EHIME & KOCHI
Ehime and Kochi are the vibrant soul of Japan’s Shikoku island, a realm of dramatic Pacific coastlines and lush, ancient mountains. Ehime offers historic castles and Japan’s oldest hot spring, while Kochi provides untouched nature and the spirit of samurai legends.
This combined region is a haven for adventurers and history buffs. It boasts cycling meccas over the sea, serene river valleys, and venerable temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage trail, all within a citrus-filled landscape where history and nature merge seamlessly.
Most Popular Attractions
Historic Cities & Castles:
Matsuyama Castle: One of Japan’s 12 original surviving castles, it stands atop a hill providing a stunning panoramic view of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.
Kochi Castle: Uniquely preserved, this is the only castle in Japan to have its original main keep and all inner structures intact since its rebuild in the 18th century.
Uwajima Castle: A historical hilltop fortress and one of the last original castle keeps left in Japan, located in the secluded port town of Uwajima.
Ozu Castle: A meticulously reconstructed castle that dominates the riverside town of Ozu, surrounded by a picturesque, historic district.
Uchiko Old Town (Yokaichi-Gokoku): A stunningly preserved historic district famous for its traditional merchant houses, which flourished from the production of wood wax and paper.
Garyu Sanso: An exquisite riverside villa and teahouse complex in Ozu, celebrated as a masterpiece of traditional Japanese sukiya style architecture.
Coastal & Scenic Wonders:
Shimanami Kaido: A world-renowned 70-kilometer cycling course connecting Ehime to Honshu across six islands via a series of spectacular suspension bridges.
Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge: The largest and most impressive of the Shimanami Kaido bridges, spanning one of Japan’s three major rapid currents.
Shimonada Station: A famously scenic, unmanned train station located so close to the sea that it appears to float on the water, celebrated for its sunset views.
Katsurahama Beach: A beautiful, bow-shaped coastal park near Kochi City, known for its view of the Pacific Ocean and a towering bronze statue of the hero Sakamoto Ryoma.
Cape Ashizuri: The dramatic, rugged southernmost tip of Shikoku, featuring sheer granite cliffs, coastal paths, and a lighthouse overlooking the vast Pacific.
Ashizuri Uwakai National Park: A marine and coastal park straddling both prefectures, famous for its unique rock formations and colorful coral reefs perfect for diving and snorkeling.
Nature & Adventure:
Niyodo River & Niko Fuchi: A pristine river system celebrated for its brilliant, deep cobalt blue water, known locally as “Niyodo Blue,” especially at the sacred Niko Fuchi pool.
Shimanto River: Often called Japan’s “last clear stream,” this river is famous for its simple, low-water chinkabashi (submersible bridges) and is a hub for canoeing and rafting.
Shikoku Karst: A large, elevated limestone plateau running along the prefectural border, offering stunning high-altitude drives and grassy, rock-dotted landscapes.
Nakatsu Gorge: A beautiful gorge along the Niyodo River, featuring walking trails that weave through dramatic rock faces to reveal waterfalls and emerald pools.
Mount Ishizuchi: Western Japan’s highest peak and one of its seven sacred mountains, a major destination for challenging hiking and ancient mountain worship.
Culture, Wellness, & Culinary Hubs:
Dōgo Onsen Honkan: Reputed to be Japan’s oldest hot spring bathhouse, its historic wooden structure is a cultural icon rumored to have inspired the bathhouse in the film Spirited Away.
Ōyamazumi Shrine: Located on Omishima Island, this highly revered shrine is dedicated to the guardian deity of warriors and houses an extensive collection of samurai armor and weapons.
Hirome Market: A massive, lively indoor food court in Kochi City known as “Kochi’s Kitchen,” essential for tasting the local delicacy, katsuo no tataki (seared bonito).
Sunday Market (Kochi): An open-air street market that has operated for over 300 years, stretching over a kilometer from the main gate of Kochi Castle.
