This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Matsuyama.
Matsuyama, Japan, is located in the Ehime Prefecture, on Shikoku Island. To reach the city, most people travel via ferry or boat. It is about seventy-five kilometers south of Hiroshima on the main island of Japan.
Sitting next to the Iyo-Nada Sea, Matsuyama is often warm and humid, and in the summer the skies can be fairly hazy. Matsuyama is known for being an area rich with natural onsens (Japanese public hot springs bathhouses). Amongst them is the world-famous Dogo Onsen. Considered the oldest onsen in Japan, dating as far back as the late nineteenth century, Dogo Onsen is still a fully functioning bathhouse. In popular culture, Dogo Onsen can be recognized as the inspiration behind the bathhouse represented in the Academy Award-winning animated film, "Spirited Away," produced by Studio Ghibli.
Another interesting attraction many travelers like to visit is the Matsuyama Castle. Sitting mighty on top of the hill, the castle makes a grand and imposing presence on the city below. All around the Matsuyama Castle, travelers can find many shopping promenades, including the largest one in the city, called Okaido.
Perhaps the influence from all the onsens in the area, Matsuyama is a peaceful and relaxed city, with most of the city turning down by sundown. There isn't a subway or metro line, but the city flows efficiently on buses, trams, and bicycles.
There are plenty of accommodation options available in Matsuyama, as it is a popular travel destination for local Japanese tourists as well. There are many luxury hotels available, as well as lower-priced hostels in Matsuyama, Japan. Many Matsuyama, Japan hostels are located near the Dogo Onsen and provide both private and dorm room options. Hostels in Matsuyama, Japan, are often spacious, comfortable, and offer plenty of amenities, such as kitchen and laundry facilities.
It's best to reserve beds and rooms ahead of time. Even with the numerous accommodation choices available, space often fills up quickly, especially during high season in the summer or around the holidays.
Written by local enthusiast for Matsuyama hostels
Charmaine