{"id":8062,"date":"2025-06-25T13:47:50","date_gmt":"2025-06-25T04:47:50","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/?p=8062"},"modified":"2025-07-03T15:11:38","modified_gmt":"2025-07-03T06:11:38","slug":"matsuyama-city-ehime-prefecture-a-bus-ride-from-fukuyama-to-matsuyama-model-itinerary-around-matsuyama-castle-day-1","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/destination\/8062\/","title":{"rendered":"[Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture] A Bus Ride from Fukuyama to Matsuyama \u2013 Model Itinerary Around Matsuyama Castle (DAY 1)"},"content":{"rendered":"<p class=\"p1\">Ehime Prefecture is connected to Hiroshima by the scenic Seto Inland Sea bridges.<br \/>\nI have always thought the best way to visit Matsuyama from Hiroshima was by renting a car via the Shimanami Kaido Expressway.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">But what if you\u2019re not confident in driving, or don\u2019t have a license? This seems like a big hurdle until I discovered a direct bus from Shin-Onomichi Station to Matsuyama City Station!<br \/>\nLet me share with you the travel experience on <b>Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)<\/b>.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">When you arrive at Matsuyama City Station, you can explore the famous sights around Matsuyama Castle on foot or with a charming streetcar.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">If this is your first visit to Matsuyama, please check out this itinerary.<br \/>\nLet\u2019s dive into the details!<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s1\"><b>\u25bc<\/b><\/span><b>Trip Overview (as of March 2025)<\/b><\/p>\n<div style=\"border: 4px solid #ffe6ee; padding: 2px;\">\n<div style=\"background: #ffe6ee; font-size: 100%; padding: 20px;\">\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\"><b>Destination:<\/b> Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\"><b>Departure:<\/b> JR Shin-Onomichi Station (Onomichi, Hiroshima Prefecture)<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\"><b>Schedule:<\/b> 1 night, 2 days<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\"><b>Travelers:<\/b> Solo<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\"><b>Total Cost:<\/b> \u00a529,860 (includes round-trip bus fare of \u00a57,800)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s3\"><b>\u25b6<\/b><\/span><b> Departure: JR Shin-Onomichi Station (Hiroshima)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8063\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7924-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7924-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7924-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7924-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Our journey begins at JR Shin-Onomichi Station, where the Shinkansen stops by.<br \/>\nFrom JR Hiroshima Station: 40 minutes on the Kodama bullet train.<br \/>\nFrom JR Higashi-Hiroshima Station: 26 minutes.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8071\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7931-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7931-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7931-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7931-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Once you exit the ticket gate and walk straight, you\u2019ll find a spacious waiting area.<br \/>\nThough there are benches at the bus stop, this area is convenient on bad weather days!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8083\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7930-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7930-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7930-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7930-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Right nearby is a souvenir shop offering everything from Hiroshima sweets to Onomichi ramen noodles and cute local mascot goods.<br \/>\nIf you\u2019re meeting someone in Matsuyama, picking up a souvenir here before departure would be a great idea.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8067\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8415-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8415-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8415-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8415-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">When it\u2019s time to board, just head toward the south exit marked for buses and taxis.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8087\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7919-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7919-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7919-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7919-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><br \/>\nThe Matsuyama-bound bus departs from Platform 2, and you will find an overhead signboard.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8079\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7920-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Shin Onomichi Bus Station\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7920-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7920-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7920-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Although the overhead sign doesn\u2019t say &#8220;Matsuyama,&#8221; the bus stop does have a large &#8220;<span class=\"s2\">\u677e\u5c71\u884c<\/span> (Matsuyama-bound)&#8221; sign.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s3\"><b>\u25b6<\/b><\/span><b> Operated by 4 Companies<\/b><\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">The Kirara Express Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line is jointly operated by:<\/p>\n<ul class=\"ul1\">\n<li class=\"li1\">Iyo Railway (Iyotetsu Bus)<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Chugoku Bus<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Shimanami Bus<\/li>\n<li class=\"li1\">Honshi Bus<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8095\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7934-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7934-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7934-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7934-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">This time, I rode a Honshi Bus vehicle\u2014bright orange and reminiscent of Ehime&#8217;s famous citrus fruits.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8099\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7937-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7937-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7937-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7937-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The interior had a 2&#215;2 seating arrangement (4 seats per row).<br \/>\nSeats are reserved, so you\u2019ll have an assigned spot.<br \/>\nSpacious legroom and comfy seating made for a pleasant ride!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8103\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7938-1024x768-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7938-1024x768-1.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7938-1024x768-1-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7938-1024x768-1-768x576.jpg 768w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">There\u2019s free Wi-Fi onboard, perfect for checking your itinerary or getting work done.<br \/>\nThere were no power outlets, so bring a power bank if you need to charge devices.