All Reviews of Botchan Ressha Train

The Botchan Ressha Train is a famous sightseeing train in Matsuyama, Japan. Its retro steam locomotive design evokes the nostalgic atmosphere of the Meiji era, and it is also connected to Natsume Soseki's novel Botchan. The train currently operates mainly on Saturdays, Sundays, and national holidays, with about eight trips per day between Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama City Station, JR Matsuyama Station, and other stops. You can enjoy views of the Matsuyama cityscape while riding, making it a very unique travel experience.

You have to time it just right, otherwise you can only look at it and not ride it. Because of our schedule, we could only take the regular train.

This steam train has a strong retro vibe from the Meiji era. It even whistles as it runs! If you're in Matsuyama, you can't miss the Botchan Ressha.

I recommend getting the combo ticket: one ride on the Botchan Ressha, round-trip on the Matsuyama Castle ropeway, entry to the castle tower, and the Ninomaru historical site. It's just 1,700 JPY, which is a great deal! The Botchan Ressha is super popular and tickets often sell out. There are only 8 to 10 runs a day.