Situated just east of downtown Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen is an urban oasis where visitors from near and far can enjoy the mineral-rich natural hot springs water for which Japan is famous. The hot springs retreat is a place where imperial leaders once frolicked and played, and after spending some time here, it is not hard to see why. The onsen is almost magical, and its assortment of blooming flowers, lush green spaces, and ornate architecture will draw you in and never let go. Onsens are a way of life around many parts of Japan. They are known for their healing powers and are a good source of minerals and nutrients that the body needs to stay healthy. If you are looking for an indulgent experience while you stay in Matsuyama, look no further than the enjoyment that awaits you at Dogo Onsen.
About the Historic Facility
Coveted by the Imperial Family, who long ago entertained prestigious guests and dignitaries in the onsen’s healing hot springs water, Dogo Onsen has been an important landmark of the city, and of the island, for more than 3,000 years. At the onsen, visitors will find a large bathhouse and Japanese-style spa, which was constructed in 1894, along with gift shops, shrines, temples, gift stores, and restaurants. Throughout the years, the hot springs bathhouses have become a cultural hot spot and tourist attraction that is beloved by the young and young at heart.
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Things to Do in the Area
Dogo Onsen is more than just a natural hot springs – it is an experience. The oasis is situated on a large property where there are many things to see and do. This is a place where you can really get lost in the culture and history of the region. Walk in the footsteps of imperials, seek peace and healing in one of the Buddhist temples, and enjoy an abundance of natural scenery all around while visiting.
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1. Dogo Onsen Honkan
Dogo Onsen Honkan is the large ornate building that occupies the east side of the main property and is where the bathhouse is located. The building was constructed during the Meiji Period in 1894 and is made of fine stained wood and tile work. Located around the exterior of the building is brilliant detailing that was hand engraved by artisans of the region. Inside, guests will find a private Yushinden, which was once used by the Imperial Family to entertain guests. Visitors are welcome to check out the private honkan as part of a guided tour. The healing hot springs pools are still operational to this day, with men bathing in one section of baths and females bathing in the other. Located on the upper floors are private and communal tatami mat rooms where visitors can enjoy a meal, reflect, or just relax amid beautiful scenery for a while.
Dogo Onsen Honkan is open from 6am to 11pm daily.
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2. Dogo Onsen Annex Asuka-no-yu
A new-age onsen, Dogo Onsen Annex Asuka-no-yu made its debut in 2017. This onsen was designed based on Asuka architectural style, and it features a bright white facade with dark wood framing work. Inside, guests are treated to modern stone, wood, and tile work with contemporary art adorning the walls. The interior design work pays tribute to the history of the region in a new-age manner.
The annex features private and public bathing areas and has an expansive lounging facility in the center of the building. The interior is open and airy, allowing plenty of natural light to soak in. Dogo Onsen Annex Asuka-no-yu is open from 6am to 11pm daily.
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3. Enmanji – Love Temple
Enmanji – Love Temple is located on the grounds of Dogo Onsen and has been a staple of the region since as far back as the 9th century. Inside this small temple, guests are greeted by a large Buddha statue at the center altar. The local belief is that a visit to the temple brings visitors good luck in love and in health, so be sure to bring your significant other with you when you visit!
Enmanji – Love Temple is open daily from 8am to 6pm.
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4. Isaniwa Shrine
Standing regal among blooming flower gardens and an abundance of local foliage, Isaniwa Shrine is a stately wooden building that boasts a bright red facade and colorful detail work that was hand-engraved and painted by local artisans. The shrine you can visit today was constructed in 1667 and showcases architectural brilliance that was prominent during the Momoyama Period in history, but the property has been in use for well over 1,000 years. Isaniwa Shrine holds the distinct designation of being an Important Cultural Property and is considered to be one of the only three Hachiman-zukuri-style shrines still standing in Matsuyama. This building was erected in honor of God Hachiman, patron of warriors.
This shrine is open to the public for worship, tours, and weddings from 9am to 5pm daily.
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5. Dogo Shoutengai
While visiting Dogo Onsen, be sure to take a walk through Dogo Shoutengai, also known as the shopping arcade, to purchase gifts and souvenirs to commemorate your trip to the onsen. The arcade is located at the front entrance of Dogo Onsen Honkan, and it features a traditional Japanese ambiance, complete with lots of colors and lots of bright lights. In total, Dogo Shoutengai is home to more than 60 specialty shops and eateries, and spans a distance of 820 feet (250 meters). Within the arcade, you will find regional gifts, traditional Japanese trinkets, and a lot of other fun items to take home with you.
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6. Dogo Hot Springs Water Stone Receptacle (Yugama)
Enshrined in an open-air monument on the grounds of Dogo Onsen is the Dogo Hot Springs Water Stone Receptacle (Yugama), which is the oldest stone of its kind in all of Japan. The current carved Yugama was set in this location approximately 1,300 years ago, and it still spews natural hot springs water to this day. The stone monument and shrine are simple in design, but it is said that the stone watches over the city.
The Yugama is an outdoor attraction that you can visit during the day or at night.
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7. Dogo Park (Ruins of Yuzuki Castle)
An idyllic park where cherry blossom trees are in abundance, manicured gardens and shrubbery adorn the stone paths, and birds can be heard chirping away on any given sunny day, Dogo Park (Ruins of Yuzuki Castle) is a quiet oasis located on the hillside of Dogo Onsen and is home to the ruins of Yuzuki Castle. The castle is now mostly gone, but you can still walk in the footsteps of the Shugo Kono while checking out the beautiful views. The park is laden with walking trails, foot bridges that criss-cross over the central pond, grassy areas where you are welcome to throw a ball around, and shady spots were you can sit down and relax with a good book in hand.
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8. Minaguchi Brewery
Serving up fresh and local brewed sake since 1895, Minaguchi Brewery is the only existing sake and beer brewery located near Dogo Onsen. This brewery is situated in a traditional style Japanese building that boasts a bright white facade and dark wood detailing work. Minaguchi Brewery is home to the Nikitatsu brand of sake, a notable name in the region, and visitors are welcome to check out the city and learn more about the art of brewing beer and sake in Japan. The beer and sake are made with fresh and local ingredients, and the water is sourced from a deep well located under the brewery. While visiting, guests are invited to sample some drinks and shop for souvenirs in the gift shop.
Minaguchi Brewery is open from 9am to 4pm daily.
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