Ishiteji Temple: The 51st temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, distinguished by its National Treasure gate and a dark, atmospheric mantra cave.
Botchan Train: A small, nostalgic steam-engine-style train (now diesel) that runs through Matsuyama, named after the famous Natsume Soseki novel, Botchan.
Activities & Experiences
Cycle the Shimanami Kaido: Rent a bicycle (including e-bikes) and tackle the world-famous, 70-km scenic toll road that connects Imabari in Ehime to Hiroshima Prefecture, crossing six small islands and various beautiful bridges over the Seto Inland Sea.
Soak in Dogo Onsen Honkan: Experience one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot springs in Matsuyama, Ehime. This historic wooden bathhouse is said to have inspired the setting for Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away.
Walk the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage (O-Henro): Visit a selection of the sacred temples in the region, such as Chikurin-ji Temple (Kochi) or temples around Matsuyama (Ehime), to experience a part of this ancient, 1,200 km spiritual journey.
Feast on Katsuo no Tataki at Hirome Market: Head to Kochi City’s vibrant indoor market and watch vendors prepare the local specialty—seared bonito—over a straw fire, then enjoy it with local ponzu (citrus-based soy sauce).
Canoe or SUP the Niyodo River: Explore the famously clear waters of the Niyodo River in Kochi, known for its incredible “Niyodo Blue” color. Join an outdoor center for canoeing, stand-up paddleboarding (SUP), or a relaxing yakatabune (river houseboat) ride.
Explore Matsuyama Castle: Ascend the hill (by foot or ropeway) to visit this beautiful, original-construction feudal castle in Ehime, offering panoramic views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.
Hike in the Shikoku Mountains:
- Mt. Ishizuchi (Ehime): Climb the highest peak in Western Japan, a sacred mountain where you may encounter Shinto mountain ascetics.
- UFO Line (Kochi): Drive or cycle this scenic mountain road near Mt. Ishizuchi for dramatic, high-altitude views.
Discover the Shimanto River: Visit Japan’s “last clear stream” in Western Kochi. Rent a bicycle for a scenic ride or take a boat trip to admire the unique, low-to-the-water chinkabashi (submersible bridges).
Learn a Traditional Craft: Take a class to experience the local artistry:
- Tosa Washi Paper Making in Kochi at a museum or studio.
- Japanese Knife Forging at a workshop specializing in Tosa Uchi-hamono knives.
Go Whale Watching in Kochi: Take a boat tour off the coast of Kochi to spot whales and dolphins, particularly in the waters near Cape Ashizuri.
Visit Katsurahama Beach: See the famous bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, a celebrated historical figure, at this picturesque crescent-shaped beach near Kochi City (swimming is prohibited due to strong currents).
Wander the Old Town of Ozu (Ehime): Explore the historic castle town, including Ozu Castle and the beautiful lakeside villa Garyu Sanso, often called the “Little Kyoto” of Ehime.
Local Tips & Transport
Car Rental is Highly Recommended: Given the mountainous geography and the distance between major sites (like Matsuyama/Dogo Onsen in Ehime and Kochi City or the Shimanto River in Kochi), a rental car is the most flexible and efficient way to explore both prefectures, especially to reach rural areas, hot springs, or remote temples.
The JR Rail Network: Limited Express (Tokkyu) trains connect the major cities (e.g., the JR Yosan Line along the Ehime coast and the JR Dosan Line connecting Ehime to Kochi via the mountains).
- The All Shikoku Rail Pass is a cost-effective option for travelers planning to use trains extensively.
- The Iyonada Monogatari is a popular sightseeing train in Ehime running between Matsuyama and Ozu/Yawatahama.
Matsuyama’s Tram & Train System (Iyotetsu): Matsuyama City has a user-friendly system of trains and streetcars, including the quaint Botchan Train (a replica steam train). The tram is excellent for getting between JR Matsuyama Station, Matsuyama City Station, and Dogo Onsen.
