In response to the rapidly increasing number of foreign tourists to Japan in recent years, Keio Corporation has designed an original Keio Line goshuin stamp book which will be released at the “Central Honshu Information Plaza in Keio Shinjuku” at Shinjuku Station on September 1.
A Goshuincho is a book for collecting goshuin, which are stamps or seals given at shrines and temples across Japan. Every shrine and temple has its own unique goshuin which are stamped alongside calligraphy handwritten by the staff there and then who write the date and the name of the temple or shrine.
When purchasing Keio’s book, you are given a pamphlet―available in English only―featuring lots of different sites you can receive goshuin up and down the train line.
Sites include the Buddhist temple Yakuou-in (Hachioji, Tokyo), Takahata Fudoson Kongo-ji Temple (Hino, Tokyo), Ōkunitama Shrine (Chofu, Tokyo), Jindaiji Temple (Chofu, Tokyo), and Ohmiya-Hachimangu (Suginami, Tokyo). The pamphlet also explains how to obtain a stamp as well as the correct way to worship at these locations. It also details information about train ticket discounts on the Keio Line for foreign travellers which were introduced in February this year.
The book will also be available to purchase at Keio Rail-Land from October 14.
Information
Keio Line Original Goshuincho
Release Date: September 1, 2019
Available: At Central Honshu Information Plaza in Keio Shinjuku (Open 8:30-19:00). Also available at Keio Rail-Land from October 14.
Price: ¥800
Stock: 1,000 (Will discontinue once all are sold)
Keio Line Official Website: https://www.keio.co.jp/english/index.html
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Konkaikōmyō-ji, also known as Kurodani Temple, is set to open its doors to the public from November 4 for its autumn illuminations.
Kurodani Temple has a long history, best known as serving as the Kyoto Shugoshoku―the office of the Tokugawa shogunate―during the Bakumatsu period. It has relations to the Shinseigumi, a military force which was active during this time which was dedicated to suppressing anti-shogunate activities. It is also the first place that Hōnen, the founder of Japanese Pure Land Buddhism, spread his teachings. For the special opening, you will be able to see the famous chicken painting Tori-zu Oshiebari Byobu by Itō Jakuchū as well as treasures associated with Hōnen and more. The number of tigers on the famous tiger doors of the temple changes as you slide them. From the temple grounds you can enjoy a breathtaking scene of the gardens where the autumnal colours of the trees reflect from the surface of the pond. Kurodani Temple is also home to the Gokōshiyui Amidabutu Statue, which became the talk of the town in the media when it was dubbed the "Afro Buddha," and looks deep in contemplation. There will also be performances three times a day in the evening using traditional Japanese instruments like the koto and shinobue. If you pay for the premium entry plan you can enter 30 minutes earlier and will be guided by one of the official gardeners or expert of the gardens. Information
Autumnal Light-Up
Running: November 4, 2019 – December 8, 2019
Time: 17:30-21:00 (Last Entries 20:30)
Price: Adults ¥800 / Children ¥400 / Infants – Free
*Groups of over 20 people – ¥700
Music Performances: Everyday at 18:00/18:45/19:30
Premium Plan
Running: Fridays & Weekends
Time: From 17:00
Price: Adults ¥1,200 / Children ¥600
Kurodani Temple
Address: 121 Kurodanicho, Sakyo Ward, Kyoto, Kyoto Prefecture
Event Page: https://www.kurodani.jp/lightup_aut/
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The all-new SMALL WORLDS TOKYO theme park is set to open in the Ariake district of Tokyo in spring 2020.
