Matsuyama: Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen Honkan—A Retro Stroll Through the Hot Spring Town

A classic retro walking course that captures Matsuyama's highlights in one day—from Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's twelve remaining original towers, to the nostalgic Dogo Onsen Honkan. Board the cable car early to reach the summit of Katsuyama, explore the maze-like interior of the linked-tower castle structure, and take in the expansive views of the Matsuyama Plain and Seto Inland Sea from the top floor. After descending, spend quiet time in the Ninomaru Historic Garden. In the afternoon, ride the streetcar to Dogo, enjoy lunch and street food along Haikara Street, and visit Isaniwa Shrine with its bright red shrine buildings perched atop 135 stone steps. The course concludes with admiring the impressive wooden architecture of Dogo Onsen Honkan, a symbol of the hot spring town. This is the perfect classic course for first-time visitors to Matsuyama or anyone who wants to hit all the essential spots.