DOGO ONSEN

Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, is a revered hot spring destination known for its timeless charm and therapeutic waters. Steeped in history, this onsen town boasts one of the oldest public bathhouses in Japan, the Dogo Onsen Honkan, which has been welcoming visitors for over a thousand years.

Dogo Onsen is a 3000-year-old hot water spring that holds immense medicinal properties. This captivating tourist destination has three public bathhouses – Kami no Yu, Tama no Yu, and Asuka no Yu. These baths with refreshing thermal waters give you a one-of-its-kind experience. They have different price levels, depending on the personalised package. Once you are done with the bath, you can enjoy the regional delicacy “Botchan Dango”, a sweet dish made from tea and rice flour. You can also slip into a cotton robe and take a walk through the passageways to soak in the local customs.

If you're looking to include this unique experience in your itinerary, consider adding it to your Japan trips for an unforgettable journey. Dogo Onsen also gives you a chance to explore the local markets. The alleys are filled with Imabari towels, Tobe Yaki ceramics, and Uwajima pearls; some of the beautiful souvenirs to take home. If you are a fan of Studio Ghibli, there is a dedicated shop which sells its merchandise.

Highlights

• Heal your mind, body, and soul at the Dogo Onsen where three hot spring bathtubs await you with their therapeutic properties for a blissful life.
• Explore the streets of the Dogo Onsen resort after taking the hot water bath and put on a cotton yukata robe to feel like you truly belong.
• Enjoy the ripeness of freshly squeezed mikan juice and Dogo beer which are some of the specialities of the Dogo Onsen.
• Soak in the gorgeous architecture of the Dogo Onsen which has a three-level building and a watchtower with red glass windows and an egret.
• Pick some local souvenirs for your family as you explore the shopping arcades where you will find Imabari towels, Uwajima pearls, and Tobe Yaki ceramics.

How To Reach

1. By Bus: The distance from Matsuyama Airport to Dogo Onsen is 10.3 km and takes approximately 30 minutes. You will get Airport Limousine buses there which directly drop you at the destination.

2. By Tram: JR Matsuyama Station to Dogo Onsen is approximately 4.4 km and takes around 30 minutes. Take the #5 trams to reach your destination.

3. By Walk: If you are staying at Dogo’s Inn or Ryokan, you can reach the public bathhouses within 10 minutes on foot.

Best Time To Visit

Dogo Onsen is open to the public all year round.

1. Best Season: Visit Dogo Onsen during spring between March and May as the weather is quite pleasant.

2. Best Day of the Week: Visit the bathhouse between Monday and Friday as the weekdays are less crowded, providing a peaceful experience.

3. Best Time of the Day: Dogo Onsen feels the best between 8 a.m. and 10 a.m. as not many tourists arrive by then.

Other Essential Information

• Clean yourself properly before entering any of the public bathhouses as they are considered to be therapeutic and hold immense significance.
• Select your bathing option according to the kind of setup you prefer as Asuka no Yu has modern amenities and Dogo Onsen Honkan has an age-old charm.
• Visit the Dogo Onsen early in the morning or late in the evening if you want to avoid crowds and get a relaxing experience.
• Explore the surroundings as they will give you a serene experience through the cherry blossoms everywhere and the culturally-inclined Isaniwa Shrine.