Run through the castle town with famous hot spring "Dogo Onsen"
This is a full marathon running through Matsuyama, a castle town famous for “Dogo Onsen,” one of the three oldest hot springs in Japan.
The marathon will start in front of the Ehime Prefectural Government Office, with the whistle of the “Botchan Train” blowing. The course takes an irregular turnaround and returns to the finish line at Shiroyama Park at the foot of Matsuyama Castle.
The scenery is never boring, with views of the sea, tunnels, Matsuyama Castle, and mandarin orange fields (participant comments).
Outstanding local hospitality, rooted in the culture of this town
The event offers a great chance to experience the town’s unique hospitality culture. Participants can enjoy a variety of local sweets such as Ichiroku Tart and Bocchan Dango, local citrus fruits and other specialties at the aid stations, foods such as baked sweet potatoes, and receive the Imabari towel as a finisher's prize.
After the finish line, there are many treats that you have never seen in other events.
In addition to food and drink, massage and taping services are also available, and after the race, you can heal your tired body in the Dogo Hot Springs.
The prompt and pleasant response of the volunteer staff is also worthy of special mention.
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Discover the Charm of the Host City
| 写真出典元： | いよ観ネット 松山市公式観光情報サイト 他 |
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Matsuyama City: A Cultural and International Hub in Ehime
With a population of around 500,000, Matsuyama has grown as the political and economic center of Ehime Prefecture. Known for its rich literary heritage and historic hot springs, the city also serves as a key cultural hub in the region. Designated as an International Tourism and Cultural City under a special 1951 law, Matsuyama actively promotes international exchange and cultural tourism.
Matsuyama Sightseeing Spots
1. Dogo Onsen: Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring with Timeless Charm
Dogo Onsen, said to have been discovered when a wounded heron healed itself in its waters, is one of Japan’s oldest hot springs with a 3,000-year history, celebrated in ancient texts like the Manyoshu and The Tale of Genji, beloved by literary figures such as Natsume Sōseki, and known for its iconic 1894 three-story wooden bathhouse—now an Important Cultural Property—offering natural, skin-friendly alkaline waters flowing directly from the source at around 42℃.
2. Matsuyama Castle：A Timeless Fortress in the Heart of Ehime
Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s twelve original castles that have survived since the Edo period. Completed in 1603, it stands atop Mount Katsuyama, offering sweeping views of the city and the Seto Inland Sea.
The multi-storied main keep is surrounded by stone walls, moats, and numerous turrets. Inside, visitors can explore a museum displaying armor, weapons, and historical artifacts.
This castle is a rare example of a hilltop fortress with a complex defensive design intended to confuse attackers.
3. The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage: A Journey of Spirit and Scenery
The Shikoku Pilgrimage, also known as the Shikoku Henro, is a sacred route that connects 88 Buddhist temples across Shikoku Island, Japan. It’s deeply associated with Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, and is considered one of the most profound spiritual journeys in Japan.
The pilgrimage begins at Temple 1: Ryōzenji in Tokushima and ends at Temple 88: Ōkuboji in Kagawa. There are 8 temples in Matsuyama City, including Ishite-ji Temple (#51 out of total 88 temples).
4. Retro Train Through Matsuyama
Step aboard the Botchan Train and explore the cultural heart of Matsuyama, where classic literature meets timeless relaxation.
A restored diesel-powered train designed to resemble the steam locomotives of the Meiji era.
Named after Botchan, the famous novel by Natsume Sōseki, who lived in Matsuyama.
Primarily operates on weekends and holidays between Matsuyama City Station, JR Matsuyama Station, and Dogo Onsen Station.
Gourmet Information
Ehime’s signature sea bream rice comes in two distinct regional styles rooted in local tradition; the prefecture also offers a playful experience where mikan juice flows from faucets—a popular tourist attraction inspired by a local joke and found in select spots around Matsuyama—and the beloved Ichiroku Tart, a traditional Japanese confection of yuzu-flavored sweet bean paste rolled in soft sponge cake, created by the long-established Ichiroku Honpo founded in 1883, which resembles a Japanese-style Swiss roll rather than a Western tart.
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