Local Buses: Buses connect smaller towns and remote locations, but schedules can be infrequent. In Kochi City, the My Yu Bus is a convenient sightseeing loop connecting major attractions like Kochi Castle and Katsurahama Beach.
Seafood Culture: Both prefectures are famous for seafood, but Kochi’s Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito) is a must-try staple. Ehime’s specialty is local tai (sea bream), often served as tai-meshi (sea bream rice).
Ehime’s Citrus: Ehime is known as Japan’s “Mandarin Kingdom” (mikan). You’ll find a massive variety of fresh citrus, juices, and related sweets. Be sure to try a fresh cup of mikan juice from a stand.
The Pilgimage (O-Henro) Etiquette: If you encounter a pilgrim (o-henro-san) walking the 88-Temple route, locals often offer small gifts or food (osettai). As a visitor, a simple bow or a polite greeting like “Gokurosan” (expressing appreciation for their hardship) is a kind gesture.
The “Niyodo Blue” Phenomenon: This stunning, crystal-clear cobalt color of the Niyodo River is best viewed on a sunny day. The color can appear deepest at a few specific spots, such as Nakatsu Gorge or Nikobuchi (check for any current access restrictions before visiting Nikobuchi).
Hidden Gems:
- The UFO Line (Kochi): A high-altitude, largely unpaved (but generally passable) road for a dramatic mountain drive with incredible views of the Shikoku range.
- Seto Inland Sea Islands (Ehime): Go island-hopping from Imabari, not just for the Shimanami Kaido, but for quieter, smaller islands like Omishima, which boasts the historic Oyamazumi Shrine.
- Garyu Sanso (Ehime): A magnificent, lesser-known villa in Ozu showcasing exquisite traditional Japanese architectural craftsmanship overlooking the Hijikawa River.
Cash is King (Especially in Rural Areas): While major cities accept IC cards and credit cards, many small restaurants, local bodegas (especially in the countryside), and rural bus companies still operate mainly in cash. Always carry a supply of Japanese Yen.
Top Restaurants
Myojinmaru Honten [$20-$40] – A famous restaurant in Kochi City, specializing in Katsuo no Tataki (seared bonito) prepared using the dramatic warayaki (straw-searing) method, a regional specialty of Kochi.
Tsukasa Kochihonten [$30-$60] – A long-established restaurant in Kochi renowned for authentic Tosa-ryori (Kochi cuisine), offering a full spectrum of local dishes, including the essential Katsuo no Tataki.
Yatai Yasubee [$15-$25] – A popular, long-standing gyoza (dumpling) stall in Kochi City, known for its small, crispy, pan-fried dumplings and late-night opening hours, offering a true “yatai” (food stall) experience.
Hirome Market (Various Stalls) [$15-$35] – A bustling indoor market next to Kochi Castle, featuring around 65 street stall-style restaurants where locals and visitors enjoy various cuisines, especially Katsuo no Tataki and local drinks at shared tables.
Izakaya Daikichi [$30-$50] – An atmospheric izakaya in Kochi renovated from an 80-year-old sake brewery, praised for its incredibly fresh bonito sashimi and selection of local Kochi sake.
Kadoya Okaido Branch [$25-$45] – Located in Matsuyama, Ehime, this restaurant is highly recommended for tasting the local Ehime specialty Taimeshi (sea bream with rice), offering the traditional Uwajima-style preparation.
Suigeitei Kochi [$30-$50] – The main branch of the local restaurant Orankuya, offering fresh seasonal seafood and local Kochi dishes like sushi and sashimi, in a traditional setting.
Habotan [$25-$45] – A traditional Japanese pub (izakaya) in Kochi City that provides a genuine local experience with deep-fried seafood, sashimi, and local sake, recommended for its Tosamaki and Fried Utubo (moray eel).
Dogo Musubi Kaguwa [$25-$45] – Located near Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, this spot focuses on local Japanese cuisine, offering a variety of Ehime’s regional specialties like Taimeshi.