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8107\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7942-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7942-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7942-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Though the bus doesn\u2019t stop for breaks, it does have a restroom onboard.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8111\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7952-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7952-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7952-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><br \/>\nA light near the driver indicates whether it\u2019s in use.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8091\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7955-768x432-1.jpg\" alt=\"Simanami-Kaido\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7955-768x432-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7955-768x432-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">You\u2019ll drive along the Setouchi Shimanami Kaido, with views of the beautiful island-dotted sea.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s3\"><b>\u25b6<\/b><\/span><b> Arrival: Matsuyama City Station (Ehime)<\/b><\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">After about 2 hours, we arrived at Platform B3 of Iyotetsu\u2019s Matsuyama City Station.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8115\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7964-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line)\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7964-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7964-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Now it\u2019s time to head toward Matsuyama Castle!<br \/>\nYou can walk about 25 minutes, or take the streetcar + a short walk (total 15 minutes).<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8119\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7968-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"tram\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7968-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7968-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">From B3, walk left and you will find the Matsuyama City streetcar station.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8123\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7970-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Okaido tram stop\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7970-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7970-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I just missed a streetcar, so I walked this time.<br \/>\nIf you use the streetcar, get off at Okaido Station.<\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s3\"><b>\u25b6<\/b><\/span><b> Let\u2019s Explore Matsuyama Castle!<\/b><\/h2>\n<p class=\"p1\">From Okaido Station, walk through the Ropeway Shopping Street to reach the ropeway terminal for the castle.<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\"><b>\u25fb\ufe0e<\/b><\/span><b> Lunch: Rich Sea Bream Ramen Noodles at \u201cManpuku\u201d<\/b><\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">Ehime is Japan\u2019s top producer of sea bream, so I was eager to try a dish using it.<br \/>\nJust a 2-minute walk from Okaido Station, I visited Matsuyama Tai (Sea Bream) Ramen Manpuku.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8127\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7973-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Sea Bream Ramen - Manpuku\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7973-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7973-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I ordered the salt-based sea bream ramen noodles and sea bream rice bowl.<br \/>\nDespite the seats being fully occupied, the food came quickly.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8131\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7979-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Sea Bream Ramen - Manpuku\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7979-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7979-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The ramen featured a creamy broth made from grilled sea bream bones was delicious. And hidden beneath the green onions, filled with a flavorful slice of sea bream, was so indulgent!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8135\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7990-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Sea Bream Ramen - Manpuku\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7990-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_7990-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I poured some of the ramen broth over the rice bowl for an extra boost of flavor. A perfect combo!<\/p>\n<p><b>Basic Info \u2013 Manpuku, Seam Beam Ramen Noodles<\/b><\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 120px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">11:00\u201317:00 (last order 16:30)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">Closed<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">Tuesdays<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">Google Maps<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/eJZcw1nqCVbY9fVi9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/eJZcw1nqCVbY9fVi9<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Phone<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">089-931-8122<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Official Website<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/w-harmony.jp\/shop\/manpuku\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/w-harmony.jp\/shop\/manpuku\/<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h3 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s2\"><b>\u25fb\ufe0e<\/b><\/span><b> Visit the Historic \u201cMatsuyama Castle\u201d<\/b><\/h3>\n<p class=\"p1\">You <i>can<\/i> hike up to Matsuyama Castle, but I heard it\u2019s a steep climb.<br \/>\nInstead, I headed to the Ropeway &amp; Lift Station.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8147\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8007-768x432-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle Ropeway\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8007-768x432-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8007-768x432-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">You can choose between a ropeway (with narration and shade) or a lift (no waiting time with breeze).<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8155\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8097-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle Ropeway\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8097-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8097-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">I took the lift since the ropeway had just departed.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8159\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8098-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle Ropeway\" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8098-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8098-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">The lift is a single-seater; hold your backpack in front and dangle your feet.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8171\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8101-768x432-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle Ropeway\" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8101-768x432-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8101-768x432-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><br \/>\nIf you are afraid of heights, I recommend you take a ropeway. I enjoyed the breeze and views on the lift, even though I am not good at high elevations.