Ehime Prefecture Travel Guide 2026: Top Cities, Places to Visit & Itineraries | Trip.com

Ehime Prefecture

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Onomichi: A Charming Seaside Escape to the Heart of Slow-Living Japan — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

Onomichi: A Charming Seaside Escape to the Heart of Slow-Living Japan

If you're seeking a side of Japan that's peaceful, simple, and full of slow-life charm, look no further than Onomichi. This small port town in Hiroshima Prefecture offers stunning views of the blue sea, houses nestled on hillsides, historic streets, and adorable cafes that invite you to pause and soak it all in. 🇯🇵💙 While it lacks the neon lights of Tokyo, Onomichi exudes a warm atmosphere that makes you want to wander slowly and appreciate the small things around you. 🌊 1. Take in the Serene Seto Inland Sea Onomichi sits right on the edge of the Seto Inland Sea, offering expansive views of calm waters, tiny islands, and ships passing quietly by. Stroll along the waterfront on a clear day, grab a cup of coffee, and just enjoy the scenery. It’s the perfect spot for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle and experience Japan at a slower pace. 🌤️ 🚲 2. Cycle the Shimanami Kaido One of the city's highlights is being the starting point for the Shimanami Kaido, a world-famous cycling route that connects various islands across the Seto Inland Sea to Imabari. Along the way, you’ll be treated to views of sapphire waters, massive bridges, and quaint coastal villages—perfect for nature lovers and adventurers alike. If you’re not up for the full trek, you can always just cycle certain sections for a more relaxed ride. 🚴‍♀️💚 🏡 3. Wander Through the Classic Old Town The true charm of Onomichi lies in its narrow alleys, old wooden houses, independent shops, and stairways that climb up the hillsides. As you walk, you might stumble upon a sweet shop, a hidden cafe, or a perfect photo spot without even trying. 📷 I recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes and letting yourself get lost; sometimes the most memorable places are found by accident. 🐈 4. Visit the Cozy "Cat Alley" Cat lovers shouldn't miss Neko no Hosomichi (Cat Alley), a tiny lane filled with cat-themed art, cafes, and adorable decorations. 🐾 The atmosphere here is unique and perfect for a photogenic walk. Just remember to be respectful and not disturb the local cats that live there. 🌸 5. Panoramic Views from Senkoji Park To see Onomichi from above, head up to Senkoji Park. You can either hike up the hill or take the ropeway to this famous lookout point. From the top, you can see the houses terraced along the slopes, the Seto Inland Sea, and the distant islands. If you visit in spring, you’ll be treated to beautiful cherry blossoms. 🌸 ☕ 6. Cute Cafes and Local Ramen When you need a break, stop by a small cafe for some coffee and dessert. Some are located in renovated old houses, offering a cozy, vintage vibe. Another must-try is Onomichi Ramen, a local specialty known for its soy sauce-based broth and unique use of pork fat. 🍜 Don't forget to pick up some snacks or drinks made from citrus fruits—a famous product of the Seto Inland Sea region—to take home as souvenirs. 🍋 🌷 7. When is the Best Time to Visit? 🌸 Spring: Ideal for walking and viewing cherry blossoms. ☀️ Summer: Great for cycling and enjoying the sea, though be prepared for the heat. 🍁 Autumn: Perfect weather for strolling and seeing the colors of nature. ❄️ Winter: Quiet and peaceful, great for exploring the old town and cozying up in cafes. If you enjoy mild weather and blooming flowers, spring is a particularly wonderful time to visit. 🚆 8. How to Get to Onomichi? You can take a train from major cities in the region, such as Hiroshima. Alternatively, take the Shinkansen to Fukuyama Station and transfer to a local train to Onomichi. If you plan to cycle the Shimanami Kaido, it’s best to arrange your bike rental and drop-off in advance. For a truly relaxed experience, I recommend staying overnight to enjoy the sea views at sunrise or sunset. 🚲 💗 Onomichi: The Small Town That Will Make You Fall in Love with Japan Onomichi is the perfect destination for those who love the sea, cycling, cute cafes, and the charm of old-world Japan. There’s no need to rush; just strolling by the sea, enjoying a bowl of ramen, and stopping at a local cafe can create lasting memories. 🩵🇯🇵 If you have the chance to visit Japan, be sure to put Onomichi on your itinerary! This little town might just make you fall in love with a simpler, warmer side of Japan. ✨

[Ehime, Matsuyama] A Destination Hotel Worth the Journey. — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

[Ehime, Matsuyama] A Destination Hotel Worth the Journey.

