Things to do with kids in Matsuyama

Things to do with kids in Matsuyama

1. See

   Bansuiso

   萬翠荘

   This French-style building was constructed in 1922 for the former lord of Matsuyama Castle, Hisamatsu Sadakoto (久松定謨). After having lived and studied in France, Hisamatsu became enamored with the romantic architectural style, and hired Kigo Shichirō (木子七郎) to build his villa. This Taishō Era estate was the venue of many parties for the elite in its heyday, and the Emperor made it a point to visit whenever he was in the area. It is boused as an annex of the Museum of Art. The first floor's gallery changes throughout the year and is free, while the collection on the second floor showcases ink paintings by Shiki, Sōseki, and other Ehime residents.

   Tue-Sun 09:40-18:00, closed 29 Dec-5 Jan·¥100 adults, ¥50 children

2. Do

   Ehime Children's Castle

   えひめこどもの城 Kodomo no Jō

   This vast playground (350,000 m²) consists of five play zones with slides, roller coasters and even workshops for cooking and crafts. Great for families and couples.

   Tue-Sun 09:00-17:00, closed Dec 29-Jan 1·¥300 adults, ¥100 children

3. See

   Iyo Kasuri Folk Craft Museum

   伊予かすり会館

   Learn about the process of making Iyo's signature cloth and then create some of your own. Reservations necessary.

   Closed · opens 8:10 am·¥50 adults, ¥40 children

4. See

   Matsuyama Castle

   松山城

   Situated on the 130-m-tall Katsuyama Hill in the center of the city, this sprawling fortress is one of three remaining multi-wing, flat hilltop Japanese castles. It was constructed by the feudal lord Katō Yoshiaki (加藤嘉明) over the course of 25 years, completed in 1627. Four of its eight strategic gates are designated national cultural treasures, and with the wealth of historical artifacts within its majestic walls — swords and armor belonging to the three occupying families, calligraphy and official documents from the feudal era (English available) — Matsuyama-jō is well worth the hike. The castle is accessible by hiking a wooded trail, but the ropeway (¥500 roundtrip) can be boarded at the east entrance.

   09:00-17:00, closed 29 Dec·¥500 adults, ¥150 children

5. See

   Matsuyama Central Park

   松山総合公園

   Curiously styled as a European fortress wall and atop a hill high enough to parallel the castle, Matsuyama Sōgō Kōen provides a panoramic view of Matsuyama and features a playground for children.

   24 hours·Free

6. Do

   Matsuyama Putt Golf

   パットゴルフ松山コース

   A family-friendly mini-golf course just outside of Matsuyama. Managed by a Canadian expat and his wife.

   Mon-Fri 12:30-20:00, Sat Sun 10:00-20:30·¥1000 (3 games)

7. See

   Ninomaru Historical Garden

   二ノ丸史跡庭園

   Located southwest of the castle on the hillside, Ninomaru Shiseki Teien is another excellent point for viewing the city. The ruins of the Matsuyama Clan estate are preserved and celebrated in a romantic mixture of contemporary fountain designs and ancient garden aesthetics. Viewable from the castle's donjon, mystical Takigi Nō (nocturnal plays by bonfire) performances take place here throughout the year, and families enjoy picnics in its quiet serenity. Many cultural events (tea ceremonies, doll exhibitions, drum performances, etc.) are hosted here.

   Closed · opens 9 am·¥100 adults, ¥50 children

8. See

   Tobe Zoo

   とべ動物園

   It's south of Matsuyama. Tobe Dobutsuen is the destination for viewing over 190 species of animals, particularly "Peace" the polar bear. Though more spacious than its previous grounds and the silhouette animal footprints leading to the entrance are endearing, the zoo may leave much to be desired for those not used to Japanese zoological standards.

   Tue-Sun 09:00-17:00, closed Dec 29-Jan 1·¥300 adults, ¥100 children

9. Do Not mapped

   Kami no Yu 1F

   神の湯

   The "Bath of the Gods" is a simple public style bath in a pseudo-Mediterranean setting. Towels and soap are not provided but can be cheaply rented at the front. Includes access to the Exhibition Room and Botchan's Rooms.

   Open now · closes 11 pm·Adults ¥400, children ¥150

10. Do Not mapped

    Kami no Yu 2F

    神の湯

    Bathers can use the lounge, wear a Dōgo yukata, and have tea with sembei (rice cracker) for 60 minutes. Includes access to the Exhibition Room and Botchan's Rooms.

    Open now · closes 10 pm·Adults ¥800, children ¥400

11. Do Not mapped

    Tama no Yu 2F

    霊の湯

    The "Bath of the Spirits" 60-minute course includes use of Kami no Yu, lounge, a yukata, snacks, towel, the two aforementioned rooms and a 15 minute Yushinden tour.

    Open now · closes 10 pm·Adults ¥1200, children ¥600

12. Do Not mapped

    Tama no Yu Private Room 3F

    霊の湯

    This course is 80 minutes. The room is private, and the provided yukata has a heron design. Botchan dango (rice dumplings) are served.

    Open now · closes 10 pm·Adults ¥1500, children ¥750

Listings from the Wikivoyage guide to Matsuyama (CC BY-SA 4.0).