Isshinmaru Dogo Branch [$25-$45] – An izakaya near Dogo Onsen Station in Ehime, offering a wide array of seafood and creative Japanese dishes, popular for its vibrant atmosphere and local ingredients.
Goshiki (Matsuyama) [$20-$40] – A representative restaurant for Ehime’s local cuisine, famous for its two distinct styles of Taimeshi (Uwajima-style and Matsuyama-style) and other regional seafood dishes like Tai Somen.
Pain Maison [$5-$15] – Located in Yawatahama City, Ehime, this bakery is famous for inventing the now-nationally-known Shiopan (salt bread), a delicious, simple snack with a crisp outside and soft, buttery inside.
Tanaka Sengyoten [$20-$40] – A seafood restaurant in Kochi known for its fresh, locally sourced fish and a peaceful, traditional setting, offering a refined taste of the region’s coastal bounty.
Warayakitataki Myojimmaru (Hirome Market) [$15-$35] – A popular stall inside Hirome Market in Kochi, specifically renowned for its katsuo no tataki seared directly over a straw fire.
Tanishi [$30-$50] – A highly-regarded spot in Kochi for enjoying local cuisine and drinks, often featuring dishes using seasonal ingredients from the mountains and the sea.
Unagi HASHIMOTO [$35-$60] – A specialized restaurant in Kochi focusing on high-quality unagi (freshwater eel), offering a different taste of the region’s non-marine bounty.
Chonmage Ramen – Kochi Main Store [$10-$20] – A local favorite ramen shop in Kochi, serving a flavorful and satisfying bowl of ramen that appeals to the local palate.
Yairotei [$15-$30] – Located in Kochi, this restaurant is a local gem known for its hearty portions and traditional Kochi cuisine.
Chinmido [$10-$20] – A small, traditional spot in Kochi, often sought out for quick, delicious, and very local snacks and light meals.
The Craft Dining Bar OKUe [$40-$70] – A dining bar in Matsuyama, Ehime, that creatively reinvents Japanese cuisine using carefully selected seasonal local ingredients, offering a modern take on izakaya dining.
Ichigojinkai Tofuya Kakurezato [$40-$60] – A creative and traditional Japanese restaurant in Kochi with a focus on tofu dishes, offering a serene atmosphere for both lunch and an evening course meal.
ecocca [$30-$50] – A creative cuisine spot in Kochi, blending various styles to produce inventive dishes, known for its casual yet high-quality atmosphere and good selection of cocktails.
loguelogue [$50-$100] – A contemporary restaurant in Kochi offering a fusion of Italian, French, and Spanish food, perfect for a modern, high-end international dining experience.
Pizzeria Austro [$20-$40] – Located in Imabari, Ehime, this spot offers excellent Neapolitan pizza and Italian cuisine, a delightful non-Japanese option using local ingredients.
Kitchin Cafe Kaido [$15-$30] – An Eastern Kochi cafe offering a mix of Japanese and Western-style food in a relaxed setting, known for using local flavors in its menu.
Blue Brew Taproom & Brewery [$20-$40] – A taproom in Central Kochi that serves local craft beer alongside izakaya-style food, offering a modern, casual dining and drinking experience.
Ippin Oryori Ootaki [$70-$100] – A traditional yet refined restaurant in Matsuyama, Ehime, specializing in Japanese multi-course meals (kaiseki) and shabu-shabu/sukiyaki, with a focus on seasonal quality.
Sushi no Ma [$120-$200+] – A double Michelin-starred sushiya in Matsuyama, Ehime, blending local Ehime traditions with highly skilled Edomae-style sushi preparation, using the finest local fish.
Sushi Iino [$100-$150+] – A high-end, Michelin-starred Edomae-style sushi restaurant in the heart of Matsuyama City, Ehime, offering a superb selection of sake to pair with its renowned sushi.
Kyoufu Ippin Ryouri Kiyomizu [$80-$150] – A Michelin-starred restaurant in Matsuyama, Ehime, offering exquisite kaiseki (traditional multi-course) meals, with a chef who values people, produce, and provenance.
