wendy's Reviews Page 17/19

Bansuiso is a European-style villa tucked away at the foot of Matsuyama Castle, next to the Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum. Built in the early 20th century, its French Renaissance architecture incorporates Rococo elements, giving the entire estate an elegant and exotic atmosphere. The gardens are very well maintained, and it looks picturesque from every angle. It has also been used as a filming location for many Japanese TV dramas and movies. However, there aren't many exhibits inside, and aside from the beautiful stained-glass windows, there weren't as many surprises as I'd expected. Overall, it's still worth stopping by, and buying a ticket also gets you discount coupons for nearby shops, which is a pretty good deal!

Uwajima Castle is one of Japan's 12 surviving original castle towers and No. 83 on the list of Japan's Top 100 Castles! Although the small keep doesn't have much information on display, its old wooden structure is its most precious treasure. Walking on the floorboards and hearing them creak feels like sharing the same moment in time with people from long ago. The view from the top floor of the keep is also captivating! Even more surprising, admission is only JPY 200. There aren't many tourists or much of a commercial atmosphere, and it's as peaceful as a neighborhood park. Besides the keep, the stone walls are another major highlight. Anyone who enjoys exploring castles or studying stone walls should definitely take their time! I spent about 2 hours there and unexpectedly got so much out of it〜

When visiting Matsuyama in Shikoku, you absolutely can't miss Matsuyama Castle!

Known for its reputation as being "impregnable," it is also the most iconic symbol of Matsuyama City. There are 21 National Important Cultural Properties, including the castle keep. Once inside, it was even more impressive than I had imagined. The historic buildings and expansive views look great in every photo, and there weren't too many visitors, so it was very comfortable to explore. As I took in the castle scenery along the way, I couldn't help but exclaim, "It's so beautiful!" If you're traveling to Shikoku, Matsuyama Castle is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!

If you're in Matsuyama and enjoy historical stories, don't miss the Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum! Themed around Ryotaro Shiba's famous novel Clouds Over the Slope, its extensive exhibits introduce the lives of the Akiyama brothers and Shiki Masaoka, as well as the historical background of the Meiji era. The building itself is also very distinctive, and stepping inside feels like traveling through time! An NHK drama adaptation happened to be airing again recently, adding to the fun of visiting a filming-related site. I especially recommend joining the free guided tour of the surrounding area. The commentary is super informative, and afterward you'll really understand Matsuyama better〜Very worthwhile!

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!

After browsing the Dogo Onsen shopping street, it's about a 5-minute walk to Dogo Onsen Station! In front of the station, the Botchan Karakuri Clock puts on its hourly show right on time, with a steam train joining in. As soon as the music starts, the clock suddenly seems to come alive, with characters appearing one after another and its mechanisms opening up layer by layer. The whole plaza instantly turns into a little theater, making it hard not to stay until the end! Afterward, slowly walk back toward Dogo Onsen and keep browsing and shopping.

Dogo Shopping Arcade “Dogo Haikara Dori”

If you visit Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring, I really recommend staying overnight! After soaking in the hot spring, head straight to this lively L-shaped shopping arcade to enjoy food, shop for souvenirs, and browse unique little stores—you won’t want to go back to your hotel. It’s even more atmospheric when the lights come on at night. Take a leisurely stroll and soak up the charm of the old hot spring town. This is the right way to experience Dogo!

Dōgo Onsen Honkan is a must for a soak! This historic hot spring building makes you feel like you've traveled back in time as soon as you step inside.

For your first visit, I recommend the JPY 2,000 plan. Besides bathing in Kami-no-Yu and Tama-no-Yu, you can wear a yukata, enjoy a snack, hear about the history of Yushinden, and view cultural artifacts. But 60 minutes feels a little rushed. The two baths aren't close to each other, and you also need to allow time to change into your yukata and move between them.

The overall atmosphere is excellent. Soaking while taking in a century of history—this is the right way to experience Dōgo Onsen!

When you visit Matsuyama, don't just focus on Matsuyama Castle!

Near Dōgo Onsen, there's also the historic Yuzuki Castle Ruins.

This was once the residence of the Kōno clan and witnessed centuries of Iyo history. The castle buildings are long gone, but as you stroll through the park, you can still see earthen ramparts, stone walls, and traces of the old castle. Walking through the quiet greenery, it almost feels like you've slipped back into the Middle Ages.

The best part is that there are relatively few visitors, so the atmosphere is peaceful and pleasant. There's also a museum nearby where you can learn more about Yuzuki Castle's history and even collect a castle stamp and castle card!

If you're visiting Matsuyama, consider stopping by to discover this understated historical treasure hidden beneath the bustle of Matsuyama Castle.

Of course you have to eat bonito when you come to Kochi! This time, I made a special trip to Myojinmaru Main Branch to try their legendary straw-seared salted bonito tataki.

It's seared over straw right in front of you, giving it an incredible aroma. The outside is lightly charred while the inside is fresh and tender, and just a little salt makes it so delicious you can't stop eating! Even the sashimi was fresh, sweet, and delicious.

As expected, it was extremely popular during mealtime and almost completely full! Just imagine chatting with friends while eating bonito and having a few drinks—that's what makes traveling so enjoyable〜

Kochi bonito is seriously irresistible. No wonder you keep craving it after trying it! Next time I come to Kochi, I'll definitely visit again!