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!
