Matsuyama Castle is one of just twelve original castles still standing in Japan, crowning Mount Katsuyama in the heart of the city. Ride the ropeway or chairlift to the summit, then explore the beautifully preserved keep and stone walls while enjoying sweeping views over Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea.

Dogo Onsen is one of Japan's oldest and most celebrated hot springs, with a history stretching back more than 1,000 years. Its landmark wooden bathhouse, Dogo Onsen Honkan, is an Important Cultural Property whose elegant three-storey form is said to have helped inspire the bathhouse in the film Spirited Away. Soak in the legendary waters or simply admire the architecture.

Ishite-ji is the 51st temple of the famous Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage and one of Matsuyama's most atmospheric sights. Admire its National Treasure Niomon gate, the three-storied pagoda and the rows of stone statues, and feel the centuries of pilgrim devotion that fill the grounds.

Isaniwa Shrine is a striking vermilion-lacquered shrine perched at the top of a long stone stairway near Dogo Onsen. Built in the rare hachiman-zukuri style, it is one of only three shrines of its kind in Japan and offers lovely views back over the hot-spring town.

Dogo Park occupies the site of the former Yuzuki Castle, the medieval stronghold of the Kono clan. Today it is a peaceful green space with excavated ruins, a small museum, walking paths and seasonal cherry blossoms, just a short stroll from the Dogo Onsen hot-spring district.

Bansuiso is an elegant French-style villa completed in 1922 as the residence of Count Sadakoto Hisamatsu, a descendant of Matsuyama's feudal lords. Now an Important Cultural Property, it is one of Shikoku's finest examples of Taisho-era Western architecture, with refined interiors, stained glass and a hillside setting below Matsuyama Castle.

Dogo Haikara-dori is a lively covered shopping arcade leading up to Dogo Onsen. Browse local souvenirs, Ehime citrus treats and Imabari towels, sample regional sweets and street food, and catch the charming Botchan Karakuri Clock, which puts on a show with characters from Soseki Natsume's novel.

Dogo Onsen Station is a charming retro-style terminus built in 1911, the gateway to the Dogo hot-spring district. Here you can see the beloved Botchan Train, a restored Meiji-era steam locomotive named after Soseki Natsume's novel, and the nearby Botchan Karakuri Clock, making it a perfect photo stop.