Dogo Onsen

Dogo Onsen is a hot spring resort in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, well-known as the oldest hot spring in Japan. The three-story Dogo Onsen Honkan is said to be the model for a bathhouse featured in the popular animation movie “Spirited Away.” This impressive structure has undergone multiple extensions and renovations, resulting in a maze-like layout. The building consists of two bathing areas and lounges, as well as a special bath area specifically created for use by the imperial family, a one of a kind in Japan and open to the public for viewing only. The building is under repair and restoration until 2024, making this the first onsen restoration project in Japan for public national important cultural property baths that will continue operations while under repair.

Only a three-minute walk away from the Hokan building is its annex, Asukanoyu, constructed in the architectural style of the Asuka period (552-646), which offers the unique experience of allowing visitors to take a bath in a “yukata (casual cotton kimono)” as was done in ancient times. In front of the bathhouse is a long stretch of around 60 different kinds of establishments, such as restaurants, sweet shops and souvenir shops. You can, of course, find Ehime's renowned specialty, Imabari Towels for a souvenir.