13 Popular Date Spots in Ehime: A Special Getaway with Scenic Views and Hot Springs

This scenic route across the sea connects six islands in the Seto Inland Sea by bridge and is also known as a mecca for cyclists.
With the exception of the Shin-Onomichi Bridge, each bridge has dedicated routes for motorized bicycles and for cyclists and pedestrians, allowing visitors to cycle while admiring the islands scattered across the Seto Inland Sea.
Rental bicycles make it possible to tour the islands at your own pace, and the simple experience of riding side by side may become one of your favorite memories of the trip.

Located at the summit of Mount Kirosan, this observation park is known as one of the Shimanami Kaido's leading scenic viewpoints. From the observation deck, visitors can see the entire Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge below, along with the islands of the Seto Inland Sea and downtown Imabari.
Other highlights include views of the currents in the Kurushima Strait, counted among Japan's three most powerful tidal currents, and an observation facility designed by Kengo Kuma. From dusk into the night, the lights of the bridge and city create an atmospheric scene.

Matsuyama's best-known castle stands on a hill overlooking the former castle town. It contains 21 Important Cultural Properties, including the main keep, and has many notable features such as the Ichi-no-mon and Shichiku-mon gates.
Inside the main keep, valuable historical materials are displayed, and visitors can try on armor or handle a replica matchlock gun, offering an engaging way to experience history and take photos.
The Ropeway Shopping Street and other attractions are nearby, making the area ideal for a leisurely stroll.

Dogo Onsen has a history spanning approximately 3,000 years. Its landmark, the Dogo Onsen Main Building, is a public bathhouse rebuilt in 1894 and designated as a National Important Cultural Property.
The building has two bathing areas, Kami-no-Yu and Tama-no-Yu, as well as a variety of plans that include access to lounges or private rooms.
Relax together amid the atmosphere of its historic wooden architecture and surrounding hot spring town.

The streets below Ozu Castle retain traces of the Edo through Showa periods. In recent years, renovated traditional houses have become accommodations, stores, and cafes, allowing visitors to explore the town, shop, and visit cafes while appreciating its historic scenery.
Historic buildings such as Ozu Castle, Garyu Sanso, and Ozu Akarengakan are also scattered throughout the area, providing plenty to discover together while strolling through the nostalgic streets.

This zoo makes use of the area's natural terrain, offering opportunities to observe animals living in spacious surroundings.
The grounds are divided into 10 zones by habitat and animal species. Behavioral exhibits are designed to reveal each animal's natural abilities and behavior, offering new perspectives on lions, giraffes, chimpanzees, and many other animals.
There is plenty to see, including Peace the polar bear, penguins, and orangutans, making the zoo a relaxing place to explore together.

Through exhibits on towel production and art, this museum introduces the culture of Imabari, Japan's leading towel-producing city.
Visitors can watch the towel manufacturing process and view exhibits that combine towels with art.
Inside are displays featuring colorful thread and towels, while the garden is decorated with seasonal flowers, providing many opportunities for photos.
The museum also has cafes and restaurants where visitors can take a relaxing break.

This castle stands close to the Seto Inland Sea and was built as a coastal fortress, complete with a seawater-filled moat and one of the largest boat basins in Japan. It is also known as Fukiage Castle.
Today, the tall stone walls, white main keep, and turrets are reflected in the broad surface of the moat, creating a striking view.
The main keep is open as a museum, and its top floor offers panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea, the Kurushima Strait, and the city.
Taking time to appreciate the scenery together may become a special memory of your trip.

This seaside station overlooks the Iyo Sea, with an open view of the water from its platform.
A popular location featured in movies, television dramas, and JR posters, it offers changing views of the sea throughout the day. The sight of the water glowing orange in the setting sun is particularly memorable.
Stand side by side on the quiet platform and watch the sun slowly sink below the horizon.

This adventure facility uses the forest's natural terrain to create an active outdoor experience.
The forest theme park features exhilarating zip lines and challenging treetop obstacle courses.
There are two courses with different difficulty levels, making it a fun place to take on challenges together. Hongu Onsen is also just a 1-minute walk away, so after an active day, visitors can wash off the sweat and unwind in the hot springs.

Located near the Shingu Interchange on the Kochi Expressway, this multipurpose facility presents the appeal of the Shingu area, one of Shikoku's leading tea-producing regions, in a variety of ways.
Visitors can sample sweets and meals made with Shingu tea and learn about tea culture through tasting experiences. The facility also has a day-use hot spring and cottages, providing a relaxing place to spend time surrounded by nature.

