Located on the western coast of Shikoku Island, Ehime, Japan, stands as a lively witness to the ancient history of the sacred island. This hidden gem attracts travelers worldwide with its historic sites and refreshing natural surroundings. Join us to uncover five remarkable locations that make Ehime a must-visit destination.
Bansuiso
Bansuiso is an exciting place that combines French elegance with Japanese history. It was built in 1922 by Count Sadakoto Hisamatsu, a member of the Matsuyama clan. This beautiful villa served as a residence and a guesthouse. The Count lived in France for some time, and the villa’s design reflects the fancy French style of that time. The architect, Shichiro Kigo, worked hard to make Bansuiso match what the Count liked about Western buildings, leading to its stunning appearance that people still admire today.
Throughout its history, Bansuiso has been a place for social gatherings, attracting notable figures from various artistic fields and even members of the Imperial Family. The well-kept architecture showcases graceful chandeliers, exquisite moldings, and elaborate fireplaces, giving visitors a peek into a past era of luxury and sophistication. Today, Bansuiso welcomes everyone and holds many events and exhibitions to celebrate its history and cultural importance. As a result, they can enjoy the villa’s cozy old-fashioned rooms, each with its unique atmosphere.
Matsuyama Castle
Matsuyama Castle is one of Japan’s most captivating and well-preserved castles on Mount Katsuyama. Built from 1602 to 1628, it has a long history. The Matsudaira family initially owned it until the end of the feudal era, and it is currently undergoing many renovations. However, its central tower, built in 1820, still stands as a testament to its enduring legacy.
It’s also a former feudal castle with well-defended gates and a big central tower with multiple parts like wings and turrets. Inside the castle, you can also see exhibits about Matsuyama’s history and the feudal period. This castle offers fantastic Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea views, especially from late March to early April when over 200 cherry trees bloom. As a result, it creates a beautiful sight for cherry blossom viewing.
Towel Museum
Ehime Prefecture is Japan’s top producer of towel products. Imabari in Ehime, Japan, is a city famous for making towels for more than 120 years and has almost 200 factories that make towels from cotton. Among its attractions is the Towel Museum, a diverse facility providing insight into the art of towel production. Founded in 1974, this place aims to present towels as more than just every item but as pieces of art. Overall, the Towel Museum’s main exhibition area is where you’ll find beautifully designed towels.
Besides its role as a museum, the Towel Museum offers an immersive experience centered on towel culture, blending history and art. Visitors can travel through the towel-making process and admire colorful yarn displays. They can also check out exhibitions featuring beloved characters like the Moomins. Furthermore, the picturesque European-style garden provides a peaceful backdrop for leisurely strolls or meals at the onsite restaurant and cafes.
Are you looking for some delicious snacks from areas like Ehime, Japan? Check out Sakuraco! Sakuraco delivers traditional Japanese snacks, teas, sweets, and snacks from local Japanese makers directly to your door so you can enjoy the latest treats directly from Japan!
Yusumizugaura Terrace Field
The Yusumizugaura Terraced Fields, located near the Uwa Sea, presents an impressive display of agricultural innovation. These fields are built on steep slopes and are held up by solid stone walls. They rise at a steep angle of about 45 degrees, showing how clever people can be when working with nature.
With a history spanning over 400 years, these terraced fields have been an integral part of the region’s agricultural heritage. Designated as one of Japan’s top 100 landscapes of farm villages and a “National Important Cultural Landscape”, they represent the harmonious blend of farming and fishing traditions.
At the base of the fields, visitors can enjoy tasty dishes made with fresh fish and veggies at the Dandan tea shop. Also, don’t forget to attend the annual Dandan Festival in April. This festival celebrates the rich history and beauty of the terraced fields with lively events and delicious local cuisine.
Visitors are treated to amazing views of the Uwa Sea while standing amid these terraced fields. The landscape, which some people say looks like farming reaching up to the sky, lets you imagine how hard people worked long ago. Plus, make sure you walk along the narrow paths through the fields. You can see the stone walls up close, carefully built by Japanese ancestors.
Ehime Prefectural Science Museum
Ehime Prefectural Science Museum, established in 1994, offers an exciting journey into nature, science, and technology. The museum was designed by a famous architect named Kurokawa Kisho. Its modern style combines different shapes and materials to make it look fascinating.
Without a doubt, the best part of the museum is the fantastic planetarium, which has one of the most giant domes in the world. Here, visitors can see the beautiful night sky in a new way. When you enter the museum, it looks like a towering cone made of glass and steel, welcoming visitors to explore its spiral walkway and discover its wonders.
In addition to its indoor exhibits, the museum’s outdoor display area features industrial marvels like power generation turbines and smelters. Not to mention, green and scenic mountains surround them. Moreover, the museum hosts various educational programs and captivating planetarium shows, ensuring a rewarding experience for visitors.
Why should I visit Ehime, Japan?
Discovering Ehime, Japan, is an adventure filled with history, culture, and natural wonders. Whether exploring the artistic displays of the Towel Museum or admiring the stunning views and rich heritage of Matsuyama Castle, Ehime promises unforgettable experiences for every traveler. So, why plan your visit today and discover the wonders of this fantastic prefecture for yourself? Leave a comment below and share your thoughts!
