2025 Imabari Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in April)

When talking about traveling in Japan, we often think of Tokyo or Osaka first. Little is known about Ehime, the tranquility of Ehime amid the hustle and bustle of Tokyo While others are wandering around popular places🚶we have walked through the streets and seaside of Ehime, leisurely savoring its unique Japanese style~ - 📍Destination: Ehime, Shikoku, Japan ✈️Transportation: Airplane (transfer to Songshan Airport) - [Guide to check-in at tourist spots] ❶Xiatan Station Spirited Away Holy Land Seaside Station🚉 Tourists come here admiringly The stop signs and station seats are the points where the film is released. Opposite is the blue sea, just take a photo and it becomes the wallpaper ❷The same maritime railway track from "Spirited Away" 10 minutes walk from Xiatan Station Walk down the path🛤️ You can see the romantic maritime railway track Feel like you are in an animation and feel the unique atmosphere ❸Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge Cycling resort Shimanami Kaido in Setouchi 🚴 The scenery of the cross-island bridge is quite spectacular, with a panoramic view of the sea🌊 You can rent bicycles at SHIMANAMI It takes about 5 minutes to ride to the bridge, which is very convenient🌉 ❹Guilaoshan Outlook Park The best time to go is in the evening on a sunny day Drive/cycle to the parking lot and then walk to the top You can see the beautiful sunset over the Seto Inland Sea🌅 ❺Orange juice comes out of the tap Songshan has a particularly interesting experience Orange juice comes directly from the tap here! Different faucets correspond to different flavors🍊 There are more than ten flavors 👅 fresh and delicious ❻Dogo Hot Spring There is a long history here. You can enjoy the hot springs and relax. The surrounding buildings are antique🍃There are general shops and exclusive private rooms upstairs (extra charge required) Tips: There are still private rooms reserved for the royal family for visiting (the walls are covered with gold foil) ❼Towel Museum The towels inside range from traditional to creative designs, which is dizzying. The production process is also shown, and the Moomin towel exhibition is great for making movies. ❽Starbucks Dogo Onsen Station Store The architectural style of this house is very distinctive Taking the photo from a distance, it feels like a movie location There is a commercial street next to it, so you can go shopping~ ❾Wolong Villa There is also a quiet place called "Wolong Villa" in Ehime, Japan. Stepping into the Japanese-style garden, the wind blows through the green bamboos. Sitting on the ground under the pavilion, sipping fragrant tea, looking up, the beautiful scenery in the courtyard is picturesque, and time seems to have stopped, with only the fragrance of tea and tranquility remaining.

Imabari Castle, located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, is also known as Fukiage Castle and is a symbol of Imabari. It was built by Todo Takatora, who was known as a master castle builder, and its triple moat draws in seawater and makes good use of nature, making it one of Japan's three great water castles. 🏯 In addition, drawing seawater into the moat allows ships to enter the castle directly from the sea, making it easy to transport cargo. 🚣 Although cargo is no longer transported by boat, you can see black porgy and sharks swimming in the moat🐟 Of course, the castle is cool, but it's also fun to look into the moat and look for fish in the sea🏯 📍#Imabari Castle 📍Address: 3-1-3 Toricho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture 794-0036 📍🕰️Business hours: 9:00-17:00 📍From Imabari Station on the Yosan Line, take the Setouchi Bus "To Imabari Office" for about 9 minutes and get off at "Imabari Castle Mae" #DomesticTrip #Imabari #CastleTour #CastleTour #Castle #ShikokuTrip #Shikoku #TodoTakatora #Mizuki #Mizuki

Omishima, located on the Shimanami Kaido, is an island of art! I went to the Imabari Toyo Ito Architecture Museum, one of the art museums scattered around the island. This is an art museum that exhibits the architectural works of famous architect Toyo Ito. All of the original and unique architectural works were worth seeing! Access: 2418 Urado, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime #Ehime #Omishima #Shimanami Kaido #Remote Island Tourism

Omishima, located on the Shimanami Kaido, is an island of art. There are art museums scattered around the island where you can enjoy art works. About 30 pieces are on display, including works by famous international artists such as Giacomo Manzu and other domestic artists. At the back of the museum, there is a terrace with a spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea✨ Access: 2362-3 Urado, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime #Ehime #Omishima #Shimanami Kaido #Remote Island Tourism

Oyamazumi Shrine in Omishima, Ehime Prefecture ⛩ This is a spot you can't miss if you go to Omishima! Inside the shrine grounds, there is a magnificent sacred tree that is over 2600 years old 🌲 It is a power spot. Oyamazumi Shrine is located near the center of Omishima, so it is easy to access. I visited the shrine early in the morning while taking a morning walk ♪ Access: 3327 Miyanoura, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime Prefecture #Remote Island Tourism #Shimanami Kaido #Omishima #Ehime