Ryotei Sokkon [$80-$130] – A high-end ryotei (traditional Japanese restaurant) in Ehime offering refined kaiseki cuisine in an elegant setting.
Ryotei Kagetsu [$70-$120] – A highly-regarded, formal Japanese restaurant in Kochi, known for its traditional atmosphere and refined local cuisine, often serving as a venue for special occasions.
Akakichi [$80-$150] – A top-tier sushi restaurant on Hakatajima Island in Ehime, known for its delectable nigiri and premium sake, justifying the journey for the quality of the food.
Yamamoto Shinichiro [$100-$180+] – A specialty Edomae sushi restaurant in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, characterized by its dedication to high-quality ingredients and traditional techniques.
Edomae Ichiro [$100-$150] – A respected sushi restaurant in Matsuyama City, Ehime, committed to preserving the traditional Edomae sushi style.
Sushi Takayama [$80-$130] – A fine dining sushi establishment in Ehime known for its high-quality ingredients and meticulously prepared sushi.
Sushi Kawanaka [$70-$120] – A noted sushi restaurant in Ehime where the owner’s skill with local fish is highly praised.
Inaka Sushi (Various Vendors) [$15-$30] – The collective term for a unique style of sushi originating from rural areas of Kochi, often featuring mountain vegetables and local ingredients instead of just fish, found at various local shops and markets.
Roadside Station Kawauso-no-sato [$10-$20] – Offers the unique experience of trying your hand at searing bonito over a straw fire, a truly immersive local experience, in addition to local snacks.
Orange BAR (Matsuyama Airport) [$5-$15] – A unique spot at Matsuyama Airport in Ehime where you can taste the prefecture’s famous citrus fruits in the form of juice and other refreshments, highlighting Ehime as a “citrus kingdom.”
Hirosueya [$20-$40] – A popular spot in Kochi known for its diverse menu that caters to various tastes, often featuring local ingredients in both traditional and slightly more adventurous dishes.
Ichifuku Hyakuka Seikoudou [$5-$15] – A traditional Japanese sweet shop in Imabari City, Ehime, famous for its Mikan Daifuku, a whole sweet mandarin wrapped in mochi and white bean paste.
Roadside Station Kiramesse Muroto [$10-$25] – Offers unique local specialties like Whale (sashimi, seared, or fried) and Salt Gelato made from Muroto deep-sea salt and local milk.
Roadside Station Yasu [$5-$20] – A stop that allows you to enjoy very local delicacies like Ice-cream Bars made from local citrus fruits like ponkan and buntan, and a seared red sea bream bowl.
loguelogue [$50-$100] – A contemporary restaurant in Kochi offering a fusion of Italian, French, and Spanish food, perfect for a modern, high-end international dining experience.
Shimanto Ochakuri Cafe [$5-$15] – A cafe in Western Kochi known for its baked goods and sweets, often utilizing local chestnuts and tea from the Shimanto region.
Kiyomi’s Cafe (Near Niyodo River) [$10-$20] – A casual cafe often mentioned for its scenic location near the Niyodo River, offering light meals and local snacks.
Top Cocktail Bars and Clubs
Con Alma: An authentic bar in Matsuyama City, Ehime, located near Okaido Station. It’s known for high-quality, seasonal original cocktails, including unique creations using local Ehime flavors like Mugi Miso Gin and spirits flavored with local citrus.
LE CLUB: Located in Matsuyama’s Nibancho district, this highly-rated bar is a must-visit for its exceptional cocktails crafted by a top bartender. The ambiance features an enchanting old-England aesthetic with memorabilia from Game of Thrones and Hogwarts.
Bar Dream: Found in the Okaido/Gintengai area of Matsuyama, Ehime, this is a spot for classic and contemporary cocktails, as well as a selection of pasta and other bar food, operating until the early morning hours.
again: Situated near Kochi Station/Harimayabashi in Kochi City, this sophisticated spot is an ideal place to enjoy a meticulously crafted cocktail or selection of whisky after a long day of sightseeing.