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8163\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8030-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8030-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8030-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">After the lift, it\u2019s a 10-minute uphill walk to the castle.<br \/>\nI was already feeling out of breath, so I recommend you allow plenty of time for breaks!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8143\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8051-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8051-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8051-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Inside the castle are various interactive exhibits.<br \/>\nMany visitors stopped at the samurai sword for the weight experience. The sword I took felt surprisingly light to me for some reason!<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8139\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8061-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8061-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8061-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">You\u2019ll also find samurai armor dressing experiences, with long lines, especially from international tourists.<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8167\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8064-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8064-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8064-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8151\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8044-768x432-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"432\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8044-768x432-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8044-768x432-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">There\u2019s even a photo spot, perfect for snapping a memory.<\/p>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8175\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8049-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8049-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8049-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">Once at the top, the view over Matsuyama and the Seto Inland Sea was breathtaking!<br \/>\nThe visit to the castle was surely worth a while!<\/p>\n<p><b>Basic Info \u2013 Matsuyama Castle<\/b><\/p>\n<table style=\"border-collapse: collapse; width: 100%; height: 120px;\">\n<tbody>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Hours<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Feb\u2013July, Sep\u2013Nov: 9:00\u201317:15<\/p>\n<p>Aug: 9:00\u201317:45<\/p>\n<p>Dec\u2013Jan: 9:00\u201316:45<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">Closed<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">3rd Wednesday of December (for cleaning)<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\">Google Maps<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; text-align: center; height: 24px;\"><a href=\"https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/22MvFPFZ1dSR1v1o9\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\">https:\/\/maps.app.goo.gl\/22MvFPFZ1dSR1v1o9<\/span><\/a><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Phone<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">089-921-4873<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr style=\"height: 24px;\">\n<td style=\"width: 29.8376%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\">Official Website<\/td>\n<td style=\"width: 70.1624%; height: 24px; text-align: center;\"><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/www.matsuyamajo.jp\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"nofollow noopener\">https:\/\/www.matsuyamajo.jp\/<\/a><\/span><\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<h2 class=\"p1\"><span class=\"s3\"><b>\u25b6<\/b><\/span><b> Summary<\/b><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" class=\"aligncenter size-full wp-image-8199\" src=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8074-768x576-1.jpg\" alt=\"Matsuyama Castle \" width=\"768\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8074-768x576-1.jpg 768w, https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/06\/IMG_8074-768x576-1-300x225.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 768px) 100vw, 768px\" \/><\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\">This time, I took a highway bus from Shin-Onomichi Station in Hiroshima to Matsuyama City Station in Ehime Prefecture, and&nbsp;explored the area around Matsuyama Castle.&nbsp;<br \/>\nBe sure to try visiting Matsuyama using a highway bus!<\/p>\n<p class=\"p1\"><strong><span class=\"s2\">\u21d2<\/span> Learn more about the Kirara Express Matsuyama\u2013Fukuyama Line:<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff;\" href=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\/CourseSearch\/13400090001?AreaCd=738\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\/CourseSearch\/13400090001?AreaCd=738<\/a><\/span><\/p>\n<p>&nbsp;<\/p>\n<div style=\"border: 5px double #91d8ac; padding: 10px; border-radius: 10px; text-align: center;\"><strong><span style=\"font-size: 14pt; color: #0000ff;\"><span style=\"color: #000000;\">If you want to make a reservation for an expressway bus,<br \/>\n<span style=\"color: #0000ff;\"><a style=\"color: #0000ff; text-decoration: underline;\" href=\"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/en\">Please go to &#8220;Japan Bus Online&#8221;<\/a>.<\/span><\/span><\/span><br \/>\n<\/strong>The information in this article is current at the time of writing.<br \/>\nIt may differ from the latest information.&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"Ehime Prefecture is connected to Hiroshima by the scenic Seto Inland Sea bridges. I have always thought the best way to visit Matsuyama from Hiroshima was by renting a car via the Shimanami Kaido Expressway. But what if you\u2019re not confident in driving, or don\u2019t have a license? This seems like a big hurdle until I discovered a direct bus from Shin-Onomichi Station to Matsuyama City Station! Let me share with you the travel experience on Kirara Express (Matsuyama-Fukuyama Line). When you arrive at Matsuyama City Station, you can explore [&hellip;]","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":8233,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[209,195],"tags":[],"area":[205],"interest":[280],"format_tax":[],"class_list":["post-8062","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-culture","category-destination","area-shikoku","interest-castle"],"acf":{"linktitle":"","link":false,"ctatitle":"","ctalink":""},"aioseo_notices":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8062","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=8062"}],"version-history":[{"count":6,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8062\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":8251,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/8062\/revisions\/8251"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/8233"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=8062"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=8062"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=8062"},{"taxonomy":"area","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/area?post=8062"},{"taxonomy":"interest","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/interest?post=8062"},{"taxonomy":"format_tax","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/japanbusonline.com\/bus-repo\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/format_tax?post=8062"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}