We Rank Ehime Prefecture’s 10 Top Tours

Ehime Prefecture offers a compelling mix of culture, history, and local craftsmanship that makes it a fantastic destination for guided tours. Whether you’re walking through the historic streets of Matsuyama or exploring the serene mountains and coastlines, there’s an experience to match every curiosity. I personally love the Small-Group Walking Tour of Matsuyama and Minakuchi Brewery for its intimate pace and opportunity to learn local legends while making your own sake label. Traveling in Ehime, you can experience not just sights but also hands-on workshops like candle making or paper crafting, adding a deep layer to your trip.

What really stands out is Ehime’s blend of culture and scenic beauty, with tours that range from private bespoke day trips to more relaxed group outings. Some tours, like the All in One Matsuyama Day Tour, offer customization, perfect for travelers wanting a personal experience, while others such as the Audio Guided Tour in Matsuyama Castle provide compact, insightful explorations of iconic landmarks. Whatever your style, there’s a tour designed to enrich your visit.

1. Small-Group Walking Tour of Matsuyama and Minakuchi Brewery

Starting from Dogo Onsen Station, this tour combines cultural sights with a chance to create your own sake label. The walk takes you through Isaniwa Shrine, a building over 1000 years old, and the historic Dogoyuzukicho Enmanji Temple. The highlight is Dogo Onsen Honkan, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, designated as an Important Cultural Property. The tour finishes at Dogo Haikara Street, a lively shopping arcade filled with local shops and cafes. What makes this tour unique is the hands-on experience of making a personalized sake label, which adds a memorable craft to your visit.

The tour is praised for its engaging guide, Miwa, who shares fascinating stories about the sights and takes care of her group. At just $68 for about 2.5 hours, it offers great value for a rich cultural experience. Ideal for those who enjoy walking, history, and local food, this tour balances sightseeing with personal interaction.

Bottom Line: A relaxed, cultural walk with a special sake-making twist—perfect for first-time visitors wanting a taste of Matsuyama’s traditions.

2. Matsuyama Private Customizable Full Day Tour

For those seeking flexibility, this private full-day tour offers complete customization. You work with a guide to craft an itinerary based on your interests and pace. Whether you want to explore historic sites like Matsuyama Castle, visit a peaceful mountain temple, or stroll through local neighborhoods, this tour adapts.

Once booked, you’ll fill out a form detailing your preferences, from visiting Ryōtarō Shiba’s cultural sites to panoramic city views. The tour can include serene retreats, traditional temples, or cultural landmarks, making it ideal for travelers who prefer tailored experiences. The price, about $334.61 per person, reflects its exclusive focus and flexibility. Reviews highlight the tour’s ability to fit individual desires, turning a day in Matsuyama into a fully personal experience.

Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want complete control over their day and personalized insights into Matsuyama’s highlights.

3. Audio Guided Tour in Matsuyama Castle

If you prefer exploring at your own pace, this audio tour offers a simple way to get detailed information about Matsuyama Castle. For just $7.84, you can download an engaging guide that reveals fascinating facts about the castle’s defenses and architecture. The guide is designed to make your visit more interactive, with stories that bring history alive, even if you’re traveling solo or with a small group.

The 30-minute to 1.5-hour format fits easily into a busy sightseeing schedule. One reviewer mentioned that the “interesting information about the castle defenses, wrapped into a fun story,” made the experience more memorable. It’s perfect for history buffs and tech-savvy travelers who enjoy self-guided exploration without sacrificing depth.

Bottom Line: An affordable, flexible way to deepen your understanding of Matsuyama Castle without the need for a guided group.

4. Traditional Japanese Candle Making and Uchiko Walking Tour

This hands-on experience is a rare chance to learn Japanese candle making—specifically, Warosoku, which has been produced for over 200 years. You’ll start at the Kamihaga Residence Wax Museum, where a craftsman guides you through creating your own candle. Afterwards, explore Uchiko’s historic districts, walking through charming streets filled with traditional shops. The tour ends with a peaceful tea time featuring matcha and local sweets, making it a full sensory experience.

At $429.34, this is a premium offering aimed at those who want to actively participate in traditional crafts. The focus on craftsmanship and cultural heritage makes it stand out. The workshop’s intimate setting, combined with the opportunity to create something tangible, appeals to art lovers and craft enthusiasts alike.

Bottom Line: A unique, craft-based experience offering deep cultural engagement, best suited for those interested in traditional Japanese arts.

5. All in One Matsuyama Day Tour Private Taxi for Up to 9 Guests

This private taxi tour provides a flexible, comfortable day exploring Matsuyama and surroundings for groups up to nine people. It’s perfect if you want to see multiple sites without the hassle of public transportation. The spacious vehicle, equipped for luggage and children’s seats, makes long-distance travel easier. You can customize your itinerary, hitting spots like the castle, Taisanji Temple, or local parks.

