Dogo Onsen Station
Dogo Onsen Station of the Iyo Railway city tram is the closest station to the famous "Dogo Onsen", believed to be Japan's oldest hot spring.
The Botchan train stopping here is really distinctive. It feels very touristy in a fun way, and it’s also really cute.
Botchan Karakuri Clock
To commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Dogo Onsen Honkan (main building), this mechanical clock was built in 1994 at the Hojoen Garden, located in front of the Dogo Onsen tram station. From 8 am to 10 pm, every hour (and every 30 minutes on weekends, holidays, during the months of March, April, August, and November, during Golden Week, and over New Year's), the clock performs to its music, giving a vibrant welcome to those visiting Dogo Onsen.
When the time comes, the whole clock tower opens up and little figures come out to perform. It’s really fun to watch.
Dogo Shotengai (Dogo Haikara Dori)
Nicknamed “Dogo Haikara Dori”, the Dogo Shotengai is a shopping arcade connected to Dogo Onsen Honkan. At 250-meters in length, this L-shaped shopping arcade connects the stretch from the main building of Dogo Onsen to Dogo Onsen Station, the final stop on the Iyotetsu train lines.
This is pretty much a place you’re bound to pass through when visiting Dogo Onsen. It’s not especially stunning, but it’s fun to walk around.
Kikugetsutei Teahouse
Ritsurin Garden, designated as a Special Place of Scenic Beauty, boasts nearly 400 years of history and is the largest cultural heritage garden in Japan at approximately 75 hectares. With lush Mt. Shiun as its backdrop, the garden features six ponds and thirteen artificial hills, offering constantly changing views as visitors stroll through this prominent example of a daimyo strolling garden.
The exterior looks very elegant, with that classic Japanese teahouse style. The building blends beautifully with nature, and the overall atmosphere feels especially relaxing.