Dogo Onsen

Updated

Ehime Dogo Onsen | One of Japan's Oldest and Most Famous Hot Springs

Dogo Onsen Honkan began conservation and repair work on Jan. 15, 2019, while remaining open for business. The second floor and areas above, which have relaxation rooms, are closed, but you can take a bath on the first floor.

Out of all the hot-springs in Japan, Dogo Onsen is considered Japan's oldest and most famous hot springs. Located just east of central Matsuyama, Dogo Onsen has been serving tourists and locals alike for hundreds of years. Dogo Onsen also is a popular choice for royalty and nobility in Japan, most notable for serving Japan's Imperial Family. The main attraction to Dogo Onsen is the Honkan, a Meiji Period wooden public bathhouse, built in 1894. The interior is filled with multiple bath rooms, passages, and levels filled with bathers and staff. If Dogo Onsen looks familiar, it is probably because you've seen a similar looking bath house in the Ghibli Film "Spirited Away". It's believed Dogo Onsen served as the inspiration for the popular Miyazaki film.

Ehime Dogo Onsen | One of Japan's Oldest and Most Famous Hot Springs

Inspiration for Miyazaki's popular animated film Spirited Away

Inspiration for Miyazaki's popular animated film Spirited Away

In addition to serving as the inspiration to "Spirited Away", Dogo Onsen offers more than just hot-springs bathes. The Dogo Onsen Station nearby was built during 1895 using Meiji Style architecture and features a "Botchan" steam locomotive. Close by is the Botchan Karakuri Clock and foot bath. The foot bath is free for guests and is a great way to enjoy the Clock Show every hour. The clock features characters from the famous novel "Botchan" and comes to life with a small music show. After bathing, guests can enjoy shopping for Matsuyama specialties at the 250 meter long shopping arcade, or visit Dogo Park to view cherry blossoms in the spring. Ishiteji Temple and Isaniwa Shrine are also close enough to walk to after a zen-inducing bath in the hot-springs.

Whether you're a fan of Japanese history, hot-springs, or "Spirited Away", Dogo Onsen is the perfect family destination to experience Japan. Join us as we relax in the healing waters of Dogo Onsen during our line of Southern Japan Tours or Grand Tour Packages available in the Spring & Year-Round!

Ehime Dogo Onsen | Related Japan Tours

Essence of Spring | Southern Japan

Southern Japan

Essence of Spring | Grand Tour

Takayama & Villages | Grand Tour

Ehime Dogo Onsen | Related Pages

Ehime Prefecture

Ehime Prefecture

Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen

Ishiteji Temple

Ishiteji Temple

51st of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage

The streets of Unomachi

The streets of Unomachi

Old rustic feel town of life during the Edo period

Ghibli Museum

Ghibli Museum

Museum Designed by Studio Ghibli director Hayao Miyazaki in Tokyo

Tour of Hell

Tour of Hell

Highlight of sightseeing in Beppu; Eight different hells

Kurama Onsen Hot Spring

Kurama Onsen Hot Spring

Beautiful Open-Air Traditional Japanese Hot-Springs in Kyoto

Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle

One of Japan's twelve original castles; last reconstructed in 1820 when burnt down by lightening

Ooedo Onsen

Ooedo Onsen

Hot spring theme park where every day is festival

Ehime Dogo Onsen | Movie

Need Assistance? Call: USA/Canada 1-800-285-2726 Australia (02) 8006 4411 Contact Us Brochure