Enjoy a private walking tour with a local guide and discover the most popular sites and the fascinating history and culture of Matsuyama. Choose from a 4 or 6-hour  tour, which can be customized to your interests. Benefit from a professional guide who holds a certification issued by the Japanese government that requires good knowledge and understanding of Japanese culture and history. With its abundance of cultural offerings, pleasant mild climate throughout the year, and the tranquil Seto Inland Sea to the west and the mountains to the east, Matsuyama features both the convenience of a city and the slow pace of the countryside.  Example 6-hour itinerary: Meet up with your guide in the morning at your hotel in Matsuyama and head off to the ancient Ishite-ji Temple, known as one of the 88 temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. See the national treasures displayed inside such as its three-story pagoda and its Sanmon Gate. Continue to the 3000-year-old Dogo Onsen, Japan’s oldest hot spring and an inspiration for the famous anime film “Spirited Away”. Experience an atmosphere of age and nobility as you walk around the main surrounding the hot spring. Take a break for lunch and sample the dishes of Matsuyama with recommendations of authentic dishes from your guide. After, start your journey for Matsuyama Castle on the Botchan Ressha, an old-fashioned train running through the town. Go through the Matsuyama Ropeway Shopping District to reach the Matsuyama Castle, famous for keeping its precious and historic appearance from the Edo Era. View its various exhibits and visit the castle tower for a spectacular view of the landscape. Most popular places to visit on this tour: • Dogo Onsen Honkan • Dogo Onsengai • Matsuyama Castle • Matsuyama Castle • Ninomaru Historical Garden • Ishiteji • Isaniwa Shrine • Bansuiso • Okaido Shopping Street • Botchan Train Museum • Ehime Prefectural Museum