- A Stroll Through Dogo Shopping Street: Local Eats, Souvenirs & Travel Tips
- Explore the retro charm of Dogo Shopping Street with local specialties, souvenir picks, and helpful travel info—perfect for first-time visitors.
Explore the Charm of Dogo: 12 Sightseeing Spots for an Unforgettable First Visit
Located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen is Japan’s oldest hot spring area, renowned for its historic charm blended with art, gourmet delights, and culture.
This article introduces 12 carefully selected spots perfect for first-time visitors, all easily walkable and full of local character. From the moment you arrive at the station to the final soak in the hot spring, you’ll discover tips to make the most of your trip in this unique town.
Dogo Onsen Station｜Retro Station That Marks the Start of Your Journey
If you’re arriving by public transport, this is where your Dogo Onsen adventure begins.
As you step onto the platform, you’re immediately immersed in a nostalgic atmosphere and the warmth of the town. The Western-style wooden station building, reminiscent of the Meiji era, adds to the charm of your journey.
Right in front of the station, you’ll find iconic attractions like the Botchan Train and Botchan Karakuri Clock, which build anticipation for your exploration. At night, the station is beautifully lit up, offering a magical view that contrasts with the daytime scenery.
Botchan Train｜A Nostalgic Ride Through Meiji-Era Charm
The novel Botchan, written by literary giant Natsume Soseki in 1906, is set partly in Dogo Onsen.
The Botchan Train is a sightseeing train modeled after steam locomotives, evoking the Meiji era featured in the novel. With its wooden carriages and whistle sounds, it offers a nostalgic and immersive experience for visitors.
While the display train in front of Dogo Onsen Station is available for viewing anytime, you can also ride the actual train on weekends and holidays. Combining literature and history, this train offers a truly unique Dogo experience.
For the operating schedule of the Botchan Train, visit the official website of Iyo Railway.
Botchan Karakuri Clock｜A Quirky Landmark That Brings the Story to Life
Standing in the plaza outside Dogo Onsen Station, the 10-meter-tall Botchan Karakuri Clock is one of the area’s most iconic attractions. On the hour, characters from Natsume Soseki’s Botchan appear in a whimsical performance set to music. The charming show delights both children and adults, making it a perfect meeting spot or place to take a break during your sightseeing.
- Performs every hour from 8:00 am to 10:00 pm (every 30 minutes on Saturdays, Sundays, holidays, and special periods)
Dogo Shopping Street｜Your Base for Strolling, Snacking & Shopping
Connecting Dogo Onsen Station to the Dogo Onsen Honkan, this covered shopping street is the town’s main strip, bustling with locals and tourists alike. Lined with cafés, souvenir shops, specialty stores selling local mikan sweets, and the famous Imabari towel shops, it’s an ideal spot to explore between sightseeing. With a tourist information center and shelter from the rain, it offers a comfortable experience for first-time visitors.
Read more about Dogo Shopping Street
Dogo Onsen (Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, Tsubaki-no-Yu)｜Three Unique Bathhouses to Soothe Body and Soul
Dogo Onsen features three public bathhouses, each with its own character. All are within walking distance, making it easy to choose based on your schedule and preferences.
- Honkan (Important Cultural Property)
- A symbol of Dogo Onsen, this three-story wooden bathhouse retains the elegance of the Meiji era. With attractions like the “Kami-no-Yu” and “Rei-no-Yu” baths and the imperial bath “Yushinden,” it’s perfect for those who want to experience authentic hot spring culture and historical architecture.
- Click here for a detailed guide to Dogo Onsen Honkan
- Asuka-no-Yu (Annex)
- Inspired by Asuka-period architecture, this modern bathhouse blends art and comfort. From decorative interiors to projection mapping, it’s a visually delightful experience, especially popular among families and groups of friends.
- Click here for a detailed guide to Asuka - no - Yu
- Tsubaki-no-Yu
- A casual, local favorite perfect for spontaneous visits. The stone-built, simple interior offers a relaxing soak in pure hot spring water. Ideal for those looking to avoid crowds and enjoy a quiet moment.
- Click here for a detailed guide to Tsubaki - no - Yu
Each bathhouse embodies Dogo’s spirit of hospitality and history. Whether you start or end your day here, you’ll leave feeling refreshed in both body and mind.
