Hotels in Matsuyama

Matsuyama: Where Timeless Castles Meet Serenity in Nature

Nestled on Shikoku Island, Matsuyama is a captivating blend of history and natural beauty. The heart of this charming city beats around the iconic Matsuyama Castle, perched atop a hill with panoramic views of the rugged coastline. Explore Shiroyama Park's serene landscapes, dotted with monuments and temples that reflect the rich culture of the region. Don’t miss the Dogo Onsen, one of Japan's oldest hot springs, perfect for relaxation. With its vibrant museums and historic ruins, Matsuyama offers an enchanting escape for culture lovers and adventurers alike, inviting you to immerse yourself in its unique allure. For the best hotel rates in Matsuyama, be sure to check out Hotels.com's Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window on travel.

Top locations to stay in Matsuyama

Some of the best places to stay in Matsuyama are Dogo Hot Spring and Okaido. Matsuyama is a fantastic destination for travelers, with Dogo Hot Spring offering a historic onsen experience and Okaido providing vibrant shopping and dining. Dogo Hot Spring is particularly ideal for first-time visitors, immersing them in traditional Japanese culture. Accommodations in both areas range from comfortable ryokans to modern hotels, ensuring a pleasant stay. Many hotels feature soothing hot spring baths and cozy rooms, making Matsuyama a perfect spot for relaxation and exploration. Here are some of our travelers' favorite hotels in Matsuyama:

1. Dogo Hot SpringOpens in a new window: Dogo Hot Spring is a culturally rich destination renowned for its wellness and relaxation offerings. Visitors can experience the historic Dogo Onsen, a beloved hot spring, while enjoying the romantic backdrop of Matsuyama Castle. The area is also home to the Shiki Memorial Museum, immersing travelers in local culture. For accommodations, consider Yamatoya HontenOpens in a new window and Yamatoya BessoOpens in a new window, both 4.0-star ryokans that provide a thematic hot spring experience with onsite natural hot springs and public indoor and outdoor baths. Dogo-KanOpens in a new window is another appealing option, a 3.5-star ryokan with excellent hot spring amenities, perfect for travelers seeking rejuvenation.
2. OkaidoOpens in a new window: Okaido offers a vibrant cultural experience, with attractions like Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle nearby, making it a great spot for exploring local history and relaxation. The Shiki Memorial Museum further adds to its cultural significance. For hotels, Hotel MyStays MatsuyamaOpens in a new window and Daiwa Roynet Hotel MatsuyamaOpens in a new window are both 3.5-star establishments offering a variety of dining options and entertainment amenities, including satellite TV and comfortable rooms. Additionally, ANA Crowne Plaza Matsuyama, an IHG HotelOpens in a new window caters to business travelers, featuring multiple meeting rooms and a fully accessible business center, making it a versatile choice for all types of visitors.

Things to do in Matsuyama for first time

A visit to Matsuyama offers a perfect blend of stunning natural landscapes and rich cultural experiences. Explore serene beaches, lush mountains, and tranquil parks while enjoying activities like hiking, boating, and soaking in relaxing onsens. This three-day getaway promises a captivating journey through history and nature. Here's a quick itinerary to make the most of your trip to Matsuyama:

• Day 1: Start your journey at Daichiin Temple, a serene spot perfect for reflection and appreciation of traditional Japanese architecture. After soaking in the tranquility, make your way to Tobecho Tougeisoukakukan, where you can explore unique local crafts and enjoy beautiful views of the surrounding landscape. Wrap up your day at Masaki Harbor, a picturesque location ideal for a leisurely stroll by the sea, where you can savor fresh seafood at local eateries and watch the sunset over the water.
• Day 2: Begin your day with relaxation at Minara Natural Onsen Riraku, where you can soak in the rejuvenating hot springs that are a staple of Japanese culture. Following your rejuvenation, head to Namekawa Keikoku, a stunning valley perfect for hiking and experiencing nature's beauty. End your day at Shirai Fall, a breathtaking waterfall where you can enjoy the sound of cascading water and take in the lush surroundings, making it an ideal spot for photography.
• Day 3: Kick off your day at the Tobeyaki Traditional Industry Museum to learn about the fascinating history and techniques of the region's pottery. Next, venture to Shikoku Karst, a vast area of unique limestone formations, offering excellent hiking trails and panoramic views. Conclude your adventure at Daihoji Temple, where you can appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and beautiful gardens, providing a perfect ending to your explorations in Matsuyama.

5 tips to find a great Matsuyama hotel deal

1. Book for the cheapest times: The most affordable times to visit Matsuyama are June, September, and December, when hotel rates drop significantly. For international travelers, it's best to book your flight at least 6 months in advance to secure cheaper prices, while domestic travelers should aim to book at least 1 month ahead. To fully appreciate the city's charm and its key attractions, such as Matsuyama Castle, temples, and museums, plan to stay for at least 1-2 days. This way, you can enjoy a budget-friendly trip that offers great value for money.
2. Look for last-minute deals on Hotels.com: Looking for last-minute deals to Matsuyama? You could find great discounts on Hotels.com by checking the DealsOpens in a new window or Last-Minute DealsOpens in a new window sections, where prices are often lower as your travel date approaches. To stay in the loop about potential savings, consider enabling email alerts or push notifications from Hotels.com, so you're more likely to catch flash sales and special promotions. Remember, comparing prices can help ensure you’re getting the best rate for your Matsuyama getaway.
3. Be flexible with dates: Hotel prices can fluctuate due to factors like the location, star rating, and time of year. As a result, being flexible with your travel dates may help you save on hotel expenses in Matsuyama.
4. Consider your location: When booking on Hotels.com for your holiday, take your location into account. Staying near key attractions or city centers can offer convenience, but it usually tends to come at a higher price. For more affordable options, consider hotels in less central areas or neighborhoods, finding a balance between cost and easy access to the places you plan to visit.
5. Upgrade with One Key: Become a member of Hotels.com's free One Key rewards program when booking your stay in Matsuyama. Earn points for your hotel bookings and progress through Blue, Silver, Gold and Platinum tiers. Unlock a range of exclusive rewards, including room upgrades when available, discounted rates, and member-only offers. Join today.

What to eat in Matsuyama

Here are a few top-recommended restaurants in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan:

• アサヒ: A beloved local gem in Matsuyama, this restaurant is renowned for its innovative take on traditional Japanese cuisine. The menu features fresh, locally sourced ingredients that highlight the unique flavors of Ehime Prefecture, often blending classic techniques with modern twists to create memorable dishes.
• 四川飯店: This popular eatery specializes in Sichuan cuisine, offering a unique fusion that reflects Matsuyama's diverse culinary landscape. Known for its bold flavors and creative spice blends, the restaurant delights visitors with dishes that pay homage to both local ingredients and Sichuan cooking methods, resulting in an unforgettable dining experience.

Best time to go to Matsuyama

Matsuyama experiences its lowest average temperature in January, at 42.3°F (5.7°C), while August is the hottest month, with an average temperature of 79.9°F (26.6°C). June is usually the wettest month. April, July, and September are the peak travel months in Matsuyama, attracting a higher number of tourists. During this peak period, the weather is mostly sunny, with light to moderate rainfall. On the other hand, October to December tend to be quieter times to visit, marked by light rainfall and mostly sunny conditions.