Major Events & Festivals in Matsuyama, Ehime, Japan

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1. Dolphin Show at Matsuyama Port

Watch the captivating dolphin show at Matsuyama Port. Enjoy their acrobatic skills and intelligence up close.

Unique Marine Life: Different species of dolphins, including the Indo-Pacific bottlenose dolphin
Interactive Experience: Opportunity to interact with the trainers and learn about these amazing creatures
Family-Friendly Attraction: Entertaining and educational for both kids and adults alike

Experience the traditional Dogo Onsen Honjin Festival in March. Enjoy the beautiful parade and try local specialties.

Historical Significance: Celebration of the ancient hot spring's history dating back over a thousand years
Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional dance performances and try local delicacies
Photography Opportunities: Stunning costumes, floats, and the historic Dogo Onsen as a backdrop

Participate in Japan's oldest float festival during mid-July. Watch the beautiful, intricate floats being pulled through the streets.

Cultural Tradition: Over 400 years of history and tradition
Community Involvement: Opportunity to engage with locals and learn about the festival's significance
Photography Opportunities: Stunning floats, lanterns, and traditional costumes make for incredible photos

Discover the Iya Valley's unique healing traditions during September. Explore the village and participate in traditional workshops.

Cultural Immersion: Experience Japan's ancient healing practices and learn from local experts
Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the Iya Valley, a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Workshops and Demonstrations: Opportunity to learn about and try traditional Japanese crafts, such as indigo dyeing and pottery

Admire the stunning autumn foliage at Ishiteji Temple. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and food during October.

Natural Beauty: Breathtaking views of vibrant autumn leaves against the temple's historic architecture
Cultural Experience: Experience traditional music, dance performances, and try local specialties
Historical Significance: Visit a historic temple dating back to the 7th century

Marvel at the beautiful cherry blossoms throughout Matsuyama during late April. Enjoy festive events and delicious food.

Natural Beauty: Stunning displays of cherry blossoms in parks and along rivers
Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional events, such as hanami (cherry blossom viewing parties)
Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the cherry blossoms against historic landmarks

Celebrate the star festival in mid-August. Enjoy the colorful decorations and night parade.

Cultural Tradition: Celebration of the star-crossed lovers Orihime and Hikoboshi
Community Involvement: Opportunity to engage with locals and learn about the festival's significance
Photography Opportunities: Stunning decorations, traditional costumes, and night parade make for incredible photos

Experience the Toshigoi Fire Festival on New Year's Eve. Witness massive bonfires and local rituals.

Cultural Tradition: Ancient tradition to ward off evil spirits and bring good fortune for the upcoming year
Community Involvement: Opportunity to engage with locals and learn about the festival's significance
Unique Experience: Unforgettable experience of massive bonfires, loud drums, and local chants

Marvel at the beautiful night view of Matsuyama Castle. Enjoy the stunning illuminations during autumn and winter.

Historical Significance: Visit a historic castle, one of Japan's 12 original castles
Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the city lights and surrounding mountains
Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the illuminated castle against the night sky

Admire the beautiful lanterns at Ishiteji Temple during mid-August. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and food.

Cultural Experience: Experience traditional music, dance performances, and try local specialties
Natural Beauty: Beautiful views of the temple's lanterns against the night sky
Historical Significance: Visit a historic temple dating back to the 7th century

Participate in Japan's largest dance festival during early August. Enjoy the vibrant costumes and lively music.

Cultural Tradition: Ancient tradition dating back over 400 years
Community Involvement: Opportunity to engage with locals and learn about the festival's significance
Entertainment Value: Exciting performances by both professionals and amateurs alike

Experience the Kankan Festival in early October. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and food.

Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional events, such as lion dances and taiko drumming
Natural Beauty: Stunning views of the autumn leaves against historic landmarks
Historical Significance: Celebration of Matsuyama's rich history and culture

Explore the healing properties of Matsuyama's hot springs during late September. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and food.

Health and Wellness: Experience the healing benefits of Matsuyama's famous hot springs
Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional events, such as dance performances and taiko drumming
Natural Beauty: Beautiful views of the surrounding mountains and autumn foliage

Admire the stunning autumn foliage in Iya Valley. Enjoy traditional music, dance, and food during October.

Natural Beauty: Stunning views of vibrant autumn leaves against the valley's historic architecture
Cultural Experience: Participate in traditional events, such as indigo dyeing and pottery workshops
Photography Opportunities: Capture the beauty of the autumn leaves against the valley's historic architecture

Experience a traditional Japanese Christmas market during late November and December. Enjoy food, drinks, and unique gifts.

Holiday Atmosphere: Celebrate the holiday season in a unique Japanese twist
Shopping Opportunities: Find unique gifts, such as traditional crafts and local specialties
Cultural Experience: Experience traditional music, dance performances, and try local delicacies