When visiting Matsuyama in Ehime, of course you have to check out the famous Dōgo Onsen Honkan! It is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs and one of Matsuyama’s most iconic attractions. The most eye-catching feature is this three-story wooden building, which has a very distinctive exterior. It becomes even more atmospheric in the evening when the lights come on, and it’s truly beautiful!
It is also said to be one of the inspirations for Yubaba’s bathhouse in Spirited Away, so it’s no wonder it feels like stepping into an animated world! It also has deep ties to Natsume Sōseki’s novel Botchan.
Inside Dōgo Onsen Honkan are baths such as Kami-no-Yu and Tama-no-Yu. You can buy a ticket to enjoy the hot springs, but quite a few people were already in line when I visited in the evening. If you want to bathe, I recommend checking the available bathing plans and wait times in advance.
Across from the main building is Dōgo Shopping Arcade, where you can browse plenty of food and souvenirs, including Ehime citrus products, orange desserts, and Imabari towels. It’s really hard to resist shopping as you walk along. Nearby, you’ll also find Dōgo Onsen Station, the Botchan Clock, the Botchan Train, footbaths, and Dogo Park, so you can visit them all together.
Even if you’re not planning to bathe, I still highly recommend coming here for a walk and some photos while taking in the atmosphere of an old Japanese hot spring town. It’s a worthwhile stop to include on a trip to Shikoku!