The park will cover an 8,000m2 area which will be split into seven different areas made up of moving miniature models: the Kansai International Airport, the Space Center, World Streets, Sailor Moon, Neon Genesis Evangelion Tokyo-3, and Neon Genesis Evangelion Evangelion Cage. The facility hopes to bring a new level of immersion the likes of which we have not seen before. It is a joint project between Japanese creators Tatsuya Kaneko and Shōji Kawamori and a team of Japanese engineers. Using the latest cutting-edge technology and delicate artistry in Japan, the staff behind this project have built a moving miniature universe that will transport visitors to another world. Sailor Moon fans will delight in the recreation of Azabu-Jūban, a district of Tokyo where the series protagonists reside, and Crystal Tokyo. Evangelion fans will also rejoice in witnessing Tokyo-3 as well as Evangelion Cages in which Evangelions are housed. Not only will visitors be able to look at the miniature world, they can become part of it too with the Citizens Rights Figure Program which will scan a 3D model of the person and have a figure of themselves placed in the area of their choice. Sign-ups for this program will open on August 9 at 10:00 (JST) on the park's website. Details on tickets and facility specifics will be announced in the near future. ©SMALL WORLDS. Inc Information
SMALL WORLDS TOKYO
Address: Ariake Butsuryu Center, 1-3-33 Ariake, Koto Ward, Tokyo
Official Website: http://www.smallworlds.jp/
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Disney Christmas 2019 at Tokyo DisneySea: Spend This Year’s Holiday Season With That Special Someone♡
Tokyo Disney Resort has announced this year's Disney Christmas which will take place at Tokyo Disneyland® and Tokyo DisneySea® from November 8 to December 25. This is the Tokyo DisneySea® event line-up. For the Tokyo Disneyland® schedule, click here. 'Tis the season to be jolly this year at Tokyo DisneySea, where the Christmas spirit is set to fall and settle like December snow across the park with a fantastic line-up of festive entertainment programs, magical decorations and more. Guests are invited to join the Disney cast in welcoming a very merry Christmas at this year for Disney Christmas 2019.It's Christmas Time!
The "It's Christmas Time!" show returns again this year to Mediterranean Harbor to wrap guests in the Christmas spirit, featuring Mickey Mouse and friends along with singers and dancers who will perform to classic Christmas tunes. Colour Of Christmas
This magical performance takes place at nighttime on the water at Mediterranean Harbor, featuring a huge 15-meter tall shimmering Christmas tree. Held annually, this will mark the show's eighth and final run. Disney characters including Mickey will also be present for the performance. The whole of Mediterranean Harbor will be wrapped in the Christmas spirit, with the huge tree in the centre and little trees all around, and onlookers all with their own wishes for the holiday season. Snow will also fall during the performance to create a romantic atmosphere. Special Christmas Merchandise
Pouch - ¥2,000 (Tax Included)
Around 65 very special pieces of merchandise will be available for guests to pick up, many themed on the It's Christmas Time! show. The pouch features the cute scene of Mickey and Minnie line dancing which you will see in the show. The available plush toys also have a Christmas-y gold bell on them. All of these items will be available from November 1.There will also be adorable Duffy and Friends merchandise to pick up. Some of these items are themed on Cape Cod Village in winter, an area in the park which serves as a greeting spot for Duffy and his friends. These Christmas items will be available from November 6. Christmas Food & Drink
A festive feast of 15 drinks and dishes will be served for Disney Christmas, from seafood pasta to roast beef sandwiches and more. There will also be a reindeer-inspired dessert as well as alcoholic cocktails and much, much more. Enjoy a very merry Christmas this year at Tokyo DisneySea.♡ Information
Disney Christmas
Running: November 8, 2019 – December 25, 2019
Tokyo Disney Resort Official Website: https://www.tokyodisneyresort.jp/en/index.html
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From December 10 until December 18, 2022, creative company NAKED will hold NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO at Ninna-ji! The event is part of a larger next-generation art project being held around Kyoto until Christmas Day. This exhibition marks the first metaverse-centered event at Ninna-ji, and guests will be able to enjoy a virtual fashion show in collaboration with Jotaro Saito, a kimono designer from Kyoto. Participants will begin by creating their own avatar by snapping a photo of their face. After that, they will be able to choose a kimono by Saito to use as clothing for their avatar before taking to the runway with other visitors from all around Japan. NAKED’s goal is to bring traditional Japanese kimono culture into the digital space, and the company believes that this is only the beginning. In the future, NAKED hopes to bring other artists into the metaverse as well. NAKED Distanced Lanterns
NAKED Tsukubai Five-Storied Pagoda Projection Mapping DANDELION PROJECT Virtual Fashion Show Limited Edition Paper Goshuin This year’s event also includes the DANDELION PROJECT, popular with art fans around the world. Created by Ryotaro Muramatsu, the art project has appeared in a number of towns and cities around the world, inviting participants to create flowers and send them around the globe digitally as a hope for peace. Visitors can use their smartphones to send dandelion fluff digitally to other participants around the world, sharing a wish for world peace. This year, the participatory art piece was installed in the main temple. Why not visit this stunning exhibition in Kyoto this winter? Information
NAKED GARDEN ONE KYOTO Ninna-ji
Venue: Ninna-ji (Five-storied Pagoda, Main Temple)
Running: December 10 – December 18, 2022
*No admission on December 17 due to a private event.
