Around our guesthouse, you’ll find many small spots where you can experience local nature and everyday rural life.
They are not famous sightseeing attractions like those in Tokyo or Kyoto, but places closely connected to how we live here. We hope you take your time to explore and discover the area at your own pace.
You are welcome to explore on your own, and if you wish, we can also offer a local guide.
Even a simple walk around the area can be a refreshing experience.
Recommended Spots in Ehime
Straw Mammoth Sculpture
A giant mammoth sculpture made of rice straw.
Its surface is renewed each year using straw from the latest harvest. 🚶15minites.
Shikoku Karst
A dramatic plateau of limestone and grassland, known as one of Shikoku’s most scenic spots.
🚗 150 min by car
Kokemushiro (Moss Garden & Café)
A peaceful moss-covered garden café surrounded by nature, offering a calm and relaxing atmosphere unique to the countryside. Located about a 20-minute drive from the guesthouse, it is a lovely place to slow down, enjoy coffee, and experience the quiet beauty of the region.
🚲 60minites 🚗 25minites
Ozu castle
A beautifully restored historic castle overlooking the Hijikawa River, offering a glimpse into Japan’s samurai-era architecture and scenic town views. Located about a 40-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a great destination for history lovers and a relaxing stroll around the castle town.
🚗 40 minutes
Kumo no Ue no Library
a stunning wooden architectural space designed by world-renowned architect Kengo Kuma. Surrounded by mountains, the library blends modern design with traditional Japanese timber craftsmanship, offering a peaceful place to relax and enjoy the atmosphere of Yusuhara Town. A great stop for architecture lovers and slow travelers.
🚗 約60–70 minutes
Uwajima castle
It is one of the twelve original castle keeps still standing in Japan, along with Matsuyama Castle.
Originally built facing Uwajima Bay, the castle features an irregular pentagonal layout and was a formidable fortress that reflects the advanced construction techniques of the renowned castle builder Todo Takatora.
Inside the keep, the natural warmth of wood remains, and visitors can enjoy panoramic views of Uwajima Bay and the town of Uwajima in the distance.
🚗 40 minutes
Seasonal Highlights
Explore the area on foot and discover flowers, plants, and small hidden moments of nature.
Local spots near by
Kasagi Pass Kofun
🚶60minites. 🚗 20minites.
An ancient burial mound located at Kasagi Pass, surrounded by quiet nature.
It is also recommended as a hiking route, taking about 2 hours round trip.
Early mornings may offer views of a sea of clouds.
Mikame Shrine
🚶15minites.
A local shrine cherished by the community, located about a 10-minute walk from the guesthouse.
Mikame Tunnel
A historic tunnel carved through the mountains, offering a glimpse into the region’s old transportation routes. It is located about a 10-minute drive from the guesthouse and reflects the local history and landscape.
🚲 30minites 🚗 10minites
Yamada Yakushi Temple
A small local temple quietly watched over by the community, offering a peaceful atmosphere and a glimpse of traditional rural faith. It is a nice place to slow down and experience everyday life in the area.
🚲 30minites 🚗 15minites
Uwa rice Museum
A unique rice museum famous for its long wooden corridor where visitors can try traditional Japanese “zokin-gake” floor sliding. It’s a fun and memorable way to experience Japanese school culture while learning about local rice history. Located about a 20-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a great stop for both culture and a bit of active fun.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Meisekiji Temple
A historic temple on the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage, surrounded by quiet countryside scenery. Located about a 15-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a peaceful place to experience traditional Japanese culture.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Unomachi Historic Townscape
A charming historic district lined with traditional merchant houses from the Edo and Meiji periods. Located about a 10-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a lovely area to stroll, explore small museums, and experience the atmosphere of old rural Japan.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Ehime Prefectural Museum of History and Culture
A large museum showcasing the history, culture, and traditional lifestyle of Ehime through interactive exhibits and life-size displays. Located about a 20-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a great place to learn about the region before exploring the countryside.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Uwa Folk Tools Museum
A unique museum displaying traditional tools and everyday items once used in rural life, offering a glimpse into how people lived and worked in the past. Located in the Unomachi historic area, it’s an interesting stop to experience local history and craftsmanship.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Hoketsu Pass Viewpoint
A scenic viewpoint overlooking the winding coastline and terraced landscapes of southern Ehime. Located about a 20-minute drive from the guesthouse, it’s a great spot to enjoy panoramic views and a beautiful sunset.
🚲 60minites 🚗 20minites
Other spots
Shimonada Station
a small seaside train station famous for its unobstructed views of the Seto Inland Sea. Known as one of Japan’s most scenic stations, it’s a peaceful spot to watch the sunset and experience the quiet beauty of rural coastal life. Located about a 50-minute drive from the guesthouse.
🚗 60 minutes
📍 View on Google Maps
Aoshima (Cat Island)
a small fishing island known for its many free-roaming cats and quiet seaside atmosphere. With almost no cars and a peaceful local lifestyle, it offers a unique glimpse into rural island life in Ehime. Accessible by ferry, it’s a memorable day trip for cat lovers and slow travelers.
🚗 + ⛴ Ferry access
📍 View on Google Maps
Nametoko Gorge
a beautiful mountain valley known for its smooth granite riverbeds, clear water, and peaceful forest scenery. Popular for hiking and nature walks, it’s a refreshing escape where you can experience the wild beauty of Shikoku’s countryside. Located about 60–70 minutes by car from the guesthouse.
🚗 60–70 minutes
📍 View on Google Maps
Sotodomari Stone Wall Village
a traditional fishing village famous for its terraced stone walls facing the Uwa Sea. The unique landscape of stacked stone houses and narrow paths offers a glimpse into the history and lifestyle of coastal Shikoku. A peaceful place for photography, slow walks, and enjoying the scenery.
🚗 約70–80 minutes
📍 View on Google Maps