Located on the southern slopes of Mount Ishizuchi, this is one of Shikoku's largest gorges.
Walking trails run along the gorge, offering views of emerald-green waters and dramatic rock formations. Several routes are available, allowing visitors to select one based on their schedule and fitness level.
Each season offers a different experience, from spring flowers and fresh greenery to summer canyoning, autumn foliage, and snowy winter scenery.

Spanning Ehime and Kochi prefectures, the Shikoku Karst is counted among Japan's three major karst landscapes.
It extends across rolling hills at elevations of 1,000 to 1,500 m, and its expansive 360-degree views have earned its scenic road the nickname “Road in the Sky.”
From spring through fall, cattle graze across the pastoral landscape of Mezurudaira. Visitors can experience the area's vast natural scenery while driving or hiking.

Set on a hill overlooking the former castle town, this spot offers views of the illuminated main keep at night. After dark, the lights of the city spread out below, creating an atmosphere entirely different from the daytime.
The Honmaru Square at the summit is also a viewpoint overlooking the nighttime cityscape of Matsuyama.
Spend a quiet moment together while admiring the lights below.

Located in Itoyama Park, this observatory overlooks the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge and the Seto Inland Sea.
It offers panoramic views of the Kurushima Strait, known for one of Japan's three most powerful tidal currents, as well as the many islands scattered across the Seto Inland Sea and the impressive Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge.
At night, Itoyama Park provides views of the illuminated bridge and its lights reflected on the sea, all in a peaceful setting.

Located along National Route 319, this observatory overlooks downtown Shikokuchuo and the Seto Inland Sea.
It is known for its impressive 180-degree nighttime panorama. The city sparkles below, while clusters of paper mills to the east create a futuristic industrial landscape.
The dynamic combination of city lights and illuminated factories also makes it a popular stop on an evening drive.

This French restaurant in central Matsuyama serves seasonal ingredients from Ehime.
Its “Setouchi French” cuisine incorporates seafood from the Seto Inland Sea and locally grown vegetables. The restaurant also offers dishes that reflect Ehime's character, including a lunch-only course served on Tobe ware.
Located two streets away from Okaido Shopping Street, Matsuyama's main thoroughfare, the restaurant has a calm atmosphere and private rooms. It is suitable for an anniversary dinner or any evening when you want to enjoy a leisurely meal in a relaxed setting.

This restaurant serves creative dishes made with seasonal ingredients in a calm setting.
Its modern, relaxing interior includes tatami seating and private rooms, where guests can savor inventive cuisine.
The well-regarded monthly course features seafood and vegetables from the restaurant's own farm, combining attractive presentation with a leisurely dining experience.

This long-established Japanese restaurant serves regional cuisine made with local ingredients in a relaxed setting.
Founded in 1635, it offers dishes prepared with an abundance of local ingredients, including fresh red sea bream, Iyo Wagyu beef, and Hime Pork.
Its signature tai-meshi, other Ehime specialties, and local sake provide an extensive introduction to the region's flavors.

This hotel stands on a hill above the Dogo Onsen district and offers both scenic views and hot springs.
The top-floor panoramic public bath, which includes an open-air bath, overlooks the hot spring town and the city of Matsuyama, allowing guests to appreciate the view and celebrated waters at the same time.
Guest rooms range from Japanese-Western rooms to suites, and the hotel provides excellent access to the hot spring district. Blacklight art is displayed both inside the hotel and in Botchan Square in front of the building, providing another way to spend a relaxed evening.

Located in the center of the Dogo Onsen district, this hot spring inn is convenient for sightseeing.
Its open-air bath is on the 10th floor and offers views of Matsuyama Castle, Mount Ishizuchi, and the surrounding area. At night, guests can bathe beneath the stars. The women's open-air bath also features a rose bath from 5:00 pm to 10:00 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Rooms include traditional Japanese-style and modern Japanese options, providing a calm setting in which to spend time together.

Located in the Dogo Onsen district, this hotel makes it easy to explore the town and visit its public bathhouses.
The Dogo Onsen Main Building, Tsubaki-no-Yu, and Asuka-no-Yu are all within walking distance, making the hotel a convenient base for exploring the area. Guests can borrow from four original yukata designs and choose from a selection of Imabari towels with different textures, making it easy to head out for a stroll or a bath.
Other services reflecting Ehime's character include faucets dispensing mandarin orange juice and a breakfast buffet with a wide selection of dishes.