All Reviews of Dogo Onsen Station

If you're visiting Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture, you should definitely stop by Dogo Onsen Station! It's considered the gateway to Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs. The station building has a charming retro style, and the warm yellow lights at night create a lot of atmosphere. It's especially beautiful for photos after dark.

There are quite a few attractions near the station, including the well-known Botchan Karakuri Clock, where character dolls come out to perform on the hour. However, after seeing it in person, I thought the performance was just okay and not as exciting as I had imagined. There's a performance every 30 minutes. The lights look beautiful at night, but it's harder to see the details of the dolls, especially the ones inside the top level.

Also, if you want to ride the retro Botchan Train, be sure to check its operating schedule first. I didn't see it running on the weekday when I visited, so anyone interested should check the schedule in advance to avoid making a wasted trip.

At Dogo Onsen Station, you can also see both old and new streetcars. I personally especially like the older cars, particularly their wooden interiors, which are full of nostalgia. The mechanical sounds are more noticeable while they're running, but riding them has a charm of its own. If you're more concerned about comfort, the newer cars are probably a better choice.

Besides soaking in the hot springs, I also recommend stopping by the station when visiting Dogo Onsen. It has a different kind of beauty during the day and at night, and lets you experience Matsuyama's unique retro atmosphere!

Stepping out of Dogo Onsen Station, the first thing that caught my eye was the cute, retro Botchan Train. It felt as if I had suddenly stepped into the Meiji era depicted by Natsume Soseki. Built in 1895, Dogo Onsen Station has a classic wooden exterior and serves as an important gateway to the Dogo Onsen district. The plaza in front of the station also features attractions such as the Botchan Train and Botchan Clock, creating a nostalgic atmosphere. The Botchan Train currently operates only at certain times on specific holidays, so it’s a good idea to check the schedule when planning your trip〜

If you come to Matsuyama, be sure to take the train to Dogo Onsen Station and explore! Known as the gateway to Dogo Onsen, believed to be Japan's oldest hot spring, it's also a photogenic spot with a retro atmosphere. The eye-catching Botchan Train is parked nearby. Inspired by Natsume Soseki's novel Botchan, it became a classic symbol of Dogo because the novel's protagonist rode it. After exploring the station, head straight to the Dogo Onsen shopping street, where you'll find souvenirs, food, and desserts. It's a charming place to stroll and browse!

The Botchan train stopping here is really distinctive. It feels very touristy in a fun way, and it’s also really cute.

Dogo Onsen Station really takes convenience and retro beauty to the next level.

As the gateway to Japan’s oldest hot spring, this station is more than just a transportation hub. It’s a place that makes you want to slow down and take it all in.

The clock show in front of the station is really fun! Every hour, it draws a big crowd to watch.

There's an old steam locomotive on display right next to the station, which is a popular photo spot. The clock tower and retro streetcars in front of the station really make you feel like you've stepped back in time.

This hot spring is really popular. The water is a gentle alkaline type that's great for your skin. It's even called 'the beauty bath' because of its beauty benefits!

Besides soaking in the hot springs at Dogo Onsen Station, you can also stroll through the shopping street and enjoy tasty dishes like sea bream rice!