Setouchi Retreat Aonagi is a place I've dreamed of visiting for a long time. This boutique luxury hotel features just seven suites and was renovated from an art museum designed by the renowned architect Tadao Ando. Perched on a hill surrounded by nature, it offers a peaceful escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The space is a serene harmony of architecture, art, and nature. As soon as I stepped inside, it felt as though time itself had slowed down. Guests have exclusive access to the famous poolside through the Art Lounge. With sparkling wine and small treats provided, the lounge is the perfect spot to relax and soak in the stunning views and architectural elegance 🥂 Aonagi breathes new life into a building that once served as a public museum. Today, art pieces are still displayed throughout the hotel, creating the magical sensation of staying overnight inside a gallery 🖼️ · ---- With only seven rooms in total, the experience is incredibly intimate. I stayed in the Semi-Open-Air Hot Spring Suite, which boasts a panoramic view of the lush forest. The private hot spring in the room features a semi-outdoor design. I loved being able to relax in the spacious bathroom’s flat-bottomed soaking tub while gazing at the greenery. For breakfast, I enjoyed a traditional Japanese set menu highlighting seasonal ingredients from the Setouchi region. From the clay-pot-cooked rice grown in Ehime to the various local delicacies, every bite was exceptional—it was truly delicious! Though it rained on the second day, the weather only added to the cozy, secluded atmosphere of being tucked away in the woods. Next time, I hope to experience the flagship "THE AONAGI" suite. · ————— Setouchi Retreat Aonagi 📍Matsuyama, Ehime 🚗 50-minute drive from Matsuyama Airport · —————

A Solo Slow Trip to Ehime | From Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen to Shimonada Station. — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

A Solo Slow Trip to Ehime | From Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen to Shimonada Station.

For my first time in Ehime, I purposely kept my itinerary light. I wasn't in a rush to check off tourist spots or hurry from place to place. Instead, I took my time getting to know the city~ 📍Matsuyama Castle Riding the ropeway gently up the mountain, as the altitude gradually increased, the entire city of Matsuyama slowly came into view. Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's twelve surviving original castle keeps, and it still retains its profound historical charm today. Standing at the keep's observation deck and looking out, the city, the mountains, and the Seto Inland Sea weave together into a picturesque landscape~ 📍Dogo Onsen Strolling down the nostalgic hot spring street, the retro architecture, quirky little shops, and the faint scent of hot springs in the air all naturally made me slow my pace. Beyond the main street, I also wandered over to the Dogo Onsen Hachiman Shrine. Walking slowly up the long stone steps and passing through the torii gate, the surroundings suddenly fell completely silent~ 📍Shimonada Station Hopping on a coastal train from Matsuyama, I gazed out the window at the Seto Inland Sea the whole way. The train ride itself was incredibly therapeutic. I first learned about Shimonada Station through movies and photos. I watched a stunning sunset here~ If you enjoy traveling without a tight schedule, if you love walking and embrace the quiet, then I think you'll love Ehime too🍊

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A Classic Japanese Hot Spring Inn. — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

A Classic Japanese Hot Spring Inn.

I recently stayed at Yamatoya Honten, a historic inn in Dogo Onsen! ⁡ The first thing I was looking forward to was the large public bath♨️ ⁡ It features natural hot spring water drawn from the exact same source as Dogo Onsen! My skin felt incredibly soft and moisturized after soaking, making me want to jump back in over and over again💖 ⁡ The inn also offers plenty of wonderful amenities that really give you a taste of Ehime📝 ⁡ They have a faucet that literally dispenses mandarin orange juice when you turn it on—it was so much fun, I couldn't resist taking a video🍊 ⁡ For dinner, we had a traditional Kaiseki meal🐟 ⁡ Featuring fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and seasonal ingredients, every dish was beautifully presented. It was a truly special dinner that you can only experience at a ryokan🍽️ ⁡ The next morning's breakfast buffet was packed with local Ehime specialties and dishes made from regional ingredients. I definitely ended up eating way too much right from the start of the day😋 ⁡ The inn is perfectly located right in the heart of the historic hot spring town, just a short walk away from the Dogo Onsen Main Building🔜 ⁡ It was a fantastic hot spring inn where you can fully enjoy the baths, the food, and authentic Ehime hospitality♨️ ⁡ 📍 20-8 Dogo Yunomachi, Matsuyama, Ehime ⏰ Check-in 3:00 PM / Check-out 10:00 AM 🅿️ Available