Hours: 17:30-21:30 *Last entry at 21:00
Official Site: https://garden.naked.works/kyoto/ -
Ryusenji Temple in Saitama is offering some exclusive summer goshuin! Goshuin are stamps or seals given to worshippers at shrines and temples around Japan, where somebody will stamp your goshuin-cho (stamp book) with the site’s unique seal along with the temple’s name and the day you visited handwritten in ink. The two new goshuin feature summer fireworks and a cooling fan design. These will be available from June 1 until August. They might sell out, though, so be quick!
Summer Exclusive Paper-Cut Overlaid Goshuin: Fireworks and a Wish for Peace
The Fireworks and a Wish for Peace goshuin use five kinds of paper to depict fireworks in the summer night sky. Fireworks are a popular summer tradition in Japan. It’s said that fireworks were born following the discovery of gunpowder and its use in guns when some decided to use the substance to make something beautiful rather than use it as a weapon. Because of this, many see fireworks as a symbol of peace. The current war between Russia and Ukraine has seen gunpowder used as a horrific weapon used to end the lives of many innocent people, and this special goshuin was made in the hopes that the war will come to an end as soon as possible. Gunpowder should be used in fireworks to bring people happiness instead.Summer Exclusive Paper-Cut Overlaid Goshuin: Refreshing Good Luck Charm
The Refreshing Good Luck Charm shows a traditional Japanese summer scene with a fan and goldfish swimming in clear blue water. Fans are used by many Japanese to keep cool during the summer months, and some are even said to have the power to ward off illness and evil spirits. Goldfish are often seen during summer festivals, where visitors try to scoop them up using an easily-breakable net in a fun game with family and friends. Goldfish became popular during the Edo period and were considered to be lucky creatures capable of bringing happiness into one’s home and bringing financial fortune.If you’re heading to Saitama, why not add these intricate goshuin to your book? Information
Saitama Yakuyoke Kaiun Daishi
Address: 3712 Mikajiri, Kumagaya, Saitama
Official Site: https://yakuyoke-kaiun.jp/
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Former Toride Inn Honjin Someno Family Residence in Toride City, Ibaraki Prefecture Offering Special Seal for Visitors
Toride City in Ibaraki Prefecture began heavily developing during the Edo Period as a strategic town on the Mito Kaido road. The symbol of the town is the Former Toride Inn Honjin Someno Family Residence, designated as a prefectural cultural property and historic site. This stunning building will now be open to the public starting June 3, 2022! In Japan, fans of temples and shrines often collect Goshuin. These are beautiful handwritten shrine seals collected in a special book, and they have recently become popular with younger generations. The first ‘honjin goshuin’ in Japanese history will be available at the Former Toride Inn! A honjin was an inn for government officials, generally located in post stations during the later part of the Edo period. In Toride, the Someno Family Residence was designated as the main honjin for use by the Mito Tokugawa family in 1687. Since then, successors of the Mito Tokugawa family and many other feudal lords and samurai traveling between Edo and Mito used the location as a place to rest.Of the three remaining honjin on the Mito Kaido road, the Former Toride Inn Honjin Someno Family Residence is the oldest and largest in scale. Today, it is also the only one with both the grounds and interior open to the public. With deep ties to the Mito Tokugawa family and Yoshinobu Tokugawa, the last shogun of the Edo Shogunate, it remains an incredible historical site. Former Toride Inn Honjin Someno Family Residence Information (Released October 1, 2021) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iKHGJsztC0Q Visitors can obtain two honjin goshuin: one features an illustration of the main building, while the other features the seal of the Someno Family Residence. Information
Former Toride Inn Honjin Someno Family Residence
Hours: Open to the public every Friday, Saturday, and Sunday (excluding New Year’s holidays) from 10:00-16:00 *Last admission at 15:30
Admission: Free
