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Matsuyama: The Hidden Gem of Ehime Prefecture
Nestled in the heart of Ehime Prefecture, Matsuyama is a city of unmatched beauty and wonder. Just a short flight or train ride from major cities in Japan, it is the perfect destination for anyone looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life. As a National Geographic journalist, I was lucky enough to visit Matsuyama and experience all that this enchanting city has to offer.
Scenery of the City
One of the things that immediately caught my attention in Matsuyama was the stunning scenery. The city is surrounded by natural beauty, from the lush greenery of the mountains to the crystal blue waters of the Seto Inland Sea. The Matsuyama Castle, which is perched atop a hill overlooking the city, offers a breathtaking panoramic view, especially during cherry blossom season.
What I Like Most
What I liked most about Matsuyama was its mix of traditional and modern culture. Walking down the streets of the city, one can see the old-style architecture, which has been preserved for centuries, alongside modern skyscrapers. The city is also famous for its onsen (hot springs), which have been in use for over 3,000 years.
What I Dislike
The only downside to Matsuyama is the transportation. Unlike other major cities in Japan, Matsuyama’s public transportation system is not as advanced. With limited bus routes and irregular train schedules, it can be a challenge to get around the city.
Average Cost of Living in a Day
The average cost of living in Matsuyama is relatively affordable compared to other major cities in Japan. A budget of $50-60 USD per day is enough to cover food, transportation, and entertainment.
Top 20 Points of Interest
1. Matsuyama Castle – 1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama 790-0008, Ehime Prefecture
2. Ishiteji Temple – 3-chōme-2 Ishite, Matsuyama 791-0292, Ehime Prefecture
3. Dogo Onsen – 4-16 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama 790-0842, Ehime Prefecture
4. Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum – 1-1-20, Okaido, Matsuyama 790-0004, Ehime Prefecture
5. Shiki Memorial Museum – 1666-2 Furumitsu, Matsuyama 790-0965, Ehime Prefecture
Yelp Top Reviews and Ratings
Matsuyama Castle – 4.5/5
Ishiteji Temple – 4.5/5
Dogo Onsen – 4.5/5
Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum – 4/5
Shiki Memorial Museum – 4/5
Top 20 Popular Street Food and Prices
1. Taiyaki (fish-shaped pancakes with filling) – ¥200 ($1.90 USD)
2. Yakitori (grilled chicken skewers) – ¥100 ($0.95 USD) per skewer
3. Takoyaki (octopus balls) – ¥500 ($4.70 USD) for 6 pieces
4. Okonomiyaki (Japanese savory pancakes) – ¥600 ($5.70 USD)
5. Imo Yokan (sweet potato jelly) – ¥150 ($1.40 USD)
Recommendation on where to find street food
1. Dogo Onsen Station – for Taiyaki and Imo Yokan
2. Matsuyama Station – for Yakitori and Takoyaki
3. Ichibancho Shopping Arcade – for Okonomiyaki
Top 10 Most Popular Hotels
1. Dormy Inn Matsuyama Natural Hot Spring – $70-80 USD per night – 4.4/5
2. Hotel Kajiwara – $50-60 USD per night – 4.2/5
3. Matsuyama Tokyu REI Hotel – $60-70 USD per night – 4.0/5
4. ANA Crown Plaza Hotel Matsuyama – $80-90 USD per night – 4.0/5
5. Hotel JAL City Matsuyama – $70-80 USD per night – 3.9/5
Top 10 Most Popular Airbnbs
1. Cozy Japanese House in Matsuyama – $50 USD per night – 5.0/5
2. Traditional Japanese Room in Matsuyama – $50 USD per night – 5.0/5
3. Private Room near Dogo Onsen – $30 USD per night – 4.9/5
4. Modern Apartment in Matsuyama – $60 USD per night – 4.8/5
5. Cozy 1BR Apartment near Matsuyama Castle – $40 USD per night – 4.7/5
Top 5 Most Cost-Effective Hotels and Airbnbs
1. Cozy Japanese House in Matsuyama – $50 USD per night – 5.0/5 – Offers an authentic Japanese experience at an affordable price.
2. Private Room near Dogo Onsen – $30 USD per night – 4.9/5 – Great for budget travelers who want to experience Japanese hospitality.
3. Hotel Kajiwara – $50-60 USD per night – 4.2/5 – Centrally located, comfortable stay at an affordable price.
4. Cozy 1BR Apartment near Matsuyama Castle – $40 USD per night – 4.7/5 – Modern, clean and great location.
5. ANA Crown Plaza Hotel Matsuyama – $80-90 USD per night – 4.0/5 – Offers a luxurious stay at a reasonable price.
Recommended 3-day Trip
Day 1
1. Matsuyama Castle – 1 Marunouchi, Matsuyama 790-0008
2. Dogo Onsen – 4-16 Dogoyunomachi, Matsuyama 790-0842
3. Shiki Memorial Museum – 1666-2 Furumitsu, Matsuyama 790-0965
4. Okaido Shopping Arcade – Central Matsuyama
5. Iyo-Mishima Station – launch point to climb Mount Ishizuchi
Food recommendation
1. Taiyaki at Dogo Onsen Station
2. Yakitori at Okaido Shopping Arcade
3. Dinner at Dogo Onsen
Day 2
1. Ishiteji Temple – 3-chōme-2 Ishite, Matsuyama 791-0292
2. Gintengai Shopping Arcade – 2-chōme-1-1 Okaido, Matsuyama
3. Matsuyama City Museum of Art – 7-8 Sanbancho, Matsuyama 790-0001
4. Riverside park Hachimaru – Matsushimamasaki, Iyo-shi, Ehime-ken 799-3723
5. Suzakiyama Park – Kume, Matsuyama 791-1192
Food recommendation
1. Takoyaki at Gintengai Shopping Arcade
2. Okonomiyaki at Riverside park Hachimaru
3. Dinner at Suzakiyama Park
Day 3
1. Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum – 1-1-20 Okaido, Matsuyama 790-0004
2. Bird Eye View Observatory – Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum
3. Botchan Train Ride – Matsuyama Station
4. Ichibancho Shopping Arcade – Central Matsuyama
5. Yuzuki Castle Ruins – Tajiri-cho, Iyo-gun, Ehime-ken 799-2115
Food recommendation
1. Imo Yokan at Dogo Onsen Station
2. Oysters at Ichibancho Shopping Arcade
3. Dinner at Yuzuki Castle Ruins
In conclusion, Matsuyama is truly a hidden gem of Japan, offering a unique blend of traditional and modern culture. The city’s stunning scenery, rich history, famous hot springs, street food, and affordable cost of living make it a must-visit destination. I rate Matsuyama a 9/10!
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