Must-Visit Experiences in Ehime, Japan — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

Must-Visit Experiences in Ehime, Japan

Ehime Tabi - Nanyo Area in the Southwest of Ehime Prefecture · Gallery Cafe Kokemushiro (Seiyo City): Located near the Straw Mammoth spot, this cafe offers a unique ambiance. · Takamoi no Takamo (Ainan-cho): A scenic spot featuring cliffs over 100 meters high. · Straw Mammoth (Seiyo City): A countryside attraction showcasing a mammoth made of straw. · Townscape of Daizhou: A charming area with traditional architecture. · NIPPONIA HOTEL OJU TOKYO (OZU): A distributed hotel set within a historic cityscape. · Sada Hiroshi Rissolving Experience (Nishiuwa District): Engage in a traditional Sadaaki ripping experience. · Yokkaichi Gokoku Townscape (Uchiko-cho): Explore this picturesque area with fancy cafes perfect for a leisurely stroll. · Sweets and Utensils Miyaei (Uchiko-cho): A delightful spot for sweets and traditional utensils.

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A Quiet Afternoon in Matsuyama City — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

A Quiet Afternoon in Matsuyama City

Matsuyama, a small city where time flows gently, is neither Tokyo nor Osaka. It is the heart of Ehime Prefecture and is famous for Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs. When you visit, you'll find a place warmer and more charming than its name suggests, filled with simple, everyday life.✨ On a clear day, climb up to the Matsuyama Castle Observatory to take in a panoramic view of the city. The scenery, stretching all the way to the Seto Inland Sea, offers moments of pure relaxation. Riding the red Iyo Railway train for a leisurely tour around the city is also highly recommended. You'll feel like the protagonist of a Japanese anime as the train passes through the platforms.🧡 Whether for a short 1-night, 2-day trip or a longer 2-night, 3-day stay, Matsuyama is a must-visit for those who want to experience a tranquil day in Japan rather than the hustle and bustle of big cities. 📍Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan

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Healing Journey on the Secret Railway — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

Healing Journey on the Secret Railway

Check in at Ehime Prefecture's hidden train stations 🚉 A summer healing trip around Iyo City by local railway This niche railway line is perfect for photography! Looking out the window, you see the Seto Inland Sea, so blue it feels unreal. It's recommended to visit in the morning or evening when the sunlight is gentle and there are fewer people—every shot looks like a scene from a Japanese drama~ 📍Recommended itinerary: Day 1: 🚃 JR Shimonada Station - Known as "the station closest to the sea," the platform faces the Seto Inland Sea directly, offering a stunning view of islands floating on the water. It's best to take the Yosan Line from Matsuyama Station, about a 30-minute one-way trip. The station still preserves a retro wooden station building, especially beautiful at dusk. 🏘️ Iyo-Ozu - Continue west by JR for about 20 minutes. This area retains the atmosphere of an Edo-period castle town. Must-visit spots include Ozu Castle and the old townhouses along the Hiji River, where you can also experience handmade washi paper. Day 2: 🚞 Uchiko Town - Transfer to the Uchiko Line from Ozu Station for about 15 minutes. The entire old street is a designated important traditional architecture preservation district. The white-walled earthen storehouses in the Yokaichi Gokoku area are especially photogenic. It's recommended to watch a traditional puppet show at Uchikoza Theater and buy local wood wax products as souvenirs. Return to Shimonada Station in the evening, and don’t forget to buy a bottle of Ehime mikan soda at the shop in front of the station. Sit on the platform bench and watch the sunset to perfectly end this railway journey~ 🍊 Food recommendations: · Tangerine ice cream on Dogo Onsen Street · Chicken tempura in Ozu · Tsukudani (preserved food) in Uchiko Town 📸 Photo tips: 1. Wear light-colored clothes at Shimonada Station 2. Uchiko Town is perfect for kimono experiences 3. Preparing a railway pass will be more cost-effective

"Kondaya" is a renovated inn located in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture. — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

"Kondaya" is a renovated inn located in Ozu, Ehime Prefecture.

