Published date: February 21, 2025
Dogo Onsen: One of Japan's Three Ancient Hot Springs - A Perfect Base for Enjoying Day and Night
Room Type Stayed
Single
1 guest(s)
425 ~
Some info has been automatically translated by AI.
Experience of the stay
I stayed at Daiwa-ya Main Store for 2 days and 1 night during the extreme cold wave.
To efficiently enjoy the sightseeing spots and gourmet foods, I researched in advance and visited 8 tourist attractions and 5 gourmet spots.
There were three points that led me to choose this hotel as my base:
1. Convenient transportation
2. Located in Dogo Onsen area
3. Comprehensive services
4. Hot springs
1. Convenient transportation
There are limousine buses running directly from Matsuyama Airport to Dogo Onsen, making it easy to reach in one go.
Additionally, there are streetcars, which are convenient for sightseeing around Matsuyama city before heading to Dogo Onsen.
There are also buses from Dogo Onsen back to Matsuyama Airport.
The sheltered arcade between Dogo Onsen and the station is a blessing on rainy days or when the sun is strong.
2. Located in Dogo Onsen area
The hotel is about a 2-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Honkan, making it an ideal base for sightseeing.
It's easy to get to the free foot baths, Asukanoyu, Izanami Shrine, and Enmanji Temple from here.
3. Comprehensive services
Since the front desk is staffed, it’s great for those who are not comfortable with self-check-in.
There are plenty of free services available:
- Famous
Experiences during the trip
【Attractions】
① Matsuyama Castle
This is one of the existing castles in Japan.
There are routes to ascend by stairs, ropeway, and lift.
Stairs are free but not recommended as they can be very tiring.
The stone steps are approximately 900m long and unevenly paved.
Even those in good shape might find it quite exhausting.
If you want to ascend comfortably, either the ropeway or lift is recommended.
After viewing Matsuyama Castle, it’s advisable to take it easy for further sightseeing.
Matsuyama Castle has a rare structure called a connected castle, and exhibits are showcased.
On a clear day, the view from the castle is excellent.
② Bansuisou
A Western-style mansion often used for filming TV shows and movies.
It was also used in the film version of the drama "Sherlock."
The stained glass and interior are lovely, making it highly recommended!
③ Dogo Onsen Honkan
It's worth visiting, even if you don’t enter, as the exterior is beautiful. It changes its impression between day and night.
④ Asukanoyu
Regular events are held in the area.
During my visit, there was a camellia lantern illumination festival.
It is within walking distance from the hotel, making it a nice stop if you are around during events.
⑤ Two Foot Baths
There are two free foot bath spots.
One is next to the clock tower right in front of Dogo Onsen Station, called Dogo Hoseien, and the other near Yujinja, on the Sky Walkway.
Neither provides towels, so you need to bring your own or rent one from the hotel front desk.
Be careful; it gets cooler on rainy days.
⑥ Enmanji Temple
A temple famous for its matchmaking talisman, which is popular on social media.
It’s a small temple tucked away down a side path, so having a map app can be handy to find it.
⑦ Izanami Shrine
A shrine famous for matchmaking.
While it’s not as steep as Matsuyama Castle, it involves climbing stairs, so it’s best to go while you have energy left.
The view of Dogo Onsen from the top is beautiful.
⑧ Ishiteji
A temple located about a 15-minute walk from the hotel.
There is a cave that gives it a somewhat mystical feeling.
Coincidentally, a celebrity named Hiroshi Fujioka was participating in an event and throwing lucky rice cakes.
It might be good to research if any events are being held before your visit.
【Gourmet Spots】
・Nabeyaki Udon Kitori
This is a shop selected as one of the top 100 restaurants in Tabelog.
The menu only has two options: Nabeyaki Udon and Inari Sushi.
The udon is light and served immediately after ordering.
The inari sushi is surprisingly filling with a good size.
・Starbucks Dogo Onsen Station
A renovated old station building.
The interior is stylish, making it a nice stop to visit.
It’s also recommended to use while waiting for your train or bus.
・Dogo Haikara Usukamachi
A shop within the arcade of Dogo Onsen.
This stylish store is popular for pancakes and crepes.
The thick pancakes were delicious!
It’s recommended for a break or when you crave something sweet.
・Uotake
A pub serving both fish and meat dishes.
The box seats, which are somewhat like private rooms, allow you to sit comfortably.
You can enjoy your meal without ordering alcohol, if you prefer.
Fish dishes may vary in availability depending on the market supply.
The classic Tai Meshi (sea bream rice) is very delicious! :)
・Shirasagi Coffee
Located right in front of Dogo Onsen Station.
The stylish interior includes window-side seats and comfy sofa seating for a leisurely experience.
Both the coffee and affogato were delightful!Get Extra Bonus Coins! Sign up with this user's referral code now!