Bar Francois: An old-style, serious cocktail and whiskey bar located in the Otesuji District of Kochi City. This hidden gem focuses on traditional preparations, offering a classic Japanese bar experience perfect for quiet conversation.
Irish Pub Amontillado: A welcoming pub in Kochi City’s Obiyamachi known for a great selection of whiskies and beers on tap, serving as a lively spot to enjoy a drink in a classic pub setting.
BOSTON CAFE: Found near Horizume Station in Kochi City, this is a large, stylish space that offers cocktails and features occasional live music, making it a great place for a mid-range late-night drink.
Flankey Kobayashi: A stand-up bar with an attractive retro atmosphere on a busy corner of the Matsuyama entertainment district. It’s known as a welcoming spot for both locals and foreign visitors.
Sala Sol: Located in the central nightlife area of Matsuyama, this popular spot is known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and is a great choice for those looking for an after-dinner drink and a bit of companionship.
Marinecco: A European-style pub on Ropeway Dori in Matsuyama that offers a good happy hour and serves excellent international draught beers like Guinness and Kilkenny, along with pub fare.
Kuramotoya Ehime no Jizake: While not strictly a cocktail bar, this stand-up bar on Ichibancho in Matsuyama is essential for sampling a wide range of Ehime’s local sake at highly affordable prices, offering a unique local drinking experience.
Café Bleu: A comfortable hideaway bar and cafe located just off the Okaido arcade in Matsuyama, offering a relaxing atmosphere and a menu that includes café and bar food alongside drinks.
Gigi’s Bar: A smaller, intimate bar in Matsuyama’s Nibancho area, specializing in classic cocktails and a refined atmosphere for a sophisticated evening.
Bar Le Coeur: An elegant, traditional Japanese cocktail bar located in the Matsuyama City center, focusing on classic mixology and a meticulous attention to detail.
Bar Gold: A casual, smaller bar in the Dogo Onsen area of Matsuyama perfect for a relaxed final drink after a visit to the famous hot springs.
Blue Belton Discotheque: A place for dancing in central Matsuyama, offering a traditional discotheque experience for those looking to “freak out” and dance the night away.
Latin Bar Ashes: Located in Matsuyama, this spot is a top choice if you enjoy salsa dancing and Latin music, offering a vibrant and energetic alternative to other clubs.
The Second Step: A popular live music venue in the entertainment area of Matsuyama, featuring local and touring rock and alternative bands, often transitioning to a more casual bar setting on non-show nights.
55 Ryoma Dori / Gold by ParaっP: A lively alley complex in Kochi City’s Otesuji District that comes alive at night. Gold by ParaっP is particularly unique, known for its colorful, anime-figure-filled décor and a popular all-you-can-drink option for a fun night out.
En Tako: Located in Kochi City, this is a lively spot that starts as a casual bar but quickly turns into a high-energy karaoke bar with a loyal following, serving food and strong drinks until late.
Hirome Market Night Scene: While an indoor food market near Kochi Castle, it transforms into a bustling, energetic communal drinking hall in the evenings where locals and tourists share tables, drink local sake, and enjoy a vibrant, social atmosphere that feels like one large, celebratory pub/club.
Karu-Karun: A popular spot in Matsuyama’s nightlife district known for its wide selection of shochu and sake, often hosting live DJ events on weekends, drawing a younger crowd.
Club J: A modern dance club located in the Nibancho area of Matsuyama, focusing on electronic dance music and drawing a crowd looking for a traditional late-night dance floor experience.
Bar & Club Almaz: A centrally located venue in Kochi City that operates as both a bar and a small club, featuring regular DJ sets with a focus on house and international music.
MILL’S: Located in the main entertainment grid of Matsuyama, this venue is known for its spacious layout and a mix of popular music, attracting a diverse crowd looking to dance and party late into the night.