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Imabari is a city in Ehime Prefecture that faces the Seto Inland Sea. Since olden times, it has flourished as an important location for marine traffic. It's home to a bounty of recognised national treasures and historical heritage sights, and is also famous for its production of citrus fruits such as mikan. Japanese pop star, model, and icon Kyary Pamyu Pamyu took a trip to this ancient city to discover its wonder and beauty. A Visit to the Historical Sea Route
Oyamazumi Shrine
A 'power spot' revered by prominent peopleOyamazumi Shrine has been revered by prominent figures throughout history as a place dedicated to the god of the mountain, god of the ocean, and the god of war. It's home to numerous Important Cultural Properties which are available for viewing by the public such as the armour worn by the military commander Minamoto no Yoshitsune when the Minamoto clan won the Genpei War (1180-1185), armour worn by women, and more. The shrine is also a notable power spot for the ancient tree that has stood there for 2,600 years and is now recognised as a natural monument of Japan. Power spots are places in Japan where the spiritually-inclined draw energy from. InformationOyamazumi ShrineAddress: 3327 Omishimacho Miyaura, Imabari, Ehime 794-1393, JapanTEL: 0897-82-0032Opening Hours: Sunrise to 17:00National Treasure Building: 8:30-17:00 (Last Entries 16:30)Official Website: https://oomishimagu.jp/ Kurushima Kaikyo Service Area
Lip-smacking food aplentyIf you're one for great views, then the Kurushima Kaikyo service area is a must-visit, offering a panoramic look at the Kurushima Strait of the Seto Inland Sea. The service area is very well know particularly for the Jaguchi Mikan Juice, something of a city legend in Ehime where you can enjoy fresh mikan juice straight from a tap. You can also tuck a rice bowl dish made with tachiuo hairtail caught in the Seto Inland Sea that's made to look like Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge, or try Imabari's soul food dish: the Imabari Yakibuta Tamago Meshi, a pork, egg, and rice bowl. Don't pass up the chance to snap a photo at the designated photo spot with the Seto Inland Sea in the back either like Kyary above. InformationKurushima Kaikyo Service AreaAddress: 3-9-68 Ohamacho, Imabari, Ehime, 794-0002, Japan Food Court: [Weekdays] 8:00-21:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 7:00-22:00 Shops: [Weekdays] 8:00-21:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 7:00-22:00 Outside Shopping Area & Cafes: [Weekdays] 9:00-17:00 / [Weekends & Holidays] 9:00-18:00 Official Website: https://www.jb-highway.co.jp/sapa/kurushima.php Murakami Suigun Museum
Dedicated to the Imabari heroes who protected the oceanMurakami Suigun Museum is dedicated to kaizoku—pirates, or lords of the sea—something which conjures to mind villainy or bad guys, but the Murakami pirates were also considered heroes who helped maintain order and protect the sea during the Sengoku warring period of Japan. The museum features many displays of Murakami family treasures including the battle surcoat which the pirate leader wore over his armour, proudly bearing the Murakami family crest. Visitors can wear replicas of this coat, which Kyary tired herself: "Now I'm sorta like a military commander too," she said. Information Murakami Suigun MuseumAddress: 1285 Miyakubocho Miyakubo, Imabari, Ehime 794-2203, Japan TEL: 0897-74-1065Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: Mondays (or Tuesday if the Monday falls on a public holiday) / New Year Holidays (Dec 29-Jan 3)Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/museum/suigun/ Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan
A bundle of fun and entertainment in one placeRoll on up to Roadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kan to enjoy a shichirin BBQ feast with fresh seafood caught in the Seto Inland Sea while gazing out across Kurushima Kaikyo. This building complex serves as a resting spot and is also the perfect place to purchase local souvenirs including Ehime specialty products. It's also famous for its offering the chance to board a boat to ride around Kurushima Kaikyo, renting out bicycles, and more. You'll also be able to meet Koro-chan, a popular fish who has lived there for 30 years. InformationRoadside Station Yoshiumi Iki-iki-kanAddress: 4520-2 Yoshiumichomyo, Imabari, Ehime 794-2114, JapanTEL: 0897-84-3710Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Restaurant: 10:00-16:00 (Last Orders 15:00)Closed: New Year's Day (and certain days in winter)Official Website: http://www.imabari-shimanami.jp/ikiiki/ Dolphin Farm Shimanami