Read more about Differences Among the 3 Dogo Bathhouses
Yu Shrine｜A Quiet Guardian Watching Over Dogo’s Hot Springs
Tucked away on a gentle slope behind the Dogo Onsen Honkan lies Yu Shrine, a small place of worship with a long history. Revered as the guardian deity of Dogo’s hot springs, it has been cherished by locals for generations. Its peaceful, calming atmosphere offers a perfect break from the bustle of the town—an ideal resting spot during your walk.
Read more about Yu Shrine
Sky Promenade｜A Hidden Gem with Free Footbaths and Panoramic Views
Located on a hill slightly removed from the tourist hustle, the Sky Promenade offers free-flowing footbaths and stunning views of the open sky. Sit on a bench, dip your feet in the hot spring, and relax to the sound of birds and breeze. It’s a peaceful moment perfect for recharging mid-journey—and best of all, it’s free to use.
Read more about Sky Promenade
Isaniwa Shrine｜A Striking Vermilion Shrine Beyond the Stone Steps
Located on a hill just beyond central Dogo, Isaniwa Shrine stands out with its vivid vermilion structure and long stone stairway.
The current building was rebuilt during the Edo period and features the distinctive “Hachiman-zukuri” architectural style, also seen at Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto. It’s a designated Important Cultural Property of Japan and holds great historical and architectural value.
Once you climb the stairs, you’ll be rewarded with a scenic view of the surrounding area.
- Visiting hours
- 9:00 am - 5:00 pm
- Regular holiday
- Open year - round
- Telephone number
- +081-89-947-7447
- Official site
- https://isaniwa.official.jp/
- Parking
- Parking for 57 cars behind the shrine (6:00 am - 6:00 pm, free for 1 hour for visitors)
- Address
- 173 Sakuradani - cho, Matsuyama - shi, Ehime
Dogo Park & Yuzuki Castle Ruins｜A Historical Haven Blended with Nature
Dogo Park is a historical site built on the remains of Yuzuki Castle, which once stood in this area.
The castle flourished during the Sengoku period as a central stronghold of the Iyo region. Today, the park is a tranquil space loved by locals and visitors alike, offering seasonal beauty throughout the year.
Within the grounds, you’ll find reconstructed samurai residences and a history museum, allowing you to learn about Dogo’s past while strolling through peaceful surroundings.
From the small observation deck atop the hill, you can enjoy panoramic views of Dogo. In spring, the park becomes a popular cherry blossom viewing spot.
- Business hours
- 9:00 am - 5:00 pm (Exhibit facilities)
- Regular holiday
- Closed Mondays (or the following weekday if Monday is a holiday), and Dec 29–Jan 3
- Telephone number
- +081-89-941-1480
- Official site
- https://dogokouen.jp/
- Parking
- ¥100 per 30 minutes (open 24 hours)
- Address
- Dogo Park, Matsuyama - shi, Ehime
Enmanji Temple｜A Charming Spot for Love and Photo Memories
Just a 3-minute walk from Dogo Onsen Honkan, Enmanji Temple is known for bringing good fortune in love and marriage.
The grounds are filled with photogenic features like colorful musubi-dama (wishing balls), a haiku love fortune, and ema-tama (wish plaques) that you can decorate and hang.
With its adorable and lively decor, the temple is a perfect place to make lasting memories during your Dogo stroll.
- Visiting hours
- 8:00 am - 6:00 pm (Jizo Hall)
- Regular holiday
- Open year - round
- Telephone number
- +081-89-946-1774
- Official site
- https://matsuyama - sightseeing.com/spot/54 - 2/
- Address
- 4 - 49 Dogo Yuzuki - cho, Matsuyama - shi, Ehime
Ura Dogo (Dogo Onsen Game Area)｜A Retro Nighttime Spot with Shooting Games and Gachapon
With its container-style exterior lit by lanterns and neon signs, Ura Dogo is a quirky nighttime entertainment spot just a few minutes from Dogo Onsen Honkan.
Try your hand at shooting games—8 shots for ¥500—and win a local drink like Pon Juice by knocking down all the targets.
