Awagin Bizan Ropeway | Review by 黃國棟

When visiting Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture, you absolutely shouldn't miss Matsuyama Castle, one of the city's iconic landmarks! Known for its strong defenses, Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan's surviving original castle keeps and one of Matsuyama's most representative historic castles. The entire castle has an imposing presence, and its traditional architecture combined with the surrounding scenery looks picturesque from every angle.

I really enjoyed my visit this time! It wasn't crowded, so I could stroll around leisurely and take photos at my own pace, enjoying the castle's magnificent beauty without having to squeeze through crowds. From the castle walls and keep to the historic architectural details, everything made me want to take a few more photos.

Compared with busy, crowded tourist attractions, this place has a greater sense of peace and relaxation, allowing you to fully appreciate the unique charm of a Japanese castle. If you're traveling to Shikoku, Matsuyama Castle is definitely worth adding to your itinerary!

When visiting Matsuyama in Ehime Prefecture, don't miss the KURURIN Ferris wheel on the 9th floor of the Iyotetsu Takashimaya department store! Although the Ferris wheel isn't very large, you can enjoy views of downtown Matsuyama from above. There are also very popular transparent gondolas where you can experience the feeling of floating in the air. If you enjoy taking photos, don't miss it!

Foreign visitors can show their passports to get a discounted fare of 500 JPY per person, which is quite affordable! The gondolas are compact and can seat 2 people on each side, making them ideal for two people to enjoy the view together.

I especially recommend riding around sunset! Through the large glass windows, you can watch the sun set and the sky slowly change from daytime to dusk, followed by the lights of downtown Matsuyama gradually coming on. You can enjoy both the sunset and the enchanting night view in one ride, which is really romantic.

After browsing the department store, consider coming up for a ride on the Ferris wheel. You can experience Matsuyama's cityscape from a different perspective and leave with wonderful memories of your trip!

On our trip to Tokushima, we made a special stop at Tokushima Family Land! It’s a small amusement park that’s great for families with children, surrounded by greenery and filled with a relaxed atmosphere.

The park isn’t very large, and the rides feel a bit dated. It’s not a big, thrilling theme park, but younger children can still find plenty to enjoy.

If you’re visiting with toddlers or elementary school children, you can stroll around at an easy pace, try some simple rides, and enjoy unhurried family time together. It lacks the excitement and flashiness of a large amusement park, but has a simple, nostalgic feel instead.

If you’re expecting a wide variety of new and modern attractions, you may find it a little ordinary. But if you happen to be traveling nearby with children and want somewhere they can simply have some fun, it’s still a good option!