When I went to Omishima on the Shimanami Kaido and was wondering where to have dinner, I came across "Kitsune no Botan" which was highly recommended by the hotel staff and the shopkeepers in town❣️ I really wanted to go, so I went there😋 This izakaya has a very interesting menu of creative dishes, and the food is delicious! ! ✨ The restaurant is run by a married couple, and their conversation was wonderful, and you could tell how close they are. Access: 5512 Miyanoura, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime #RemoteIslandTourism #ShimanamiKaido #Omishima #Ehime

I was finally able to visit the Imabari Towel Museum, which I had seen in a guidebook and was curious about. ✨ Imabari City is where the highest quality towels in Japan are manufactured. I can understand if it's a towel museum, but an art museum? At first I couldn't imagine it, but after coming here I was convinced! It is truly an art museum. First, there is an introduction to the Imabari towel manufacturing process, then there are paintings of popular characters such as Moomin made from towels, Hawaiian quilts, and art made entirely from towels. There are many cute exhibits, so I think it's a spot that girls will love❣️ After the tour, there is a souvenir corner with a wide variety of Imabari towels. If you come to Imabari, please stop by☺️ 📍2930 Asakura Kamiko, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture #EhimeTourism #GirlsTrip #trip2022

I went to Imabari on a business trip! I wanted to do some sightseeing in the city! I finished my business early, so I went to Imabari Castle, the symbol of Imabari 🏯 Imabari Castle is easily accessible from the major hotels in the city! I managed to get there just 30 minutes before closing time and ran up about 140 steps lol (unfortunately there is no elevator) The inside of the castle tower is a museum, and many items of historical value are on display. I finished the main tour safely within the time limit, and when I looked at the moat, I saw that it was not a carp but a sea bream swimming there 👀 It is unique to Imabari Castle, which is connected to the sea. I was given some bread crusts by a local auntie, and it was my first experience feeding sea bream. Thank you to the auntie for this opportunity ❣️ 📍 3-1-3 Toricho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture #breathtakingview #castle #ehimetourism #trip2022

Oyamazumi Shrine stands tall on Omishima Island in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. I discovered it on a detour while cycling along the Shimanami Kaido. I visited just as the emperor was changing, and a religious ceremony was being held there, creating a very solemn atmosphere. By the way, it is located in the middle of the Shimanami Kaido, so you can access it by car or bicycle. There are quite a few ups and downs, but if you're in good shape, it's best to go by bicycle!! #Shrine #Breathtaking views

Kirosan Observation Park is located on Oshima Island, which is connected to Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture by the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge. The spectacular view from this observation deck is said to be the best on the Shimanami Kaido, and you're sure to be impressed not only during the day, but also at sunset and at night. A 360-degree panorama opens up, overlooking the Kurushima Strait, the islands of the Seto Inland Sea, Imabari City, and even the Ishizuchi mountain range if the weather is good. Kirosan Observation Deck, a spectacular spot, was designed by Kengo Kuma, and is worth seeing as an architectural work, attracting many tourists. Please come and visit! ! #Spectacular views #Couple trip #Summer trip #Ehime #Trip to enjoy spring #Free spot #Japan Genki Project 2021 #Amazing nature #Summer trip #Spectacular views #Trip to enjoy spring

Located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, on Japan's Shikoku Island, Imabari Castle is a unique water castle surrounded by seawater. Built by the feudal lord Todo Takatora during the early Edo period, it is one of Japan's three major water castles and is truly distinctive! 📍Highlights and Attractions Impressive Moat💦 The entire castle is surrounded by seawater, which used to connect directly to the Seto Inland Sea. This clever design was intended for defense against enemies. Today, the moat remains stunning, offering picturesque reflections of the castle for photography enthusiasts! 📍Reconstructed Tenshukaku⛩ The original castle keep (Tenshukaku) no longer exists, and the current one is a replica. Inside, you'll find a museum showcasing samurai armor, weapons, and historical artifacts, giving off a strong Sengoku-era vibe! 📍Sturdy Stone Walls🪨 The castle's stone walls are remarkably well-preserved, showcasing the advanced construction techniques of the time. You can even walk on them to immerse yourself in the historical atmosphere. 📍View of the Seto Inland Sea🌊 From the top floor of the Tenshukaku, you can enjoy a panoramic view of Imabari City and the Seto Inland Sea. The scenery is especially breathtaking during sunset! 💡Tips - Transportation: It's about a 15-minute walk from Imabari Station, or you can take a bus. ⏰Opening Hours: Usually from 9 AM to 5 PM (a small admission fee is required). If you're visiting Shikoku, Imabari Castle is definitely worth a stop for photography, sightseeing, and soaking in the history!📸✨

