The Nanyo region of Ehime Prefecture is located in the southern part of the island known as Shikoku, and is a region where traditional Japanese culture and nature still remain strong to this day. With castle towns, merchant towns, and tranquil, beautiful seas and mountains, it is the perfect region for those who want to enjoy Japan without rushing. In this article, we will introduce a recommended plan for enjoying the nature and culture of Japan's countryside at a leisurely pace.
2024.11.14Enjoy a leisurely trip to the southern Ehime Prefecture, where you can experience Japanese culture and nature.
The Nanyo region of Ehime Prefecture is the perfect place for those who want to enjoy Japan without rushing.
Renting a car is recommended in the Nanyo region!
For this one-week plan, we recommend renting a car.
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Table of Contents
- Days 1-3: Enjoying traditional Japanese streets in Uchiko Town
- Days 4-6: Enjoy Japanese castles and gardens in Ozu City
- Days 7-9: Enjoy the traditional Japanese scenery in Seiyo City
- Days 10-12: Enjoy delicious fish and the beautiful sea in Ainan Town
- Day 13 and onwards
Days 1-3: Enjoying traditional Japanese streets in Uchiko Town
We recommend that you start your trip in Uchiko Town.
Here are three recommended experiences to enjoy in Uchiko Town!
Historical townscape and woodland
Uchiko Town flourished around 100 to 200 years ago through the production of wood wax.
If you go a little further from the center, you will find traditional Japanese scenery such as rice terraces and watermills.
Tenjin Paper Factory Papermaking Experience
If you come to Uchiko, try making washi paper!
Uchiko is one of Japan's leading producers of washi paper.
At the Tenjin Paper Factory in Uchiko, you can take a tour of the traditional Japanese paper-making factory and experience papermaking. The craftsmen will kindly teach you how to make Japanese paper, so even beginners can easily make their own!
Gilding Experience
If you are interested in Uchiko washi paper, try making gilding washi paper !
In recent years, a technique that combines the aforementioned washi paper with gilding , a traditional Western technique, has been gaining attention. Gilding made in Uchiko is made by attaching metal foil to washi paper made in Uchiko, and is characterized by its unique coloring. We sell postcards, posters, and even accessories made with gilding. In addition, in the gilding experience, you can learn about the technique of metal foil and make your own original postcards.
Authentic kimono experience
We also recommend trying on a traditional Japanese wedding attire in Uchiko town, where traditional Japanese streetscapes remain.
Days 4-6: Enjoy Japanese castles and gardens in Ozu City
After Uchiko Town, let's go to Ozu City!
Ozu City is a city located next to Uchiko Town.
Here are some recommended spots and experiences to enjoy Ozu!
Walking around Ozu castle town
Ozu city has many tourist spots where you can enjoy the beauty of Japanese architecture, such as Ozu Castle and Garyu Sanso.
Ozu Castle was demolished in 1888, but was completely restored in 2004 using wood.
This is rare even in Japan, and there are very few castles that have been restored using wood.
Once inside Ozu Castle, you can enjoy the impressive wooden structure.
One of the ways to enjoy the restored wooden castle tower is to see the view that the lord saw when the castle was built!
Garyu Sanso is a tourist spot in Ozu that was built as a villa by an Ozu trader.
Please enjoy the beauty of Japanese architecture!
Cormorant fishing and boat tours
A river called the Hijikawa flows through Ozu, and people have lived alongside the river.
In addition, in the summer, the "Ozu Castle Town Boat Tour" is now held, where you can take a boat tour of the Hijikawa River.
NIPPONIA HOTEL Ozu - Stay in an old house in the castle town
For those looking for a place to stay, we recommend NIPPONIA HOTEL Ozu Jokamachi !
There are also many activities available exclusively to guests staying at NIPPONIA HOTEL Ozu Castle Town.
Days 7-9: Enjoy the traditional Japanese scenery in Seiyo City
From the 7th day, let's head to Seiyo City, where you can relax even more!
Kokemushiro Moss Garden
If you want to experience the tranquility of Japan, you can't go wrong by going to Moss Mat !
Moss Mat is a gallery cafe that beautifully displays traditional Japanese moss.
Karihama terraced fields
In the Karihama area, the stone slopes are filled with rape blossoms in the spring and mandarin oranges in the fall, making it one of Seiyo city's most scenic spots.
Sea Kayaking
How about sea kayaking in the beautiful waters of Akehama?
Fishing
Akehama is known as one of the best fishing spots in Japan.
Octopus fishing experience
In Akehama-cho, Seiyo City, you can enjoy a village facing the sea that is reminiscent of the original Japanese landscape.
Cycling
In Seiyo City, you can rent e-bikes at various locations.
Akehameru
Akehamare Seaside Park is a tourist exchange hub for Seiyo City, and is equipped with many accommodation facilities, including hot springs, campsites, and restaurants.
Days 10-12: Enjoy delicious fish and the beautiful sea in Ainan Town
Ainan Town is located in the southernmost part of Ehime Prefecture.
Cape Koumo
Cape Koumo, located at the southernmost tip of Ehime Prefecture, is a scenic spot with cliffs over 100 meters high.
Ishigaki Village
In Ishigaki no Sato , houses are built with piled up stone walls to protect them from typhoons and seasonal winds.
Underwater Walk
During the summer, you can enjoy an underwater walk in Ainan Town.
Fresh seafood delicacies
Ainan Town is also rich in delicious gourmet food!
Day 13 and onwards
This concludes our trip in the Nanyo region of Ehime Prefecture, but from the 13th day onwards, we recommend heading from Ainan Town to Kochi Prefecture!
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