The area is also packed with colorful regional gachapon (capsule toys), take-out sweets and drinks, and plenty of Instagram-worthy photo spots.
Open for just over a year, it’s already become a hit for its nostalgic, retro-style fun and warm glow from paper lanterns at night—a new twist on classic hot spring town entertainment.
- Business hours
- Weekdays & Sundays 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
- Saturdays 10:00 am - 9:00 pm
- Regular holiday
- Irregular holidays. Often closed on weekdays—check Instagram for updates
- Official site
- https://www.instagram.com/ura_dogo
- Address
- 3 - 13 Dogo Yuzuki - cho, Matsuyama - shi, Ehime
Dogo Art｜A Town-Wide Contemporary Art Experience
“Dogo Art” invites you to enjoy modern art while strolling through the hot spring town. Artworks are scattered throughout inns, shopping streets, and even footbath areas, making for spontaneous encounters with creativity. (Held for a limited time only)
In the past, events have included colorful installations at Asuka-no-Yu and immersive displays along Dogo Shopping Street—each time generating buzz for their artistic flair.
Vibrant floor installation at Asuka-no-Yu
In 2025, a new series titled “Dogo Art 2025” is set to launch, running from October 10, 2025 to February 28, 2027. Renowned photographer and filmmaker Mika Ninagawa will be among the participating artists. The event will feature projection mapping at Asuka-no-Yu and town-wide exhibitions across Dogo.
These artworks, harmonizing with the hot spring town’s ambiance, captivate all five senses and serve as perfect photo opportunities. Watching Dogo gradually transform into an art-filled town will be part of the excitement leading up to the event.
Fully Enjoy Your Day: Two Perfect Dogo Onsen Itineraries
We’ve introduced 12 must-visit locations. Below are two suggested itineraries that let you experience Dogo Onsen in one full day. Pick the one that suits your style and schedule.
1. Full Immersion: Enjoy Hot Springs and Sightseeing
This course is for those who want to explore everything Dogo has to offer. It efficiently covers all 12 spots featured in this article.
- Dogo Park Station
- Dogo Park & Yuzuki Castle Ruins
- Isaniwa Shrine
- Yu Shrine & Nakajima Shrine
- Sky Promenade
- Enmanji Temple
- Ura Dogo (Game Area)
- Dogo Onsen (Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, Tsubaki-no-Yu)
- Dogo Shopping Street
- Botchan Karakuri Clock
- Botchan Train
- Dogo Onsen Station
Start at Dogo Park Station (one stop before Dogo Onsen Station), and walk through the park, Isaniwa Shrine, and Yu Shrine. The beginning includes steps and slopes, so plan a break at the Sky Promenade’s footbath midway.
Then, enjoy Enmanji Temple and the game area, followed by the highlight—Dogo Onsen. Refresh your entire body and spirit. After your bath, browse souvenirs and enjoy sweets at Dogo Shopping Street to wrap up the day.
2. Hot Spring First: A Flexible Sightseeing Plan
This course begins with the highlight—Dogo Onsen—then explores sightseeing spots afterward. It’s perfect if you want to relax first and customize the rest of your day based on your interests and timing.
- Dogo Onsen Station
- Botchan Karakuri Clock
- Botchan Train
- Dogo Shopping Street
- Dogo Onsen (Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, Tsubaki-no-Yu)
- Enmanji Temple
- Sky Promenade
- Yu Shrine & Nakajima Shrine
- Isaniwa Shrine
- Dogo Park & Yuzuki Castle Ruins
- Dogo Onsen Station
Dogo Onsen: A Walkable Town Full of Ever-Evolving Delights
Dogo Onsen offers more than just hot springs. From retro station architecture to literary landmarks, art installations, shrines and temples, and even nostalgic nighttime entertainment—all are tightly packed within walking distance.
Each of the 12 recommended spots can be explored on foot, letting you mix and match based on your pace and preferences. As seasons shift and new shops or artworks appear, every visit brings something fresh to discover.
With the town constantly evolving—new stores opening, seasonal views changing, and art exhibitions rotating—Dogo Onsen never looks the same twice.
Even if it’s your first time, you’ll feel right at home strolling through this walkable town. We hope this guide helps you plan an unforgettable Dogo adventure.
