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Matsuyama cityscape

Visit Matsuyama, Japan

Visit Matsuyama, Japan

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On the northwestern corner of Shikoku Island lies its largest and most interesting city, Matsuyama.

Boasting an impressive castle, the excellent hot spring resort of Dogo and lying within easy reach of the island's highest mountain, Ishizuchi-san (1,982 m), Matsuyama has attractions enough for everyone.

The town has grown up gradually around the castle (constructed in 1602 on Katsuyama Hill in the town center) and though the center is modern, having been largely destroyed during the war, and is now expanding rapidly, it retains the relaxed atmosphere of a much smaller town.

Around Matsuyama

A 30-minute bus ride from the Shieki-mae Station takes you to the ports of Matsuyama and Takahama, from where numerous ferry and hydrofoil services run toward the mainland, including the quick one-hour hydrofoil over to Hiroshima.

Just outside of the main town is the Dogo Onsen Spa area, where we often recommend our clients stay to experience a proper Japanese-style resort. As well as a number of splendid traditional onsen bath houses, Dogo is a home to a beautiful shrine, the Isaniwa-jinja, and a small but interesting art gallery.

Get to Dogo by tram from Matsuyama town center.

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Start planning your tailor-made trip to Matsuyama by contacting one of our Japan specialists

Suggested itinerary featuring Matsuyama

This sample itinerary will give you an idea of what is possible when you travel in Matsuyama, and showcases routes we know work particularly well. Treat this as inspiration, because your trip will be created uniquely by one of our specialists.

Map of Matsuyama

Places & hotels on the map

    Places near Matsuyama

    Photos of Matsuyama

    Matsuyama Castle
    Matsuyama Castle
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge
    Matsuyama Castle
    Matsuyama Castle
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge
    Matsuyama Castle
    Matsuyama Castle
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge
    Shikoku Suspension Bridge

    Accommodation choices for Matsuyama

    We've selected a range of accommodation options for when you visit Matsuyama. Our choices usually come recommended for their character, facilities and service or location. Our specialists always aim to suggest properties that match your preferences.