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In the heart of Dogo Onsen, a popular tourist destination in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, there’s a hidden spot for relaxation and scenic beauty called “Sky Promenade.” Built on the slope of Mt. Kanmuri next to Dogo Onsen Honkan, this observation area offers a free footbath with natural hot spring water and panoramic views of the hot spring town.
Ideal for a break during your walk, Sky Promenade reveals different faces from morning to night. In this calm and pleasant place, you’ll find the charm and discoveries unique to Dogo.
One of the highlights of Sky Promenade is its natural hot spring footbath open to everyone. Available for free from 6:00 to 21:00, it’s perfect for a short break during your sightseeing or on your way back to the inn.
Even a brief soak offers warmth and relaxation from your feet up. In colder seasons, it’s especially soothing for your body.
Note that no towels are provided, so please bring your own.
Another charm of Sky Promenade is the commanding view of Dogo Onsen Honkan from the slope. You can gaze at the full grandeur of the historic building, known for its striking tiled roof.
Benches are placed near the footbath, allowing you to relax while enjoying the panoramic view of Dogo.
The best time to visit is from sunset into the evening. After dark, the onsen town glows softly, and the Honkan is beautifully lit, creating a magical scene—a hidden photo spot known only to a few.
At the entrance to Sky Promenade, you’ll find seasonal flowers such as wisteria, winter camellia, and hydrangea, offering changing scenery throughout the year. While the space is simple and unassuming, the subtle colors of nature make the Dogo atmosphere feel even gentler with every step.
There are also four haiku monuments by Shiki Masaoka, a poet born in Matsuyama, each quietly capturing a moment of Dogo’s seasonal beauty.
| Haiku | Modern Translation | Explanation |
|---|---|---|
| 寒椿落て氷るや手水鉢 | A winter camellia falls and freezes on the surface of the washbasin. | A gentle contrast between red camellias and a thin layer of ice expresses the fleeting beauty of winter. Shiki’s keen sensibility to subtle seasonal changes is evident. In winter, camellias bloom quietly along Sky Promenade, echoing this verse. |
| 寺やある夕山紅葉木魚打つ | At a mountain temple, evening falls and autumn leaves color the scene as a wooden fish drum echoes. | This haiku blends the visual of autumn leaves with the soft sound of the wooden fish, evoking a tranquil, spiritual Japan. The autumn foliage at Sky Promenade recalls this quiet atmosphere. |
| 掛茶屋や頭にさはる藤の花 | Wisteria blossoms dangle from a teahouse eave, brushing against one’s head. | This gentle spring moment captures the intimacy of nature encountered on a journey. The wisteria trellis at Sky Promenade may evoke a similar feeling in spring. |
| 十年の汗を道後の温泉に洗へ | Wash away ten years of toil in the hot springs of Dogo. | This poem was written as a farewell to a junior who had completed their studies, depicting Dogo as a place of healing and new beginnings. The verse is also engraved in the men’s bath at Tsubaki - no - Yu. |
Step away from the tourist bustle and immerse yourself in a corner of calm, touched by literature and the changing seasons.
As dusk falls, Sky Promenade takes on a new charm. Soft lighting illuminates the footbath and paths, transforming the area into a tranquil and magical space.
From the slope, the Honkan also glows in warm light, floating beautifully in the night. It’s a calm, contemplative contrast to the daytime crowds.
With fewer visitors, it’s perfect for a peaceful moment at night. Soak your feet and enjoy the soft city lights—a luxurious way to end your day.
Sky Promenade is located just beside Dogo Onsen Honkan. Facing the front of the Honkan, head to the left and you’ll find stairs leading to the slope of Mt. Kanmuri (Yuzan Shrine entrance). Climb the stairs and continue up the slope to reach Sky Promenade.
The walk takes just 2 to 3 minutes. As you leave the hustle of the Honkan behind, the view opens up—this journey itself is part of the experience.
(At the top of the slope, you’ll find Dogo Parking Lot and a public restroom.)
It’s also less than a 10-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Station, making it easy to incorporate into your sightseeing route.
Sky Promenade is a peaceful scenic spot where you can enjoy the warmth of a footbath with sweeping views of Dogo Onsen.
The sight of the town from the footbath, the lit-up Honkan at dusk, and the quiet charm of haiku and flowers—all create moments that beautifully enrich your journey.
Just a short walk leads you to stunning scenery and a tranquil retreat. When you visit Dogo Onsen, be sure to climb the slope and enjoy this little-known observation point.
