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| Dogo Onsen |
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 Japan's oldest existing spa, 'Dogo Onsen' has, since ancient times, attracted countless health seekers, including historically famous names.
Discovered 3,000 years ago, quite likely Japan's oldest hot
springs, 'Dogo Onsen' has been the source of many folkloric
and historical anecdotes. An enduring legend is that of a white
heron daily visiting the springs to nurse a wounded leg. Free
foot / hand baths scattered throughout town are popular.
Dogo Hot Spring Main Building
This splendid structure is purported to be a model
for a public bathhouse that was featured in the
animated film gSpirited Away".
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 'Onsen' in Dogo |
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| Dogo Hot Springs are natural hot springs that flow out at 42°C (108°F). Its thermal
quality is rated as simple, alkaline water. It's considered effective for treating rheumatism,
impaired mobility caused by muscle, lumbar or arthritic pains, neuralgia,
nervous disease, fatigue and convalescence.
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 Access to Dogo
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| >> Go To Top[Dogo Onsen] |
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| Dogo Hot Spring Main Building |
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Dogo Hot Spring Main Building, the symbol of Dogo, is a
magnificent three-story timber structure built over a century
ago and is the first public bathhouse to be designated an
Important Cultural Property. This facility offers two kinds of
hot baths designated, 'Kami-no-yu' (Waters of the gods) and
'Tama-no-yu' (Waters of the Spirits). Visitors can enjoy a
luxurious time relaxing in a splendid setting.
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| Shinrokaku | Yuushinden |
The town of Dogo begins and ends the
day with a sonorous gbong-bongh
boomed out of 'Toki-Daiko'. The
Japanese drum and the white heron
statue perched atop the roof of the main
bath building is a familiar landmark.
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In 1899, with the finest architectural
skills available then, 'Gyokuga-no-ma'
was constructed for Japan's Imperial
family exclusive use. This opulent
bathroom offers the visitor an appreciation
of past Imperial splendour.
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| Bochan's Room | |
'Soseki Natsume', a reputed Japanese
writer came to Dogo as an English
teacher during the Meiji Period. 'Dogo
Onsen' became the locale for
'Botchan' (Little Boy) a successful
nationwide novel.
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| Kami-no-yu/Tama-no-yu |
Kami-no-yu(Waters of the gods)
Tama-no-yu(Waters of the Spirits)
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Location: 5-6 Dogo Unomachi, Matsuyama-city
Open: Daily 6:00 am-11:00 pm(Tickets on sale until 10:30 pm)
May vary depending on selected Bathing option
Closed: 1 day near year's end
Admission:
Kami-no-yu (Waters of the gods)
1st floor: 400 yen
Kami-no-yu plus use of the lounge area,
2nd floor: 800 yen
Tama-no-yu (Waters of the Spirits)
plus use of the lounge area,
2nd floor: 1,200 yen
Tama-no-yu plus private room,
3rd floor: 1,500 yen
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| >> Go To Top[Dogo Onsen] |
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| Free Foot (Hand) Bath Map |
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Ten 'ashi-yu' located in Dogo's
'ryokan-gai' (locale of hotels and
inns), are available and can be
freely used by anyone in need of
relaxation.
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| >> Go To Top[Dogo Onsen] |
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| 'Botchan' Train |
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'Botchan' Train
(traditional street
car), the
matchbox-like train
that chugs around
Matsuyama, was reproduced as a diesel
locomotive based on the original steam
engine that operated there from 1888 to
1954. The conductor's original uniform
and wood finish inside the train's
carriages lend a sense of realism including
a touch of nostalgia.
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Stops at : Matsuyama Shieki City Station, Okaido, Dogo Onsen Ekimae
Street Car Station, JR Matsuyama Station, and Komachi
Operating schedule:
About once an hour, year round (number of runs and
timetable varies for Saturdays, Sundays and as required
depending on the season)
Fare : 300 yen per ride
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| >> Go To Top[Dogo Onsen] |
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| 'Bochan Karakuri' Clock |
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'Botchan Karakuri' Clock
(revolving dolls) is located
in Hojo-en Square. At
regular times, characters
from the novel 'Botchan'
make a magical entrance
to the tune of a sprightly
melody. A cheerful site
where visitors can take a
minute to relax.
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| >> Go To Top[Dogo Onsen] |
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