Things To Do
in Tōon
Tōon is a city located in the northeastern part of Ehime Prefecture in Japan. It is known for its beautiful natural scenery, with mountains, rivers, and coastal areas offering a range of recreational opportunities. The city is also famous for its agricultural products, particularly citrus fruits like mandarin oranges.
Tōon has a relaxed and peaceful atmosphere, making it a great destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat in nature.
- "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): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $2 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $30 - $70
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $80
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a peaceful walk at the Tōon City Park, enjoying the natural scenery. Don't forget to grab a traditional Japanese breakfast at a local café.
Visit the Tōon Art Museum and immerse yourself in local art and culture. Enjoy a lunch of fresh sushi at a nearby restaurant.
Stroll along the Nakamura River to experience the sunset over the water. Dine at a cozy izakaya and sample various Japanese dishes.
Hike up to Mount Katsuyama for stunning views of the surrounding landscape. Bring a packed lunch to enjoy at the top.
After descending, visit the Ao Yamabuki Garden for a peaceful afternoon amidst beautiful flowers. Take your time exploring the different garden sections.
Wrap up with a visit to a local onsen to relax your muscles after the hike. Enjoy a light dinner of yakitori at a nearby grill.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Tōon offers beautiful natural scenery, including mountains and rivers, making it ideal for outdoor activities like hiking and fishing.
- The region has a rich cultural heritage with traditional festivals and historical sites, providing a unique experience for visitors.
- Tōon is relatively less crowded compared to larger cities, allowing for a more relaxed and peaceful environment.
- The community in Tōon is known for its friendly and welcoming atmosphere, fostering a strong sense of local culture.
- Tōon's remote location may result in limited access to certain services and amenities compared to urban areas.
- Job opportunities might be fewer, leading to potential challenges for job seekers, especially in specialized fields.
- Transportation options can be limited, making it harder to travel outside the region without personal vehicles.
- With a smaller population, social and entertainment options may be limited compared to larger cities.
Best Activities in Tōon
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Embark on a hiking adventure at Mt. Ishizuchi, the highest peak in Western Japan, offering stunning views and diverse trails for hikers of all levels.
Enjoy a scenic cycling journey along the Yoshino River, exploring picturesque landscapes and charming local towns along the way.
Experience the thrill of observing whales in their natural habitat in the Seto Inland Sea, known for its rich marine biodiversity.
Immerse yourself in the natural beauty of Oboke and Koboke Gorges while trekking along the scenic trails and marveling at the dramatic rock formations.
Places to Visit in Tōon
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of the surrounding mountains and forests, especially during the autumn foliage season.
Provides breathtaking panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, including lush greenery in the summer and vibrant colors in the fall.
Known for its picturesque and tranquil setting, offering great photo opportunities of traditional Japanese ryokans and natural hot springs amidst beautiful wooded mountains.
Food in Tōon
Tōon Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
A special type of fish cake made with bamboo leaf and white fish paste, often served as a snack or appetizer. Best savored at local izakayas like Izakaya Hachimaru.
Must-Try!
A regional variation of ramen, featuring a rich and savory broth with firm, wavy noodles. One of the best spots to try Matsuyama Ramen is Ramen Akasaka.
A popular local dish made from small fish that are pureed and then deep-fried into a crispy, fragrant snack. You can find authentic Jakoten at stalls in the Tōon Fish Market.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
A bustling market offering a wide array of fresh seafood, including sashimi, grilled fish, and local specialties like Jakoten. Perfect for exploring and sampling a variety of street foods.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Tōon, it is important to show respect towards elders by using polite speech and gestures such as bowing.
When entering someone's home or certain traditional establishments, it is customary to remove your shoes as a sign of respect and cleanliness.
When dining in Tōon, it is important to practice proper table manners and show appreciation for the food and hospitality of the host.
Safety
Tipping in Tōon
Ensure a smooth experience
Tipping is not a common practice in Japan, including Tōon. It is generally not expected or required in restaurants, hotels, or other service industries. In fact, tipping may sometimes be considered rude or confusing to the recipient. Instead, customers are expected to receive high-quality service as part of the standard expectation.
In Tōon, as in the rest of Japan, cash is the most commonly accepted form of payment. While credit and debit cards are becoming more widely used, especially in larger establishments and tourist areas, it's still a good idea to have cash on hand for smaller or more traditional businesses. Mobile payments are also gaining popularity, allowing for convenient transactions through smartphone apps or digital wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to see cherry blossoms in full bloom and enjoy pleasant weather
Warm temperatures and opportunities for outdoor activities, but can be hot and humid
Beautiful fall foliage, comfortable temperatures, and traditional cultural festivals
Cold temperatures, chance of snow, and opportunities for winter sports in nearby mountains
Tōon at Night
Hiking in Tōon
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A beautiful plateau offering panoramic views, grassy fields, and hiking trails that connect to various mountains.
A popular hiking destination with a peak that resembles Mount Fuji, offering scenic vistas and challenging trails.
A local park featuring a variety of walking trails, suitable for casual hikes and nature walks.
Located to the northwest, this area offers a variety of hiking routes with varying degrees of difficulty and stunning views.
A scenic gorge known for its beautiful landscapes and foliage, with trails that are accessible for hikers of all levels.
Aiports
How to reach Tōon by plane.
The main international airport serving the Nagoya area, located on an island in Ise Bay.
An international airport located on a man-made island in Osaka Bay, serving the Kansai region including Osaka and Kobe.
Also known as Osaka International Airport, primarily serving domestic flights but has some international services.
One of the two primary airports serving the Greater Tokyo Area, located in Narita, Chiba.
The closest airport to downtown Tokyo, primarily serving domestic flights but with significant international traffic.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority of the population in Tōon, consisting primarily of native Japanese citizens.
A smaller, diverse group of expatriates and immigrants living in Tōon, contributing to the city's multicultural environment.
A significant demographic group in Tōon, reflecting the aging population trend seen in many parts of Japan.
Includes high school and university students, representing a vibrant and active part of the community.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Baseball is one of the most popular sports in Japan, with a rich history and a strong following in Tōon. Local teams participate in regional leagues, and the sport is celebrated with various local events.
Soccer has gained immense popularity in Japan, including Tōon, with local clubs and youth academies promoting the sport. The J-League has contributed to the growth of soccer's popularity.
Basketball is widely played in schools and parks throughout Tōon. Local competitions and community leagues provide opportunities for residents to engage in the sport.
Volleyball is a popular sport in Tōon, both at the recreational and competitive levels. Local schools often have volleyball teams, and there are community events that encourage participation.
Traditional martial arts such as Judo and Kendo are practiced in Tōon, reflecting Japan's rich cultural heritage. Many dojos offer classes for all ages.
With scenic routes and a focus on health and wellness, cycling is a popular recreational activity in Tōon. The region offers various trails for both competitive and leisure cycling.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Tōon.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Many restaurants and cafes in Tōon offer delicious vegetarian dishes, such as vegetable tempura, tofu-based meals, and fresh salads.
Visitors with a vegan diet can enjoy various plant-based dishes at eateries like Nijiya Market, where vegetable-focused meals are readily available.
Cafe & Bar Ginger is a notable establishment providing gluten-free desserts and snacks, making it a go-to for gluten-sensitive individuals.