Matsuyama’s Dogo Onsen and castle, the Shimanami Kaido island route, and the old town of Uchiko.
Matsuyama is Shikoku’s largest city, with an airport and trams. Imabari is the Shikoku end of the Shimanami Kaido.
JapaLens editorial guide · Read in about 5 minutesDogo Onsen Honkan is a wooden public bathhouse said to have inspired scenes in Spirited Away; it reopened fully in 2024 after renovation. Matsuyama Castle, an original keep, stands on a hill reached by ropeway.
Trams, including the Botchan Ressha steam-style train, connect Matsuyama city and Dogo.
Read this area guide →The Shimanami Kaido links Imabari and Onomichi via six islands and seven bridges, with a dedicated cycle lane. Imabari is also known for its towels.
The full route is about 70 km; many riders cover part of it and return by bus or ferry.
Read this area guide →Uchiko prospered from wax production; its Yokaichi street keeps merchant houses, and the Uchiko-za is a working kabuki theatre from 1916.
Limited expresses from Matsuyama take about 25 minutes.
Read this area guide →An editorial route idea, not a timed tour. Adjust it for weather, opening days and your walking pace.
Matsuyama Castle by ropeway.
Tai-meshi sea bream rice.
Tram to Dogo; walk the arcade.
Bath at Dogo Onsen Honkan and stay nearby.
Try tai-meshi, mikan citrus and juice, jakoten fish cakes and Imabari yakitori.
Stay in Dogo Onsen for ryokan or central Matsuyama for hotels; Imabari suits cyclists.
Matsuyama Airport has domestic and some international flights. JR limited expresses run to Okayama and Takamatsu; trams cover the city.
