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In recent years, foreign tourists visiting Japan have been shifting their attention from major cities to rural areas. Ehime Prefecture, located in the Shikoku region, is particularly noteworthy. With Dogo Onsen in Matsuyama City and the Shimanami Kaido as its focal points, this area offers visitors a unique and profound experience, combining history, nature, gourmet food, and traditional crafts. This article thoroughly explains what foreign tourists can experience in Ehime Prefecture and what kind of trips are recommended. We provide comprehensive information from a foreigner's perspective, covering everything from cultural background and transportation options to the current state of inbound-friendly facilities, popular spots on social media, and unique experience options. We've compiled content to help you plan your trip, taking into account diverse needs such as English and halal-friendly options. Experience the depth of Japan through Ehime's traditions, nature, and warm people on a trip that offers an extraordinary experience. Whether you are a tour guide or a guide yourself, by the time you finish reading this article you will understand just how attractive Ehime is to foreign tourists.

An overview of Ehime Prefecture and why it's popular with foreigners

Ehime Prefecture, located in the Shikoku region, is an attractive region that combines scenic nature surrounded by sea and mountains with a rich historical culture. Matsuyama City, the central city of Ehime, is home to famous tourist spots such as Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle, and its location facing the Seto Inland Sea means that beautiful islands are scattered throughout the prefecture.

What is it about Ehime that you find appealing?

Why are foreign tourists attracted to Ehime? Some of the reasons include: – The tranquility and natural beauty away from the hustle and bustle of the city – The historical experience of Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs – The spectacular cycling along the Shimanami Kaido, a mecca for bicycle enthusiasts – Traditional cuisine and fruits (especially mandarin oranges) made with local ingredients – The progress of English-language support in tourist destinations and inbound tourism measures Many foreign tourists visiting Japan travel in search of Japanese culture and unique local "experiences." Ehime Prefecture has a wealth of elements that meet these needs, and this is cited as one of the reasons for its popularity in recent years.

Enjoy history and relaxation at Dogo Onsen

Known as the oldest hot spring in Japan, Dogo Onsen is one of the must-see spots for foreign tourists visiting Ehime Prefecture.

The main hot spring building where you can experience the world of Spirited Away

Dogo Onsen Main Building is said to be the model for the bathhouse that appears in Hayao Miyazaki's film "Spirited Away," and for many foreigners, it is a symbol of "quintessential Japanese atmosphere." You can experience history firsthand by soaking in the baths while admiring this architectural beauty, which was built from the end of the Edo period to the Meiji era.

English guidance and improved reservation system

Recently, multilingual information boards and audio guides have been installed, as well as an online reservation service in English, so you can use the hot spring without feeling any language barrier. The hot spring has also received high ratings from travel apps around the world, making it the perfect place to experience a Japanese hot spring for the first time.

Shimanami Kaido: Cycling around the Seto Inland Sea's spectacular scenery

The Shimanami Kaido is a 70km long road that connects Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture and Onomichi City in Hiroshima Prefecture via bridges, and is a spot where you can enjoy spectacular cycling views of the ocean.

A road that cycling fans around the world dream of

Among foreign tourists, especially cycling enthusiasts from Europe and America, the Shimanami Kaido is famous as "the world's must-ride cycling route." The reason for its popularity is that it offers rental bicycles and cycling maps in English, and safety is also taken into consideration.

Island-specific uniqueness and gourmet experiences

Each small island has its own unique culture and scenery, and you can stop by roadside stations and island cafes along the way to enjoy sweets made with Ehime's famous citrus fruits and the taste of fresh seafood.

Ehime's traditional crafts and experiences recommended for foreigners

Ehime Prefecture has many attractions that allow you to experience Japanese culture not only through tourism but also through "manufacturing."

Tobe ware: Pottery experience making your own pottery

Tobe ware, which is mainly produced in the suburbs of Matsuyama city, is a type of Japanese ceramics that is now loved overseas. Pottery-making experiences are also available for foreigners, and are popular because they allow you to make and take home traditional Japanese shapes and patterns with your own hands.

Japanese Candles and Washi Paper: Warm Light and the Preservation of Paper Culture

Other popular experiences include making Japanese candles and washi paper, which remain in the Ozu area. The workshop staff will carefully explain the process in foreign languages and also provide explanations on the cultural background, making this an experience that will deepen your understanding.

Ehime's unique food culture and restaurants catering to foreigners

Food, which strongly reflects the local flavor, is one of the main reasons foreigners travel to Japan.

Experience authentic Uwajima sea bream rice

Ehime Prefecture has two types of taimeshi (the Hokuyo type, which uses grilled sea bream, and the Nanyo type, which uses raw sea bream tossed in sauce and egg). In Uwajima, many restaurants are run by local fishermen, and the freshness and home-style taste are popular with foreigners as well.

Are vegetarian and halal options being catered for?

Vegetarian/vegan cafes and Halal-certified restaurants are gradually increasing, especially in Matsuyama and Imabari cities, and tourist information centers provide lists of these. If you check the information in advance, you can enjoy your trip with peace of mind.

Transportation and useful information in Ehime Prefecture

To make your trip comfortable, it is essential to check your transportation and information in advance.

Access from Matsuyama Airport to the city center

Matsuyama Airport is easily accessible from downtown Matsuyama, taking about 20 minutes by limousine bus. There are many English signs at the airport, and a support counter for foreign tourists is also set up.

English signs for trains and buses and tourist passes

English announcements are available on the JR Yosan Line and city trams. The "Iyonada Monogatari" sightseeing train, which offers special discounts for foreigners, is particularly popular and requires advance reservations. Ferries to the Shimanami Kaido are also available from Matsuyama Tourist Port.

Popular accommodations for foreigners and tips for booking

Choosing the right accommodation is also important to make the most of your stay.

Stay at a ryokan where you can experience Japanese culture

At the inns around Dogo Onsen, you can experience Japanese-style rooms, and the highlight is dining and bathing in the hot springs while wearing a yukata. Many facilities have English-speaking staff, and some even provide explanations of Japanese culture in the rooms.

Coworking and short-term lodging options are on the rise

As a new style of tourism, the number of accommodations that cater to "workation" is on the rise. They are also equipped with high-speed Wi-Fi and English manuals to accommodate foreign digital nomads.

Ehime Prefecture's Inbound Tourism Strategy

Ehime Prefecture is continually taking measures to attract foreign tourists.

Multilingual information at tourist information centers

In Matsuyama City and Imabari City, tourist information centers often have staff who can speak English, Chinese, and Korean, and pamphlets are available in each language. They are also working to improve hospitality by regularly holding foreign language seminars in the region.

Interaction programs with local residents

One of the attractions of rural areas is the increasing number of opportunities to interact directly with local people, such as through town revitalization events and private tours organized by volunteer guides. Such experiences will surely be a memorable part of any trip for foreigners.

summary

Ehime Prefecture is a destination packed with hidden Japanese charms for foreign travelers. Unlike busy urban areas, you can deeply experience Japanese culture through history, nature, and interactions with people. Relaxing in Dogo Onsen, driving along the Shimanami Kaido, experiencing traditional crafts, and savoring local cuisine—all of these will provide foreigners with an unforgettable Japanese experience. As tourism becomes more diverse, Ehime Prefecture is working to accommodate travelers with different languages, eating habits, and cultural backgrounds, evolving into a tourist destination that everyone can enjoy with peace of mind. For foreigners considering visiting Japan, Ehime is truly the "next stop." As a Japanese person, I would like to continue introducing Ehime's charms to as many people as possible.

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