Meet the cute and friendly dolphinsDolphin Farm Shimanami, which is connected to Hakata Beach, is the best and biggest place in Japan to interact with dolphins. Visitors can get close to them and the dolphins will show off their tricks and skills. There's even a car camping area you can stay at. InformationDolphin Farm ShimanamiAddress: 1673 Hakatacho Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2302, JapanTEL: 0897-72-8787Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: On days with bad weathOfficial Website: https://www.df-shimanami.com/ Hakata Beach
A white sandy beach rolling out 200-metersHakata Beach is located at the base of Oshima Bridge in Hakata. The beach is famous for its salt which is best tried on their popular sweet-tasting sea salt ice cream. InformationHakata Beach Address: 1668-1 Hakatacho Kanoura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2302, Japan Sea Bathing: Early July - Late AugustOfficial Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/spot/?a=198 Imabari Towels
High quality towels woven with tradition and techniqueImabari is the biggest producer of towels in Japan. Even their white towels alone have countless types you can choose from, allowing you to pick which level of softness and comfort you want. The iconic brand logo is also impactful, capturing the quality, production, and enthusiasm that the makes have for the product. Kyary herself uses them all the time! Information Imabari TowelOfficial Website: https://www.imabaritowel.jp/ Sunrise Itoyama
Need a bike?Sunrise Itoyama, located in the Imabari Central Cycling Terminal, is a rental bicycle service that has bikes and helmets for everyone's needs. Rent out a bike and ride the Shimanami Sea Route which connects Ehime and Hiroshima with a series of bridges that hop across the islands of the Seto Inland Sea. Information Sunrise ItoyamaAddress: 2-8-1 Sunabacho, Imabari, Ehime 794-0001, JapanTEL: 0898-41-3196Rent-a-Cycle Details: https://www.sunrise-itoyama.jp/archives/rentacycle/Official Website: https://www.sunrise-itoyama.jp/ Marutomi
The famous restaurant known to every localIf you want the real experience of Imabari's yakitori soul food, you should visit Marutomi, a yakitori eatery. Imabari yakitori is different from the usual Japanese yakitori as it doesn't come skewered. Instead, the chicken is cut into small pieces and fried that way. One of the most popular ways to have it is with the skin on so the outside is crunchy and the inside succulent. It goes perfect with a cup of sake too. Information Marutomi2-3-6 Katayama, Imabari, Ehime 794-0063, JapanTEL: 0898-23-2740Opening Hours: 17:30-22:00Closed: WednesdaysOfficial Website: https://maru-marutomi.jp/ Imabari Castle
A castle by the seaImabari Castle, built by the daimyo Tōdō Takatora, is known famously as one of Japan's three "Castles on the Sea" and was also listed in Japan's Top 100 Castles. When it was first constructed, boats could enter the moat from the ocean. It's a site that breathes the prosperity that Imabari has enjoyed as a significant location for maritime traffic, the same Imabari that the Murakami pirates sought to protect. Head on up to the top of the castle to stand on the observation deck and gaze at an unbroken view of the city. InformationImabari CastleAddress: 3-1-3 Toricho, Imabari, Ehime, 794-0036, JapanTEL: 0898-31-9233Opening Hours: 9:00-17:00Closed: December 29 - December 31Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/museum/imabarijo/ Kirosan Observatory Park
A breathtaking spectacle to rememberKirosan Observatory Park is officially recognised by Setonaikai National Park. Standing atop the observation deck fills the eyes with wonder as they gaze upon a panoramic stretch of Imabari, the Seto Inland Sea, and Kurushima Kaikyo all at once. Kyary wrapped up her time in Imabari here as the sunset coloured the sky and sea in warm evening hues. Information Kirosan Observatory Park Address: 487-4 Yoshiumicho Minamiura, Imabari, Ehime 794-2115, JapanNo Fixed Holidays Open 24-hours a day Official Website: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/spot/?a=182 Imabari Tourism Information: https://www.city.imabari.ehime.jp/kanko/ We hope you enjoyed joining Kyary on her adventures across Imabari, and perhaps she even got you a little curious in wanting to visit the city yourself. It's a treasure trove filled with vistas by the sea, in nature, and in the city itself with its Important Cultural Properties. Food is also a big part of travel for many people, so you can rest assured that your belly will be satisfied in Imabari as you try their speciality mikan, fresh seafood fished in the Seto Inland Sea, and more. Information
