The city of Matsuyama is known for its hot springs, castles and literature. Masaoka Shiki, the father of modern haiku, called Matsuyama his "dear home town". Matsuyama is also well-known for its samurai. Visit the museum dedicated to their memory to see a recreation of their armor, swords and other weapons. You can even try your hand at samurai combat or haiku writing at the many haiku post boxes scattered throughout the city.

Matsuyama City Repainting

Originally painted in 2019 by Brooklyn-based artist Tomokazu Matsuyama, the mural is a reflection of the diverse nature of the city itself. It depicts a multitude of cultural elements, from kabuki characters to Japanese traditional painting techniques and even a few street art styles.

Matsuyama's most famous mural is a multi-layered depiction of the city by Brooklyn-based artist Tomokazu Maatsuyama. Its two storied design represents the city's diverse cultural elements, from the traditional to the contemporary.

While the work is technically a public art piece, Matsuyama had to get permission from the city to paint it on a pillar of the North Canon Drive. Matsuyama negotiated a contract with the city under the condition that it would only be a temporary work. If the city decides to preserve, sell or relocate the work, it must first obtain Matsuyama's approval.

Other notable sites in the city include Dogo Onsen, Japan's oldest hot spring and a location featured in the novel Botchan, and Matsuyama Castle, where one of only 12 castle towers still exists. In the outskirts of the city, Ishiteji Temple is an ancient site with an impressive statue-lined tunnel complex that leads to a second inner temple. The city is also home to Tobeyaki pottery, which you can learn about and try your hand at at a number of local facilities.

During the spring, experience the 松山市 塗り替え City Oshiro Matsuri, a festival with a long history that has been held annually since 1872. This event is a great opportunity to see samurai and other citizens dressed in authentic costumes parade around the city center. You can also enjoy a wide variety of events such as samurai combat demonstrations, chambara (sword fighting show) and local food presentations.

Matsuyama offers a full menu of gourmet delights, including fresh seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and a rich selection of citrus fruits. Be sure to try the famous confectionery of Ehime, a speciality of Matsuyama Prefecture, and Mitsuhamayaki, a local soul food that features whole sea bream. Then, wash it all down with mellow local sake or freshly squeezed orange juice! Matsuyama City is easy to get to via train or bus, and it's only an hour by plane from Tokyo. This compact city is a must-visit for those who are interested in the diverse cultures of Japan.