Kumakogen Town: Features, Popular Tourist Attractions, Gourmet

Kumakogen Town in Ehime Prefecture is a nature-rich mountain town known as the “Karuizawa of Shikoku.”

Located on a highland plateau at an average elevation of 800 meters, Kumakogen Town is blessed with national-level natural heritage sites including Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan, Shikoku Karst, one of Japan’s three major karst formations, and Omogo Gorge, which spreads through the headwaters of the Niyodo River. With a cool climate averaging 13 degrees Celsius annually, the town offers beautiful seasonal changes unique within Ehime Prefecture’s Seto Inland Sea climate, making it a year-round tourist destination featuring spring azaleas, summer retreats, autumn foliage, and winter skiing.

Omogo Gorge is a spectacular spot where emerald green streams create breathtaking scenery, with its mystical blue waters known as “Niyodo Blue” captivating many visitors. Known as Shikoku’s largest gorge, it offers beautiful contrasts between unique rock formations and clear streams, displaying overwhelming beauty especially during the autumn foliage season.

As a historical attraction, there is Daiho-ji Temple, the 44th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. This ancient temple, called the “Middle Temple,” is located at the exact midpoint of the Shikoku pilgrimage route, quietly nestled in the mountains at approximately 560 meters elevation. Founded in 701 AD (first year of Taiho era), this historic temple features ancient cedar and cypress trees over 300 years old lining its approach, creating a mystical atmosphere.

In terms of cuisine, the town takes pride in dishes featuring highland vegetables. Particularly, tomatoes and cabbage from Kumakogen Town are known for their strong sweetness and can be enjoyed at local cafes and restaurants. The area is also rich in freshwater delicacies like char and sweetfish, with fresh river fish cuisine available around Omogo Gorge. Apple pies and craft gin made from Kumakogen Town apples are popular local specialties, and visitors can purchase local products at the roadside station “Tenkuu no Sato Sansan.”

Kumakogen Town is an attractive tourist destination that harmoniously combines rich nature and historical culture, despite being conveniently located just 30 minutes by car from Matsuyama City. It continues to be beloved by many tourists as a special place where one can forget daily life and experience healing moments.