In the northwestern part of the island of Shikoku you will find Ehime Prefecture. The name translates as “Beautiful princess” and alludes to the lovely scenery and mild climate. Bordered by the Inland Sea and the Shikoku Mountains, it is sheltered from many of the typhoons that pelt the southern side of the island.
Historically known as Iyo, the prefecture is was known for its sailors and fishermen, and even today, shipbuilding is a large industry. The main destination for visitors is the capital city, Matsuyama, famous for its castle and Dogo Onsen, which claims to be the oldest public bath in Japan.
Matsuyama Castle
Ehime Prefecture was also the birthplace of Natsume Soseki, author of Botchan, who is the face on the 1000 yen bill. Other points of interest are Uwajima, known for its bullfights, and Mt. Ishizuchi, the tallest mountain in Western Japan. Temples 40 through 65 on the Shikoku Junrei are located in Ehime.
A Giant Stone Buddha at Koushou-ji Temple
Ehime can be reached by ferry or air. There is also a series of bridges linking Ehime to the main island, Honshu, via six smaller islands.
Shimanami Kaido Bikeway
The Shimanami Kaido, as it is called, is the only place where visitors can access Shikoku on foot or bicycle as well as car. Because there are no major elevation changes, many people enjoy renting bicycles to cross it for a pleasant tour of the scenic Inland Sea.
dogo onsen honkan in Ehime
For more information: http://www.iyokannet.jp/english/index.htm
