Dreams of Japan: Setouchi Itinerary To Dream About

Matsuyama Castle, constructed between 1602 and 1628, is one of just twelve castles to retain its original Edo-era keep through Japan’s turbulent emergence into a modern nation. Today, all twenty-one of Matsuyama Castle’s buildings are listed as Important Cultural Properties by the national government, and it remains one of Japan’s most treasured castles. The castle’s steep hilltop position allows for superb views of the surrounding city and countryside, and far into the Seto Inland Sea which alone will prove well worth the 20-minute walk to the top. If the walk isn’t ideal for you, the castle’s cable car and chair lift options may prove an attractive alternative to the climb. Over the centuries, parts of the castle have been destroyed by fire or bombardment, but thanks to historic renovations and meticulous maintenance, Matsuyama Castle offers a rare history lesson in feudal architecture and warfare that will fascinate all ages. As a bonus, you can also hire armor and wield a sword to elevate your castle experience to a completely different level of authenticity.

With a history reaching back more than 1,000 years, Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City is one of the oldest hot springs in Japan. Famed for its water’s healing properties, the three-story castle-like appearance of Dogo Onsen’s main building oozes old-world charm. Understandably Dogo Onsen rates highly on tourist wish lists, and if you’re planning to stay the night, then location counts. Why? Because having accommodation close enough to the baths that you can toss on a yukata bathrobe and stroll over for another dip takes the experience to an even deeper level of relaxation. Yamatoya Honten, one of the oldest and best-known ryokan in the area, fits this bill perfectly. A short five-minute walk from the railway station, and only a one minute walk from the Dogo Onsen main building, you could not ask for a better location. Established more than 150 years ago, it has grown into a substantial operation, closer in size to a hotel, but still retaining the intimate and friendly feel of a ryokan. As you would expect with any ryokan, there’s delicious artistry that goes into creating the standout multi-course Japanese kaiseki meal, but you can just as easily order top-end Chinese or French dishes if you feel so inclined. One special feature of Yamatoya Honten is the onsite Noh theatre, with nightly performances for guests before they dine. In fact,3 for an extra fee a Noh ‘experience’ can also be arranged. Yamatoya Honten’s close proximity to the Matsuyama Sightseeing Port also gives easy access to ferries bound for Hiroshima, and the chance to travel by boat over the calm Seto Inland Sea.