Grand opening of private lodging in June A rental lodging that was carefully renovated from a townhouse built in the Edo period and has a history of about 200 years🌿 Its value is so great that it is even featured in the Ozu City Museum It is a precious space that combines architectural beauty and cultural significance Even excluding the open-air bath, it is a spacious 101m2 structure with two bedrooms, a Western-style room and a Japanese-style room, and can accommodate up to 6 people, making it ideal for group trips🧳 Amid the profound history and sophisticated comfort, we spent a time surrounded by tranquility and healing while strolling through the castle town of Ozu🙂↔️✨ It was as if we had traveled back in time, and it has become one of the inns we definitely want to visit again🌿 · ----------------------- 🗝️Ozu Nodasho Ryokan "Kondaya" 📍Noda, Hirano-cho, Ozu City, Ehime Prefecture 3266-1 🚙1 hour drive from Matsuyama Airport 💰¥100,000/night · ----------------------- #EhimeTrip#OzuCity#Kondaya#Ryokan#ehime #HotelReview

[Ehime] A hotel with a spectacular view designed by a famous architect — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

[Ehime] A hotel with a spectacular view designed by a famous architect

Setouchi Retreat Aonagi is a hotel designed by Tadao Ando, ​​one of Japan's leading architects. This is a resort hotel with only 7 rooms, renovated from a building that was originally an art museum🏨 Located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, you can enjoy the natural scenery as well as the beauty of the concrete architecture✨ Even the sunlight shining through the hotel on a particularly fine day makes for beautiful photos. This hotel is famous for its infinity pool, which can be enjoyed only in the summer🏊♀️ Guests can also use the lounge, which is also an adult space where you can listen to music while enjoying a drink🫶 Both the food and the rooms are the best experiences, so this is a hotel you should visit as a reward for your daily life🏨 #ModernArchitecture #EhimeTourism

Take a boat across the river to visit Cat Island. — traveler post in Ehime Prefecture

Take a boat across the river to visit Cat Island.

Take a boat trip to Cat Island for a relaxing getaway in the laid-back province. Soak in one of the oldest onsens at Ehime (愛媛). Ehime Prefecture is located in the Shikoku region. The name 'Ehime' means 'lovely princess' in Japanese. This prefecture is not widely known yet, but it is indeed charming with its rich history and natural attractions. Famous local products include Iyo oranges and Buntan (pomelo), and it also boasts the oldest onsen in Japan. · How to get there You can travel from Thailand to Tokyo Airport, then take a domestic flight to Matsuyama Airport, which takes about 1 hour and 40 minutes. Alternatively, you can travel from Osaka by train, which takes about 4 and a half hours. Places of Interest · Matsuyama Castle (Matsuyama Castle) · Uchiko Town · Dogo Onsen · Omogo Gorge · Aoshima Island · Shimonada Station photo spot · Ozu Town · Garyu-Sanso Villa · Uwajima Castle · Shikoku Karst Trail · Shimanami Kaido Must-try Ehime Delicacies! · Awajima Tai-meshi (rice topped with raw sea bream) · Tai Somen (cold noodle dish with red sea bream topping) · Imabari Yakitori (juicy grilled chicken served on a plate, unlike the usual skewered style)

What people are saying about Ehime Prefecture

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Kirosan Observatory Park

This is one of the most spectacular spots on the Shimanami Kaido. The observation deck, designed by architect Kengo Kuma, is also worth a visit. From here, you can see the beautiful Seto Inland Sea islands, the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, and on a clear day, all the way to Mount Ishizuchi in the distance. In spring, the entire Kiro Mountain Observation Park is decorated with cherry blossoms, so it's a great place to combine a visit with cherry blossom viewing.

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Uwajima Castle

Uwajima Castle, like Matsuyama Castle, is a 100-year-old ancient castle in Japan. It is also a very beautiful attraction. In addition, the weather was very good when we came here. Uwajima Castle in autumn is really beautiful.

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Ozu Castle

Well renovated, easy to climb stairs, convenient parking nearby

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Universal Studios Japan

Overall the experience was good even thought it was a rainy day, a bit hard to explore the park and go into outdoor attractions. USJ very well organized. Super Mario is amazing as well as Donkey Kong area. You must ride the roller coaster over there. If you love zombies go in the last week of October, the atmosphere of the park is unique. It was worht the 104 USD. Avoid weekends. From Monday to Thursday is fine to enjoy.

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Ozu Castle

Well renovated, easy to climb stairs, convenient parking nearby

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Ehime Prefecture FAQ

What currency is used in Ehime Prefecture?

The standard currency in Ehime Prefecture is JPY

How do I exchange currency in Ehime Prefecture?

Current exchange rate approx.: TWD ≈4.8JPY (actual exchange rates depend on the bank). Currency exchange tips:
1. Exchange currency at your local bank before departure, as rates are usually better than at the destination.
2. You can also withdraw cash from local ATMs.
3. Avoid exchanging currency at airports or hotels, as they offer the worst rates.