Understand

Matsuyama, the largest city on Shikoku with a population of 515,000, may appear sleepy compared to other cities of similar size on the Japanese mainland. However, don't be fooled by its peaceful nature. Nestled between majestic mountains and rivers, Matsuyama offers a unique charm that will captivate any visitor. At the heart of the city lies Matsuyama-shi Station, a bustling transportation hub that connects locals and tourists alike. From here, you can explore the city via trams, buses, and the private Iyotetsu train line. Just a short walk away is JR Matsuyama Station, conveniently accessible for further exploration. Matsuyama boasts a mild and temperate climate, making it a pleasant destination throughout the year. Summers are balmy, while late spring brings refreshing rainfall. Snow is a rare sight during winter. However, regardless of the season, Matsuyama's star attraction is Dogo Onsen. This historic public bathhouse, believed to be the oldest in Japan, welcomes hot spring enthusiasts from across the globe. Its steamy waters provide a rejuvenating experience, attracting both seasoned bathers and newcomers alike. In fact, Dogo Onsen was mentioned in the second oldest book of Japanese history, Nihon Shoki, further solidifying its significance. Yet, Matsuyama's cultural significance goes beyond hot springs. Renowned novelist Natsume Sseki lived and worked in Matsuyama as a teacher while writing his celebrated novel, Botchan. Although the town may not be portrayed favorably in the novel, Matsuyama proudly commemorates this connection through various events and displays. Additionally, Matsuyama was the hometown of Sseki's friend and mentor, Masaoka Shiki, a revered haiku master. Shiki's contributions to Japanese poetry revitalized the art form, embracing modern themes and reigniting its relevance within Japanese culture. Matsuyama's rich literary heritage spans centuries and continues to shine brightly. As one native proudly exclaims, while referring to the character from Botchan, "We don't have geisha – we have our own Madonna!"

Map & Climate

Popular Foods

Sushi: Sushi is a traditional Japanese dish consisting of vinegared rice served with various toppings, typically fish or seafood. The rice is usually accompanied by a small piece of nori (seaweed) and sometimes features a dab of wasabi, pickled ginger, or soy sauce. There are many variations, including nigiri (hand-pressed sushi), maki (rolled sushi), and sashimi (slices of raw fish).

Ramen: Ramen is a widely popular soup dish in Japan that includes Chinese-style wheat noodles served in a meat or fish-based broth. It is often garnished with ingredients such as pork, dried seaweed, menma (fermented soybean paste), scallions, and miso paste. The dish can be found in various styles, including tonkotsu (pork bone broth), shoyu (soy sauce broth), and miso.

Tempura: Tempura is a deep-fried dish where seafood, vegetables, or mushrooms are battered and then cooked in hot oil. The light, crispy batter turns golden brown and creates a contrast with the soft textures of the ingredients inside. Traditional tempura elements include shrimp, sweet potato, pumpkin, spinach, and green beans. It is typically served with a dipping sauce made from soy sauce, Mirin, and dashi.

Historical Appearance

Traditional Male Clothing

Traditional Female Clothing