As autumn arrives, Jodoji Temple, located in Shinnyo Town, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, quietly gains popularity as a hidden gem for viewing autumn foliage. Stepping into the temple grounds, you'll be greeted by trees painted in vibrant shades of red and yellow, creating a serene atmosphere that feels as if time has slowed down. The contrast between the moss-covered stone steps and the old tiled roofs adds to the beauty, making it a must-visit spot for photography enthusiasts! One of the highlights of Jodoji Temple is its lack of over-commercialization, which means fewer crowds and the chance to enjoy the autumn scenery at your own pace. The morning's crisp air enhances the beauty of the leaves, while the soft afternoon light enveloping the temple grounds offers a unique charm. Take a leisurely stroll and immerse yourself in the tranquil autumn ambiance. 📍Basic Information (Check the official website for the latest updates) ✴︎ Address: 3 Shinnyo Town, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture ✴︎ Access: About 10 minutes by car from JR Imabari Station / About 30 minutes on foot ✴︎ Admission: Free ✴︎ Visiting Hours: No specific hours (Morning to late afternoon is recommended) If you're looking to escape the hustle and bustle of tourist spots and savor the quiet beauty of autumn, this is the perfect healing destination for you.

#Spring0yenTrip I visited Oyamazumi Shrine while traveling along the Shimanami Kaido, and was impressed by the atmosphere of the shrine, which seemed to be quietly nestled in the tranquility of the island. The grounds are very spacious, and a large camphor tree said to be 2,600 years old stands tall, with a presence that makes you look up. Surrounded by trees, the air is cool and clear, and I felt my mind calm. This is an old shrine dedicated to the god of the sea, and the treasure museum on the grounds displays many armors and swords donated by military commanders, making it a great space for history lovers. There were few tourists, so I was able to worship quietly, and it was a rare place where I could feel both nature and history in the relaxed time that is unique to the island.

2025.4.3 Visit Kaizan Park, located near the top of Mount Kaizan on Hakata Island, is a famous cherry blossom viewing spot. Every spring, the entire mountain is covered in blooming cherry blossoms, including Somei Yoshino cherry trees and about 1,000 other cherry trees. The parking lots are all flat, there are several of them, and there are also toilets, which is very convenient. There is traffic control during the cherry blossom season (point A for going up the mountain, point B for going down the mountain). There are clear signboards at the entrance and exit, and there are traffic personnel directing along the way, so there is no need to worry about taking the wrong road. There is a small oden shop on the top of the mountain, which smells super delicious~ But I didn’t buy any because I had just finished lunch when I visited. Sitting under the cherry blossom trees, enjoying the breeze and looking at the Seto Inland Sea in the distance, it is very comfortable and leisurely. There is also a wooden observatory on the top of the mountain, from where you can see the islands in the Seto Inland Sea, the three bridges across these islands, and the Shikoku Mountains and the Chugoku Mountains. When I visited that day, the blue sky and white clouds matched the light blue water, which was really beautiful. It is said that the lanterns for viewing cherry blossoms at night are also very beautiful. Generally, early to mid-April is the best time to view Somei Yoshino cherry blossoms. 📍Address: Ikata, Hakata-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: 24 hours 💰Average Consumption: Free🆓 💞Recommended reason: Lots of parking lots🅿️ Cherry blossoms are in full bloom 🗓️Itinerary: Kaishan Park》Eat barbecue and ice cream at the rest stop🍦 #2025樱花 #March2025 #Japan #Hot Springs #Travel #Ehime #Imabari #Hot Spring

Imabari City is located in Ehime Prefecture, facing the Seto Inland Sea. It is not a very famous city, but it has gradually transformed into its own characteristics. In the past, Imabari was mainly based on fishing and shipbuilding. As the times changed, it lost its glory, just like Jiufen in Taiwan. Now, it has risen from the decline and designed a landscape that is very suitable for cycling activities or competitions. Gradually, there are more foreign athletes and travelers who come here to roam by bicycle. Exchange air between the countryside and the city, and replenish the body with relaxing nutrients. Especially the "Kuishima Bridge" between the islands is a favorite route for cyclists. Today, I finally got to see the true face of Mount Lushan. Riding a bicycle under the warm spring sun is also an activity worth experiencing in Imabari City. #日本四国 #今巴市 #自行车时光