Kyary Pamyu Pamyu
Official Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kyarypappa (＠kyarypappa)
Official Twitter: https://twitter.com/pamyurin (＠pamyurin)
Official Website: http://kyary.asobisystem.com/
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The reception staff are ready and waiting to greet customers with a smile
The all new Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre finally opened in the heart of Matsuyama—the capital city of Ehime Prefecture in Japan—in Okaido on May 27. You'll find it on the first floor of Matsuyama Mitsukoshi which isn't even a one-minute walk from Okaido Station. It features an interior fusion combining history and culture with a design inspired by Matsuyama Castle while also throwing in a contemporary feel.Six giant screens serve as the perfect place for tourism-related PR of Matsuyama
The first sight many visitors will lay their eyes on upon entering the information centres are the six screens spanning 1.5 meters high and 4.5 meters across the wall. Here, a variety of promotional material centred on the highlights of Matsuyama will be displayed. The information centre offers many useful services, including for foreign customers who don't speak Japanese. There is a translation and interpreting service, money exchange, rental electrical outlets for smart devices, and more. The staff themselves are multilingual, but the interpreting service includes access to a call centre which you can access using the free WiFi or using an iPad. The availability of foreign currency exchange is also extremely beneficial as Matsuyama is a city abundant with long-standing shops that have been around for decades and longer. Another convenience with the centre is easy access to public transport. If you're looking to travel around the prefecture, we recommend paying a visit to the centre first as it's sure to provide valuable information. You can even rent mobile batteries for your smartphone to lessen the stress when sightseeing.The pictogram shows the many handy services available
Visitors will also find a comprehensive duty-free counter inside the information centre which covers all stores in Okaido, Gintengai, Matsuchika Town, Dogo Shoten, and Ropeway Shotengai. You must spend over ¥5,000 (before tax) on products to be duty-free eligible. Since it's a comprehensive service, if you have multiple receipts you can be exempt from tax as long as all your receipts exceed ¥5,000. Participating stores have special stickers plastered up inside so tourists can quickly and easily identify them.Stores participating in the duty-free service have stickers and signs to show it
For example, if you spend ¥500 at participating stores in Dogo Shotengai, ¥1,000 in Okaido Shopping Street, and ¥3,500 in Gintengai Shotengai, and take all three of those receipts adding up to ¥5,000 to the information centre, you can get your items duty free. But keep in mind that the receipts have a validity period on them, so be sure to check opening hours. The Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre serves as the perfect site for bringing in all kinds of tourists, including foreign travellers, to Matsuyama post-COVID. The information also goes by the cute nickname "Dan Dan info." Dan dan is an old Ehime phrase meaning "thank you" and ties in with the smiling and hospitable welcome staff wish to greet guests with. It's exciting to look into the future and see how Matsuyama's tourism and economic growth will develop in its shopping districts, stores, and elsewhere. Make one of your first stops the Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre when visiting the city.Information
Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre
Opened: May 27, 2021
Address: Matsuyama Mitsukoshi Floor 1F Atrium Space Court, 3-1-1 Ichibancho, Matsuyama, Ehime
Homepage: https://matsuyama-tourism.com/
Facebook: dandaninfo
Instagram: dandaninfo_matsuyama
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The all new Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre opened in the heart of Matsuyama—the capital city of Ehime Prefecture in Japan—in Okaido on May 27. In celebration of its opening, this new featured series by MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON will explore the wonders of Matsuyama, a city abundant with places to shop, leisurely hot spots, must-visit restaurants, and opportunities to dive deep into its history and culture. You're sure to discover something new and exciting about Matsuyama in this series.
