Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime, is known as the oldest hot spring in Japan, with a history stretching back over 3,000 years. It’s mentioned in ancient Japanese texts and has long been loved by emperors, writers, and travelers alike. Today, it’s not only a historic bathing spot but also a lively hot spring town where tradition meets modern fun.
From Matsuyama to Dogo Onsen by Streetcar 🚋
After sightseeing in Matsuyama, hop on the retro tangerine-colored streetcar to Dogo Onsen!
In just about 20 minutes, you’ll arrive at Dogo Onsen Station, a charming little station that instantly sets the mood for your trip.
Right in front of the station stands the famous Botchan Karakuri Clock.
Every day from 8:00 to 22:00, dolls appear on the hour. During summer holidays and New Year’s, they even perform every 30 minutes! Many visitors wait in front of the clock, eager to see the show—it’s worth timing your visit to catch it.
Healing at Dogo Onsen Honkan, Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring ♨️
When you think of Dogo Onsen, the Honkan is the first place that comes to mind. Its massive wooden structure looks like something out of a movie, and stepping inside feels like a journey back in time.
Soaking in the hot spring melts away fatigue. As expected from Japan’s oldest hot spring, the water feels incredibly soothing and refreshing.
💡 First time visiting hot springs in Japan? Check out our Complete Guide to Onsen, Sento, and Sauna Etiquette before you go!
📌 Dogo Onsen Honkan Basic Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| Name | Dogo Onsen Honkan |
| Location | 5-6 Dogoyuno-cho, Dogo, Matsuyama, Ehime 790-0842 |
| Access | From Matsuyama City Station, take the streetcar to “Dogo Onsen Station,” then walk 5 minutes |
| Business Hours | 6:00–23:00 (last admission 22:30) |
| Closed | Open year-round (temporary closures for renovation/maintenance) |
| Fee | Adults from 420 yen, children from 160 yen (varies by bath) |
| Official Website | https://dogo.jp |
Exploring the Hot Spring Town & Local Sweets 🍵
After refreshing in the bath, stroll through the bustling Dogo Onsen shopping street. Souvenir shops and cozy cafés line the road, making every step exciting.
Don’t miss Ehime’s famous Ichiroku Tart. Served with a cup of traditional matcha, its yuzu-flavored bean paste feels light and refreshing—perfect for a trip snack.
We also came across a quirky souvenir vending machine selling mikan juice and local snacks. It’s a fun surprise that makes you stop and say, “Wow, only in Dogo Onsen!”
And while exploring, we even spotted a Gundam-themed manhole cover—a popular find on social media. Of course, we took photos right away!
A Summer Highlight: The Corridor of Wind Chimes 🎐
Seasonal attractions make Dogo Onsen even more special. In summer, we walked through the Corridor of Wind Chimes.
Colorful glass wind chimes swayed above us, filling the air with their gentle clinking sounds. The scene felt dreamy, and the cool atmosphere made us forget the summer heat for a while.
Footbath Café Cheers! 🥂
Our last stop was a footbath café, the perfect way to relax after walking around. Since it was summer, the footbath was filled with cool water—so refreshing for tired feet!
We ordered local drinks like Chibo Sour and Mikan Sour, and toasted while soaking our feet. The café also served light meals made with local specialties, so it turned into a fun, five-senses experience. Girls’ trip energy at its best!
Evening Feast at an Onsen Ryokan 🍶
At night, we enjoyed a luxurious dinner at a traditional onsen ryokan. Fresh sashimi, juicy meat, and seasonal vegetables filled the table. Paired with a glass of local wine, it was the perfect way to celebrate the end of the day.
Rediscover the Charm of Dogo Onsen ✨
Easily reached by streetcar from Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen combines historic hot springs with lively streets full of surprises.
Looking back on our day, here are the highlights you shouldn’t miss:
- Soak in Dogo Onsen Honkan, Japan’s oldest hot spring
- Watch the Botchan Karakuri Clock perform every hour
- Stroll the lively hot spring town with shops and cafés
- Taste Ichiroku Tart and other sweets with matcha
- Find unique surprises like the Gundam manhole & souvenir vending machines
- Walk through the colorful Wind Chime Corridor in summer
- Relax at a footbath café with Mikan Sour or Chibo Sour
You can bathe in Japan’s oldest onsen, savor local treats like Ichiroku Tart and mikan drinks, discover unique finds like the Gundam manhole, and relax at a footbath café. Add a ryokan stay with a feast, and you’ve got a playful hot spring town that’s perfect for a girls’ trip—or any traveler looking for a mix of tradition and fun!