Imabari towels are well known as a specialty of Ehime, and this time we will introduce the Imabari Towel Museum. This is an interesting tourist spot where you can see not only the towel-making process, but also art works made from towels! If you come to Imabari, be sure to visit this museum. The museum also has a large shop where you can purchase Imabari towels, so it's perfect for choosing souvenirs for your home or friends. 🧺Spot name: Towel Museum 📍Location: 2930 Asakura Kamiko, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: 9:30-18:00 *Gallery tours are available until 30 minutes before closing. 💰Price per person: Adults ▶︎1,000 yen Junior high and high school students ▶︎800 yen Elementary school students ▶︎600 yen *Other discount systems available #Domestic travel #Ehime #Spring 0 yen trip

Introducing the roadside station Tatara Shimanami Park, a spectacular spot where you can see the world's leading cable-stayed bridge, Tatara Bridge, located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture. Because it is a roadside station, there is also a market and souvenir shop selling locally grown vegetables and fish! It was perfect for picking up souvenirs. It is a popular tourist spot for resting and stopping off for those driving or cycling. 🌉Spot name: Roadside station Tatara Shimanami Park 📍Location: 9180-2 Iguchi, Kamiura-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture 🕰️Business hours: *Business hours vary depending on the shop and restaurant. Please check the business hours calendar on the official website in advance. 🚘Access: It is located right after getting off the Nishi-Seto Expressway at Omishima IC! #Domestic travel #Ehime #Spring 0 yen trip

Introducing the spectacular spot "Kirosan Observatory" in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture ✨ Kirosan Observatory, located at an altitude of 301.1m, is designated as part of the Setonaikai National Park◎The interestingly shaped observation deck is said to have been designed by the world-famous architect Kengo Kuma!! From the Kiro Mountain Observatory, you can see the world's first triple suspension bridge, the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the Kurushima Strait, and the highest peak in western Japan, Mt. Ishizuchi. 🏔️Spot name: Kiro Mountain Observatory 📍Location: 487-4 Minamiura, Yoshiumi-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture 🕰️Opening hours: 24-hour access ※Open all year round 💰Admission fee: Free 🚘Access: Car▶︎Approximately 15 minutes from Oshima Kita IC #Domestic travel #Ehime #Spring 0 yen trip

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] The most delicious seafood bowl! Family Restaurant Yoshikawa♪ "Yoshikawa" is located right in front of the city hall! (^^) This restaurant is popular with families, and the seafood dishes are especially great! There are times when there is a line, and it is often difficult to get in (^^) Please come and try it (^^) [Location] 5714-15 Miyanoura, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime Prefecture [Access] Bus stop Miyanoura Port/About 1 minute walk from Setonaikai Kotsu Bus stop Miyanoura Port/About 2 minutes walk from Setonaikai Bus Bus stop Miyanoura Nokyo/About 2 minutes walk from Setonaikai Kotsu #0 Yen Trip February 2025