From tasty treats to home and lifestyle goods, Matsuyama has no shortage of souvenirs
Popular sightseeing spots and delicious food you can't get anywhere else—these are all part of the fun experience to be had when travelling. To wrap up your time there and memorialise all that's happened, nothing's better than picking up a little souvenir. In Episode 8 of All About Matsuyama, we take a look at the many wonderful items you can take home with you as souvenirs from food to traditional handicrafts, special dyed fashion and accessories, and more. MOSHI MOSHI NIPPON has picked out a range of delightful treats like Matsuyama's famous tartes, jakoten, three-colour botchan dango as well as Tobe ware porcelain which is an Ehime tradition, and iyo-kasuri fabric which is one of Japan's three main kasuri fabrics. First on the list is the 'tarte,' a speciality product of Shikoku which is more of a sponge cake. They're made of a soft and fluffy sesame seed-coloured sponge and coarse red bean paste. A famous treat of Matsuyama, you can find these tarts just about anywhere in Okaido Shopping Street, near Dogo Onsen, and elsewhere. Jakoten is considered a soul food of Ehime Prefecture. It's made from fish that are blended into a paste and fried. You can find jakoten everywhere in Matsuyama, but every restaurant serves theirs with different textures and flavours. Many places fry them fresh, so be sure to try a bunch to compare the flavours and then you can decide which to buy as a souvenir. There are even places so popular that they have lines outside them before they even open. The botchan dango is something many of our readers have probably seen or heard about. These three-coloured skewered dango are served bite-sized, cute enough to snap a photo of. The ones sold at Dogo Onsen are something of a speciality. They have their name from Natsume Soseki's novel Botchan. You'll find them all around Dogo Shotengai. Tobe ware is a traditional type of porcelain from Tobe in Ehime, known for its smooth touch and durability. This traditional porcelain has been handed down from old times until today, and in recent years, ceramists have been hammering out their own unique shapes, so have become popular as stylish, everyday use lifestyle items. You can't talk about Ehime's traditional craftwork without mentioning iyo-kasuri fabric. Matsuyama used to have huge production output of this fabric type, which stands as one of three of Japan's most famous kasuri fabrics alongside kurume-gasuri from Fukuoka and bingo-kasuri from Hiroshima. Production has dwindled in modern times, but if you go to Art Labo KASURI Rekishikan, you can learn all about iyo-kasuri. There are lots of gorgeous iyo-kasuri products to buy like cute pouches, bags, and more. And that's our list of must-grab souvenirs. There are of course endless other things you can get your hands on, so if you're lost on what to pick up, try asking at the Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre. Stay tuned for the next and final episode of All About Matsuyama.Information
Matsuyama Tourist Information Centre
Opened: May 27, 2021
Address: Matsuyama Mitsukoshi Floor 1F Atrium Space Court, 3-1-1 Ichibancho, Matsuyama, Ehime
Homepage: https://matsuyama-tourism.com/
Facebook: dandaninfo
Instagram: dandaninfo_matsuyama