Guida
The Dogo Onsen Matsuri is a quintessential spring event held in the historic Dogo Onsen area of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. This festival is a deeply meaningful tradition, held to express gratitude for the continuous flow of the hot spring waters, which historically faced interruptions due to seismic activity. It is beloved by locals as a beautiful symbol of spring's arrival in the Dogo region.
The roots of this festival lie in a profound sense of gratitude toward the natural hot springs. The celebrations include sacred rituals such as 'Yu Kito' (hot spring prayers), a Shinto ceremony that has been performed since the Edo period to ensure the prosperity of the springs. These traditions are part of a long-standing cultural heritage that preserves the unique identity and spiritual connection of the hot spring town.
During the festival period, various events take place around the Dogo Onsen Honkan (Main Hall), Asuka-no-Yu, and the Dogo Shopping Street. Key highlights include:
This event is held annually in mid-March. The next scheduled dates are from March 19th to March 21st, 2026. While the daytime can be pleasantly warm during the onset of spring, temperatures may drop in the evenings. We recommend bringing a light jacket for temperature control. Since specific events like the 'celebratory mochi tossing' occur at set times, it is highly recommended to check the official schedule in advance to avoid missing out.
The festival offers much more than just viewing; it is an immersive experience. You can enjoy shopping at open-air stalls featuring local delicacies, watching traditional dances, and strolling through the historic streets to soak in the festive atmosphere. It is a perfect opportunity to touch the authentic spirit of a traditional Japanese festival.
The main venues are the areas surrounding the Dogo Onsen Honkan, Asuka-no-Yu, and the Dogo Shopping Street. This area is densely packed with historic architecture and traditional hot spring facilities, making it a wonderful place to explore the town's charm alongside the festival's excitement.
As the festival attracts many visitors, you will be doing a lot of walking. We strongly recommend wearing comfortable walking shoes. Please follow local rules and customs when visiting shops and facilities. To ensure a smooth experience, please be mindful of the crowd and respect the ongoing ceremonies and local residents.