Be sure to read the Special Notes further down this page for important requirements and restriction.

WHAT YOU VISIT
Matsuyama Castle
Perched high atop 433-foot-tall Mt. Katsuyama, the 17th century castle was once the power seat for the Matsudaira Clan, who ruled this area during the Edo period. Originally constructed between 1602 and 1628, the castle is one of Japan's twelve originally surviving castles, although it burnt down twice, once in 1642 and again in 1784 after being struck by lightning. The structure you see today dates from 1854 and houses a museum filled with weaponry, calligraphy and art. Enclosed by four gates and stone walls, the donjon is an Important Cultural Property.

Ishiteji temple
Matsuyama's most famous temple sits on the 1,100-year-old Shikoku Pilgrimage Route, a series of 88 temples believed to represent the 88 evils that tempt mankind. The sprawling temple compound boasts several halls and temple buildings, a three-storied pagoda, various statues and a unique inner temple connected to the main grounds via a cave. Its Niomon Gate is a Designated National Treasure and the main hall and pagoda are Designated Important Cultural Properties. A treasure house displays some of the temple's most important artifacts.

Dogo Onsen
With a history stretching back over 1,000 years, Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot spring in the country. The area is popular with tourists for its beautiful 19th century bathhouse. It's also been a frequent destination for Japan's Imperial Family.

PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
Matsuyama Castle's steep hilltop location is accessible by a cable car; the ride up offers phenomenal views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.

LUNCH
Enjoy an authentic Japanese lunch at a local restaurant.

WHAT YOU SEE ALONG THE WAY
As you make your way through a cityscape of bustling streets and freeways, it may be interesting to note that the area was once the headquarters of the important the Matsudaira Clan during Japan's feudal era (1185–1867).