit the Shiki Memorial Museum dedicated to the famous poet Masaoka Shiki. Learn about his life and contributions to Japanese literature while enjoying the serene garden.
Explore the ruins of the ancient castle in Matsuyama and discover the rich history of the area. Refresh yourself at a local café with traditional sweets after your tour.
Take a peaceful stroll around the nearby park and catch the sunset. End your day with a traditional kaiseki dinner at a restaurant specializing in local cuisine.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Rich cultural heritage with historic sites like Matsuyama Castle.
- Beautiful natural scenery, including nearby Dogo Onsen and Shimanami Kaido.
- Home to Japan's oldest hot spring, offering unique relaxation experiences.
- Vibrant local cuisine featuring fresh seafood and traditional dishes.
- Moderate climate, making it pleasant for outdoor activities year-round.
- Limited international connectivity, making travel to and from the city more challenging.
- Smaller metropolitan area compared to larger cities in Japan, which might limit certain amenities.
- Public transportation options may not be as extensive as in bigger cities.
- Potential for typhoons and natural disasters affecting the region.
- Some areas may have language barriers for non-Japanese speakers.
Best Activities in Matsuyama
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the historic Matsuyama Castle and its beautiful surrounding gardens.
Visit the famous Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs with a history dating back over a thousand years.
Take a tranquil walk through the beautiful Ishite-ji Temple, one of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Take a ferry to Katsura Island for hiking, beach activities, and beautiful scenery.
Places to Visit in Matsuyama
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers panoramic views of the city and the surrounding area.
Famous hot spring with traditional buildings and beautiful garden, great for photos.
Scenic temple with a peaceful atmosphere, especially picturesque during cherry blossom season.
Food in Matsuyama
Matsuyama Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A signature dish of Matsuyama, tai-meshi features tender sea bream served on a bed of seasoned rice, showcasing the region's fresh seafood. It's a must-try when visiting Matsuyama. Recommended restaurant: Taimeshi Yamanoue
Must-Try!
Jakoten, a deep-fried fish cake made from small fish and starch, is a beloved local snack in Matsuyama. Enjoy it at street food stalls or specialty shops around the city.
These colorful dumplings, named after Natsume Soseki's famous novel 'Botchan', are a popular traditional sweet treat in Matsuyama. Try them at Okaido Shopping Street or Matsuyama Castle.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This bustling street is a haven for street food enthusiasts, offering a wide array of local snacks and treats such as jakoten, botchan dango, and other regional specialties.
For a true taste of Matsuyama's vibrant food scene, head to Asu Market, where you can explore fresh produce, seafood, and local street food stalls offering a variety of delightful bites.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is customary to bow when greeting someone in Matsuyama, with the depth of the bow reflecting the level of respect for the individual.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it is important to remove your shoes at the entrance.
Respect for elders is highly valued in Matsuyama, and it is important to show deference and consideration towards older individuals.
Safety
Tipping in Matsuyama
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Matsuyama, Japan. In fact, it is often considered rude to tip at restaurants, hotels, or other service establishments.
Cash is the primary form of payment in Matsuyama, Japan, and credit cards are widely accepted in many establishments. It is important to carry sufficient cash, especially when visiting smaller shops or traditional establishments that may not accept cards.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Matsuyama for cherry blossom viewing and mild weather.
Warm and humid weather, good for visiting beaches and enjoying traditional summer festivals.
Ideal time for sightseeing, beautiful fall foliage, and comfortable temperatures.
Cool weather, perfect for hot spring visits, and Matsuyama's illuminations and winter events.
Matsuyama at Night
Hiking in Matsuyama
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful area known for its highland trails, featuring scenic views of the surrounding mountains and the lush landscape. Popular for both hiking and nature walks.
The highest peak in western Japan, Ishizuchi offers challenging trails and stunning panoramic views. A favorite spot for both beginners and experienced hikers.
Located near Matsuyama, it provides a moderate hiking experience with beautiful forest trails and a chance to see local flora and fauna.
While primarily a cycling route, Shimanami Kaido also offers hiking trails along the islands connecting Honshu and Shikoku, with breathtaking coastal views.
Features several walking trails that are suitable for families and casual hikers, surrounded by beautiful gardens and natural scenery.
Aiports
How to reach Matsuyama by plane.
Located in Osaka, Kansai International Airport is one of the main international airports serving the Kansai region and is approximately 160 km from Matsuyama.
Located in Okayama, this airport is about 140 km from Matsuyama and serves both domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 160 km from Matsuyama, Hiroshima Airport offers international flights as well as domestic services.
Located in Nagoya, approximately 230 km from Matsuyama, Centrair serves as a major gateway to international and domestic destinations.
Located in Fukuoka, this airport is about 280 km from Matsuyama and is one of the busiest airports in Japan, offering a large number of international flights.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group, comprising the native population of Japan.
Includes expatriates and foreign workers, representing a small but significant percentage.
A historical demographic group with roots in the Korean Peninsula, present in various capacities.
Comprises individuals of Chinese descent, which includes both long-term residents and new immigrants.
Includes individuals from other Asian countries outside of Japan, such as Vietnam, Thailand, and the Philippines.
Western expatriates and tourists representing countries like the USA, Canada, and several European nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Matsuyama, with many local teams and schools participating in leagues and tournaments.
Soccer has a strong following in Matsuyama, with numerous clubs for youth and adults, and local teams competing in regional leagues.
Tennis enjoys popularity in Matsuyama, with many public and private courts available for recreational play and competitions.
Running is a common activity in Matsuyama, with many residents participating in local marathons and fun runs.
Golf is popular in the area, with several golf courses and clubs attracting enthusiasts from Matsuyama and beyond.
Various forms of martial arts, including judo and karate, are practiced widely in Matsuyama, often in schools and dojos.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Matsuyama.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While Matsuyama's traditional cuisine heavily features seafood and meat, some restaurants and cafes offer vegetarian and vegan menu items. It's advisable to communicate dietary preferences clearly when ordering to ensure suitable options.
Locating dedicated gluten-free establishments in Matsuyama may pose a challenge. However, certain restaurants may accommodate gluten-free requests by customizing dishes based on individual dietary needs. Clear communication with the staff is crucial in such cases.