When visiting Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime, I recommend spending a night at Chaharu! The hotel is right across from Dogo Onsen Honkan, about a one-minute walk from the hotel. The location is really convenient, and there are also quite a few nearby attractions to explore at a leisurely pace.
This time, I stayed in a Japanese-style tatami room. It was very spacious, clean, and comfortable. There are indoor and open-air hot spring baths on the top floor of the hotel, and you can enjoy the night view while soaking, which is very relaxing. Yukata are also provided in the room. If the size doesn't fit, you can ask the front desk to exchange it, which is very thoughtful.
However, when you come to Dogo Onsen, you definitely shouldn't only use the hotel's hot spring! You should also experience Dogo Onsen Honkan across the street. It's one of Japan's historic hot springs, and its old-fashioned architecture and interior make you feel as though you've stepped into a scene from the animated film Spirited Away. Unfortunately, it was undergoing renovations during this visit, but the hot spring was still available and was still worth experiencing.
Breakfast was a Western-style buffet. Although the selection wasn't particularly large, it had all the basics, including bread, salad, hot dishes, soup, and drinks. There were also made-to-order omelets and Eggs Benedict. It was my first time seeing Eggs Benedict offered at a breakfast buffet, which was a nice surprise!
Overall, Chaharu is a clean and comfortable hot spring hotel in a great location. Nearby attractions include Dogo Onsen Station, the Botchan Karakuri Clock, and Dogo Shopping Street. It's a great place to spend a night during a trip to Shikoku and enjoy the laid-back atmosphere of a hot spring town.
