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Offered languages
- Japanese
- English
This private tour is designed for travelers arriving in Matsuyama by cruise ship. We will pick you up at Matsuyama Port or hotels near the port and explore the city with a government-licensed, experienced multilingual guide and a private vehicle.
Matsuyama, the largest city in Shikoku, is famous for Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan's twelve surviving original castles, and for Dogo Onsen, one of the oldest and most celebrated hot springs in the country. Over this relaxed 6-hour tour, your guide introduces both the historic and modern sides of this charming castle town in Ehime.
Together you can choose 2-3 sites from your itinerary list, such as Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen Honkan, Ishite-ji Temple and the retro Dogo hot spring district with its Botchan steam train and lively shopping arcade. Because the tour is fully private and customizable, the day is built entirely around your interests, with no crowds and no rushing.
What's Included
Meeting and pickup
This private tour is a guided tour with a private vehicle designed for travelers coming to Matsuyama Port by cruise ships. Your guide and taxi will pick you up and drop you off at Matsuyama Port or hotels near the port.
The guide will be waiting with a name board.
Itinerary
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1
Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's twelve original castles, with its main keep still intact from the Edo period. Perched on a hilltop, it offers panoramic views over the city and the Seto Inland Sea. Your guide will share the castle's samurai history as you explore the gates and grounds.
40 minutes • Admission ticket free -
2
Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs, with over 3,000 years of history. The striking three-story wooden Honkan bathhouse is said to have inspired the bathhouse in the film Spirited Away. Your guide will introduce its history and architecture as you take in this iconic landmark.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
3Ishite-ji Temple
Ishite-ji is one of the most important temples on the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, founded in the 8th century. Its striking two-story gate, three-story pagoda and atmospheric grounds reward visitors with a real sense of Japan's living Buddhist traditions. Your guide will explain its history and pilgrimage significance.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free -
4Isaniwa Shrine
Isaniwa Shrine is a beautifully preserved vermilion shrine near Dogo Onsen, built in 1667 in the rare 'hachiman-zukuri' style and designated an Important Cultural Property. Reached by a sweeping stone staircase, it offers lovely views and a peaceful atmosphere. Your guide will explain its history and significance.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
5
Bansuiso is an elegant French-style villa built in 1922 by a local count who had studied in France. The oldest reinforced-concrete Western residence in Ehime, it is designated an Important Cultural Property and sits gracefully below Matsuyama Castle. Your guide will share stories of its aristocratic past.
20 minutes • Admission ticket free -
6
A short, scenic ride up Mt. Katsuyama to reach Matsuyama Castle. Travelers can choose the ropeway cabin or the single-seat chairlift, enjoying views over the city and greenery on the way up. It's a fun and relaxing way to begin the castle visit.
15 minutes • Admission ticket free -
7
Dogo Park sits on the site of the former Yuzuki Castle and is a relaxing green space close to Dogo Onsen. With seasonal cherry blossoms, an observation deck and remnants of the medieval castle, it is a pleasant spot for a stroll. Your guide will point out the historical highlights along the way.
25 minutes • Admission ticket free -
8
The retro Dogo Onsen Station is the gateway to the hot spring district, with its charming European-style wooden building, the historic Botchan steam train and the famous Botchan Karakuri mechanical clock nearby. The lively Dogo Haikara-dori shopping arcade stretches from here, perfect for browsing local crafts and snacks.
30 minutes • Admission ticket free
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
Additional info
- Specialized infant seats are available
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- Wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- There are only a limited number of car seats and booster seats. Rear-facing car seats are not available. You must contact us directly if you need them.
Tags
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Cancellation Policy
- For a full refund, you must cancel at least 24 hours before the experience’s start time.
- If you cancel less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time, the amount you paid will not be refunded.
- Any changes made less than 24 hours before the experience’s start time will not be accepted.
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance of the experience for a full refund.
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