Dogo Onsen Guide: Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring and Matsuyama’s Crown Jewel in Ehime
Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture is Japan’s oldest continuously operating hot spring resort — with over 3,000 years of history and the iconic Honkan main building (1894) that inspired Studio Ghibli’s Spirited Away. This comprehensive guide covers the different bathing options and their prices, the history behind this extraordinary place, how to get there from Hiroshima and other cities, what to eat in Matsuyama, the best ryokan for an overnight stay, nearby attractions including Matsuyama Castle and Ishite-ji Temple, and all the practical tips first-time visitors need for an unforgettable onsen experience in Shikoku.
