Botchan Karakuri Clock | Review by 黃國棟

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Botchan Karakuri Clock

A mechanical clock where characters from the novel "Botchan" appear in tune with music.

26 Oct 2026 See More

When you visit the Dogo Onsen shopping arcade, don't forget to check out the interesting Botchan Karakuri Clock! This mechanical clock tower was built in 1994 to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the construction of Dogo Onsen Honkan. Its design is modeled after the main building, with a theme based on Natsume Soseki's novel Botchan, giving it a distinctly nostalgic Japanese atmosphere.

At scheduled times, the clock tower comes to life with cheerful music and the sound of taiko drums. The entire tower slowly rises to twice its original height, and then dolls depicting characters from the novel appear one after another and put on an entertaining performance in time with the music. It's as if the story from the book has come to life right before your eyes, which is pretty interesting!

During the day, you can clearly see the details of the mechanical clock, while the lighting creates a different atmosphere at night. There are seats nearby where you can rest and enjoy the performance, and it's also a good place to take commemorative photos.

Afterward, you can also browse the Dogo Onsen shopping arcade and visit Dogo Onsen Honkan, making the whole outing very convenient.

Other Reviews by 黃國棟

Dogo Milk Cheesecake

Dogo Milk Cheesecake is a specialty cheesecake shop in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture. It serves cheesecakes inspired by the taste of milk enjoyed after a hot bath. The cheese is handmade fresh every day in the workshop attached to the shop.
- Ehime
- Sweets Shop & Desserts Shop
26 Oct 2026 See More

While strolling around near Dogo Onsen, I happened to come across this dessert shop. It looked so tempting from the outside that I couldn't resist going in for a taste!

The shop specializes in milk cheesecakes made with local ingredients from Ehime Prefecture. Its signature “Whole Mandarin Orange Cheesecake” is especially popular.

This time, I tried several mandarin orange desserts. Mandarin orange ice cream〜 The mandarin flavor was very rich, refreshing, and full of fruity aroma.

Whole mandarin orange mochi: It was like eating an entire mandarin orange. Sweet, tart, and juicy, with a very unique texture.

Mandarin orange cheesecake: It combines mandarin oranges with milk cheese. The rich milky flavor is balanced by the gentle sweetness and slight tartness of the fruit. The two flavors complement each other perfectly without overpowering one another.

Each dessert has its own distinctive character. You can taste the natural sweetness and fragrance of Ehime mandarin oranges along with the rich milky flavor. Although the prices are a little high, it's still worth treating yourself while traveling once in a while!

There is also a seating area in the back of the shop. If you're tired from walking around, you can sit down, rest, enjoy some dessert, and recharge. It was also quieter and more comfortable than I expected.

When visiting Dogo Onsen, besides soaking in the hot springs and exploring the shopping street, don't forget to stop here for something sweet! If you like mandarin oranges and cheese desserts, you may want to add this shop to your list!
Starbucks Coffee Dogo Onsen Station Building

This Starbucks occupies the entire Dogo Onsen Station building on the Iyo Railway. The current station is the third-generation building, restored in 1986 based on the former station building constructed in 1911. It has long served as the gateway to Dogo Onsen, said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring. This distinctive location brings together a historic station building and a coffee shop.
- Ehime
- Cafés
26 Oct 2026 See More

When I arrived at Dogo Onsen, I found this Starbucks really distinctive! It’s right next to Dogo Onsen Station, with the entire station building turned into a Starbucks. The retro Western-style exterior fits in well with the atmosphere of Dogo Onsen’s old shopping streets, making it hard not to notice as you pass by.

There is seating on both the first and second floors, and the decor incorporates plenty of railroad elements. Even the tables have a distinctive design, making it different from a typical Starbucks. While sitting inside with a cup of coffee, you may also get to watch trains pass by through the windows, which really adds to the feeling of being on a trip.

Although the shop isn’t very large, the overall setting has a lot of character, and outdoor seating is also available. It’s a great place to take a break and have a cup of coffee before or after exploring the Dogo Onsen shopping arcade or visiting Dogo Onsen Honkan.

When traveling, you don’t always have to rush to check off every attraction. Occasionally finding a distinctive cafe, sitting down, and enjoying some leisurely time can also be a nice travel experience.
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.
- Ehime
- Shopping Streets
26 Oct 2026 See More

When you visit Dogo Onsen, of course you can’t miss the nearby Dogo Shopping Arcade! The entire arcade is fun to explore, with lots of dessert shops, souvenir stores, and local food. Every place makes you want to step inside and take a look!

Besides Dogo Onsen-related products, you can also find specialties from all over Shikoku, such as Imabari towels, Ehime mandarin orange juice, and sea bream rice. Whether you want to enjoy some food or buy souvenirs, this is a great place to browse.

At the end of the arcade, you’ll see Dogo Onsen Honkan. You can also stop by Dogo Onsen Station to take photos, so it’s perfect to visit them together!

There’s also a vending machine in the center of the arcade that sells origami ornaments. They’re inexpensive and have distinctive designs, so if you want a unique little souvenir, consider taking one home!

Besides soaking in the hot springs and admiring the historic architecture at Dogo Onsen, don’t forget to leave some time to explore the shopping arcade, enjoy the food, and shop for souvenirs. Taking your time is part of the fun of traveling.