Things To Do
in Saijō
Saijō is a historic city in Ehime Prefecture known for its rich sake-brewing tradition. The town sits along the Kamo River, surrounded by gentle hills and rural scenery. Its atmospheric sake district features centuries-old warehouses and cozy taverns.
Visitors come for cultural heritage, intimate dining, and easy access to nearby coastal and mountain scenery.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the Saijō Historical Museum, where you can learn about the rich history of the region and its sake brewing traditions. Afterward, stroll through the charming streets lined with traditional wooden buildings that transport you back in time. Don’t forget to stop by a local bakery to enjoy a fresh melon bread while taking in the morning ambiance.
Head to the nearby Saijō sake brewery district, where you can take guided tours and taste some of the finest sake produced in the area. Engage with friendly local brewers who are passionate about their craft, and discover the intricate process of sake-making. For lunch, savor local delicacies at a restaurant that specializes in dishes made with sake.
As dusk falls, find a cozy spot in a traditional izakaya to enjoy a delightful dinner featuring seasonal ingredients and local sake. Engage with locals and fellow travelers as you share stories over delicious shared plates. After dinner, take a leisurely walk along the riverbanks, where you can enjoy the serene sounds of nature and the twinkling lights reflecting on the water.
Kick off your day with an early morning hike up Mount Kamegamori, which offers stunning panoramic views of the surrounding landscapes. The crisp mountain air and the chirping of birds make for an invigorating start to your day. Pack a hearty breakfast to enjoy at the summit, taking in the breathtaking vistas as you fuel up for the day ahead.
After descending, visit the nearby Shirotori Park, where you can admire the beautiful cherry blossoms if the season is right. Take a leisurely walk around the park’s trails or find a quiet spot for a picnic lunch surrounded by nature. Spend some time observing the local wildlife and enjoying the tranquil atmosphere.
As evening approaches, make your way to a local onsen to unwind after your hiking adventures. Soak in the natural hot springs with views of the surrounding mountains as the sun sets. After your rejuvenating experience, enjoy a traditional kaiseki dinner at the onsen, featuring multiple courses of expertly prepared local cuisine.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍜Inexpensive meal | $10-15 |
| 🏨Mid-range hotel (1 night) | $70-120 |
| ☕Coffee | $3-5 |
| 🚆Public transit day pass | $3-7 |
| 🍷Local sake tasting | $8-15 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Abundant sake culture and intimate tasting experiences
- Compact, walkable city with a scenic river setting
- Limited nightlife compared with larger cities
- Smaller scale of attractions may feel quiet to some travelers
- "こんにちは" - Hello
- "ありがとうございます" - Thank you
- "すみません" - Excuse me / I'm sorry
- "いくらですか？" - How much is it?
- "英語を話せますか？" - Do you speak English?
Places to Visit in Saijō
Visit one of these nice places.
Narrow streets lined with historic kura warehouses and sake barrels, perfect for atmospheric street photography.
A classic river crossing with warm light at dusk and reflections on calm water.
Traditional storehouses with wooden facades and tiled roofs that evoke the town’s brewing heritage.
A tranquil spot with stone steps, torii, and hanging lanterns framed by trees.
Food in Saijō
Saijō Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Fried fish cake made from small white fish, a regional specialty often enjoyed with crisp sake.
Must-Try!
Sea bream over seasoned rice, a comforting dish frequently served in local eateries.
Sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, a regional specialty that pairs nicely with sake.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A small local market near the station offering fresh seafood, pickles, and seasonal snacks.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
A light bow is common when meeting someone; a handshake is less typical for acquaintances.
Remove shoes when entering homes, some temples, and traditional inns; use provided slippers.
Carry small denomination cash for markets and small shops; cards are less common in some places.
Stand in line patiently and speak softly in public spaces.
Safety
Tipping in Saijō
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not customary in Japan; polite service is expected within standard pricing.
Cash is widely used, especially in markets. Credit cards are common in larger shops and hotels, but some small eateries may be cash-only. Contactless payments are increasingly available.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Hot and humid days with occasional showers; plan early-morning explorations and enjoy cooler sake cellars to beat the heat.
Mild weather and colorful foliage along riverbanks; excellent for photography walks and light hiking.
Cool to cold with occasional chilly winds; many breweries offer warm beverages and indoor tastings.
Pleasant temperatures and riverbank blossoms; great time for outdoor markets and temple visits.
Saijō at Night
Hiking in Saijō
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Shikoku’s highest peak with forested slopes; several day hikes with varying difficulty.
Scenic riverside trails ideal for easy walks and photography.
Airports
How to reach Saijō by plane.
Main regional airport for Ehime Prefecture with domestic flights and some international connections; access to Saijō by train and bus via Matsuyama.
Major airport serving the Chugoku region; longer transfer to Saijō but convenient for international connections.
Regional airport offering domestic flights; farther but used by some travelers via rail connections.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
A higher proportion of elderly residents, common in regional Japan; services and facilities often adapt to slower-paced rhythms.
Mix of local families and workers commuting to nearby cities like Matsuyama.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Very popular in schools and local leagues; see community games when visiting small towns.
Local clubs and school teams; matches sometimes held at municipal stadiums.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Saijō.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Vegetarian options are available at many spots; look for tofu, vegetables, and rice dishes. Ask for no fish-based dashi and confirm ingredients when ordering.