Pricing at $683.41 per group, this offers a good deal for groups wanting personalized service and convenience. The reviews emphasize the comfort and ease of travel, making it ideal for families or small groups with specific interests.

Bottom Line: For travelers wanting a private, tailored experience with maximum flexibility, especially in a group setting.

6. Gilded Washi Tapestry Making and Paper Factory Tour in Uchiko

If you’re into crafts and traditional arts, this 3-hour tour combines a factory visit with a hands-on tapestry-making experience. You’ll tour a Japanese Paper factory that’s over 100 years old, then learn to create a gilded washi tapestry using a blend of local paper and French techniques. The workshop includes a guided walk through the craft’s history and the chance to make your own piece to take home.

At $251, the tour offers a compact but enriching immersion into Japanese paper arts. It’s suitable for craft lovers who want to understand the meticulous process behind washi production and create a unique souvenir. The workshop’s emphasis on traditional techniques makes it a memorable cultural highlight.

Bottom Line: Ideal for craft enthusiasts seeking an authentic hands-on experience in Japanese paper arts.

7. Shimonada Station and Matsuyama Castle Private Tour

This 8-hour private tour combines the picturesque Shimonada Station, famous for its film appearances, with a visit to Matsuyama Castle. You’ll travel in a VIP bus, enjoying comfort and style, with options for a retro bus or a modern vehicle. The tour is perfect for lovers of scenic spots and historic architecture, offering panoramic views and cultural storytelling.

The itinerary includes personalized stops, with the guide tailoring the day to your interests. The price, around $1176 per group (up to 15), reflects its luxury and personalized service. Reviews note the flexibility and the ability to see multiple key sights comfortably.

Bottom Line: A premium, scenic-focused day for families or groups wanting a tailored, luxurious sightseeing experience.

8. Local Washi and Paper Craft Cycling Tour in Uchiko Town

This 4.5-hour cycling tour is perfect for active travelers interested in Washi and local craftsmanship. You’ll cycle along riverside routes, visit a traditional paper workshop, and create your own washi sheets and a handmade notebook. The tour also includes discovering Uchiko’s quirky origami vending machine and exploring the Ikazaki Kite Museum.

At $231.24 per person, it offers a good balance of activity, culture, and creativity. The tour’s blend of cycling and hands-on craft makes it a lively way to learn about Uchiko’s paper-making tradition. It’s especially suited for those comfortable on a bike and eager to combine physical activity with cultural discovery.

Bottom Line: A fun, engaging way to see Uchiko’s arts and crafts scene by bike, perfect for energetic travelers.

9. Ozu Private Customizable Full Day Tour

This full-day private tour in Ozu allows you to craft an itinerary that suits your interests. You might visit the Ozu Castle, explore a traditional Japanese villa, or stroll through local parks. The tour begins with a detailed form, so your guide can customize your experience, whether you’re into history, architecture, or nature.

With a price of approximately $278.54 per person, it emphasizes personalized service and flexibility. It’s best for travelers who want to avoid cookie-cutter tours and prefer a bespoke experience that highlights Ozu’s quiet charm and historic sites.

Bottom Line: Great for travelers seeking a tailored, in-depth exploration of Ozu’s cultural and historic highlights.

10. Matsuyama Private Customizable Half Day Tour

In just four hours, this private tour offers an efficient way to see Matsuyama on your own terms. You select what interests you most—perhaps the Matsuyama Castle, Taisanji Temple, or the ruins of Yuzuki Castle. The guide helps craft an itinerary suited to your pace, making it ideal for busy travelers or those with limited time.

At $365.96, the tour provides personalized attention and flexibility. It’s best for travelers who want to maximize their short stay with a tailored, private experience. The process begins with a form to share your preferences, ensuring your visit hits all the right notes.

Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who want a quick, personalized tour experience without sacrificing depth.

How to Choose the Right Tour in Ehime

When selecting your ideal tour, consider your budget, interests, and time constraints. For a relaxed, cultural walk with a craft element, the Small-Group Walking Tour is a winner. If you prefer a highly personalized experience, the Full Day Private Tour or Ozu Full Day allow for tailor-made itineraries.

Those interested in hands-on arts will enjoy the Japanese Candle Making Tour, while active travelers can opt for the Washi cycling adventure. For scenic, luxurious days, the Shimonada Station and Castle private tour offers comfort and flexibility.

Booking early, especially in peak seasons like spring and fall, will ensure you get the tour that best matches your interests and schedule.

In summary, Ehime Prefecture presents a well-rounded selection of tours—from intimate cultural workshops to private day trips tailored to your interests. For history lovers, the Matsuyama Castle audio guide and Shimonada Station stand out. For craft enthusiasts, the candle and washi workshops are unbeatable. And for those wanting a personalized, luxury experience, the private taxi and full-day private tours are ideal. Whichever you choose, your trip to Ehime is sure to be memorable—and booking early will help you lock in the best experience.