Ehime
Shikoku
Known for Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen (Japan's oldest hot spring), and Ozu's castle town.
Capital
Matsuyama
Best Time to Visit
Spring (April) for Matsuyama Castle cherry blossoms; autumn for cycling the Shimanami Kaido; year-round for Dogo Onsen.
Getting There
From Osaka, Limited Express + ferry (4h) or fly to Matsuyama Airport (1h). From Hiroshima, the Shimanami Kaido cycling route is the scenic overland option.
Top Highlights
Dogo Onsen
Japan's oldest hot spring, referenced in the Manyoshu poetry anthology (1,300 years old). The Victorian-style bathhouse inspired the bath house in "Spirited Away."
Matsuyama Castle
Magnificent original castle on a hilltop above the city, accessible by ropeway, with 21 of its original buildings intact.
Shimanami Kaido
Japan's most scenic cycling route linking Honshu and Shikoku across six islands on the Seto Inland Sea via 70km of dedicated cycle paths.
Ozu Castle Town
Beautifully preserved castle town with traditional merchant houses, cormorant fishing, and one of Shikoku's finest regional castles.
Local Cuisine
Tai-meshi (Sea Bream Rice)
Whole sea bream cooked with rice in seasoned broth until the fish falls apart, mixing into the rice — a coastal Ehime celebration dish.
Jakoten
Small fried fish cake made from ground local fish with the bones left in for texture and calcium — an Uwajima regional specialty.
Ehime Citrus
Ehime produces 20% of Japan's mandarin oranges (mikan). Premium varieties like Iyokan and Setoka are best eaten November to March.
Stay Connected in Ehime
Yesim eSIMs activate on arrival — no SIM swap needed. Japan data plans from $5.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Shimanami Kaido cycle route take?+
The full 70km route from Onomichi (Hiroshima) to Imabari (Ehime) typically takes 6–8 hours at a leisurely pace. Rental bikes are available at both ends and every island along the way.
No experiences listed yet for Ehime.
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