The Murakami Kaizoku Museum is a place where you can experience the history of the Murakami Kaizoku, who were active in the Seto Inland Sea during the Warring States period. Here, you can learn about the lives and tactics of these pirates, known as some of the largest in Japan, through valuable documents and videos. In the museum, models of weapons and ships that were actually used are on display, allowing you to experience the strategies and wisdom of these pirates who dominated the seas. In addition, in the theater that makes full use of the latest digital technology, you can enjoy powerful images of the battles of the Murakami Kaizoku. This is a must-see spot for history lovers, and it is also recommended to visit in conjunction with sightseeing on the Shimanami Kaido. Why not immerse yourself in the world of the Murakami Kaizoku along with the spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea? #0 Yen Travel February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] A simple art museum! Omishima Art Museum (^ ^) This art museum is located opposite Oyamazumi Shrine (^^) It has about 1,000 pieces of contemporary Japanese painting, including works by Toshio Tabuchi, Koichi Takeuchi, and Chinami Nakajima, who are active as central figures in the Japanese art world! (^^) The museum exhibits works from its collection as well as special exhibitions that are not limited to any particular genre, allowing you to enjoy the exhibition at your leisure in a relaxed atmosphere! We recommend visiting Oyamazumi Shrine as a set (^^) Please be sure to go (^^) [Location] 9099-1 Miyanoura, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, 794-1304 #0 yen trip February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] A beautiful spot with a spectacular view! Kurushima Kaikyo SA! (^^) Kurushima Kaikyo SA is an experiential area where you can enjoy the Setouchi with the concept of an "unusual space" created by the sea, islands, and bridges of the Setouchi (^^) The observation terrace on the second floor is a spectacular spot where you can see the Kurushima Strait and the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge, the world's first triple suspension bridge, as well as the large and small islands floating in the beautiful Seto Inland Sea ♪ There are also massage chairs that you can use for free (^^) There is a wide variety of souvenirs! Imabari towels are also sold (^^) Please go and check it out (^^) #0 yen trip February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] You can eat the legendary luxury fish! Tatara Shimanami Park (^^) Located almost in the center of the Shimanami Kaido, this roadside station is located at a great viewpoint overlooking the beautiful cable-stayed bridge, Tatara Ohashi Bridge (^^) There is also a souvenir market, a vegetable and citrus section, and a restaurant! And if you come here, you can eat the legendary luxury fish, red spotted grouper (^^) [Location] 9180-2 Iguchi, Kamiura-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime Prefecture [Access] Bus stop Omishima BS / About 4 minutes walk from Setouchi Bus Bus stop Omishima BS / About 5 minutes walk from Setonaikai Kotsu Bus stop Iguchi Port / About 27 minutes walk from Setonaikai Kotsu #0 yen trip February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] A cedar tree about 2,600 years old! Power spot! Oyamazumi Shrine (^^) This shrine is called the general guardian deity of Japan and has over 10,000 branch shrines nationwide (^^) In the center of the shrine grounds sits a sacred tree, a large camphor tree that is about 2,600 years old, and the group of camphor trees in the shrine was designated a national natural monument in 1951 as the oldest group of camphor trees in Japan's primeval forest! (^^) [Location] 3327 Miyanoura, Omishima-cho, Imabari-shi, Ehime Prefecture, 794-1393 [Access] 60 minutes by bus from JR Imabari Station. Take the express bus to Omishima and get off at "Oyamazumi Shrine-mae", then walk for 1 minute. 15 minutes by car from Shimanami Kaido, Omishima IC #0 yen trip February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] Pray for recovery from illness and eradication of epidemics! Gion Shrine⛩️ The origin of Gion Shrine dates back to 869, when an epidemic spread across the country, and Emperor Seiwa instructed the shrine to welcome the spirit of Susanoo-no-Mikoto from Gion, Kyoto, and pray for protection from the epidemic (^^) Originally, this shrine was founded as "Suga Shrine", but after the spirit of Susanoo-no-Mikoto was enshrined, it was newly rebuilt as "Gion Shrine"! ^ - ^ Gion Shrine was later enshrined together with "Mishima Shrine" located in the former Toriu Village, and became affectionately known as "Gion-san" by local people. Even today, the Gion Festival, held on June 14th of the lunar calendar, attracts many worshippers who pray for recovery from illness and the elimination of epidemics. Please come and see it! [Location] 1-1-63 Gion-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture #0 Yen Travel February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] Jippoji Temple has a long history! (^^) It was founded around 1640 by the fourth head priest of Enkoji Temple, Shuhachi Tokoro, and has continued to be a Soto Zen temple to this day (^^) Throughout its long history, this temple has supported the faith of the local community, maintained deep ties, and continued to protect its traditions ^ ^ The main hall was rebuilt in 1922, and the kuri was rebuilt in 1924. As a result, Jippoji Temple continued to function as a base of faith in the local community, both physically and spiritually. [Location] 3-1-3 Kitatoriu-cho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture [Access] About a 23-minute walk from Exit 1 of Imabari Station #0 Yen Trip February 2025

🇯🇵 [Ehime Prefecture] One of the New Shikoku Mandala Sacred Sites! "Bekku Oyamazumi Shrine" (^^) This shrine is a branch shrine of Oyamazumi Shrine, which is located on Omishima Island in the Seto Inland Sea. It is also known as one of the New Shikoku Mandala Sacred Sites (^^) It is said to have been founded by order of Emperor Mommu, and during the Edo period, it was well protected by successive Imabari feudal lords, including Todo Takatora (^^) Please go and check it out (^^) [Location] 3-6-1 Bekkucho, Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture [Parking] Available. 8 spaces (^^) #0 yen trip February 2025

Roadside Station Tatara Shimanami Park, located on the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido, is a popular rest spot for cyclists and drivers. From here, you can get a close-up view of the beautiful cable-stayed bridge, Tatara Bridge, and enjoy the spectacular view of the Seto Inland Sea. Another attraction is the local specialties and fresh seafood available here, and the mahata sushi is particularly delicious. The delicious flavor of the fatty mahata goes perfectly with the vinegared rice, making this a local delicacy that can only be enjoyed here. Be sure to stop by during your drive or cycling trip on the Shimanami Kaido! #0YenTravelFebruary2025