Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, is the oldest hot spring in Japan, said to have a history of about 3,000 years. The Dogo Onsen Main Building, located in the center of the hot spring, is a beautiful three-story wooden building built in 1894 (Meiji 27), and is designated as an Important Cultural Property of Japan. It is said to be one of the models for the movie "Spirited Away" directed by Hayao Miyazaki, and its stately appearance attracts visitors. The hot spring in the main building is luxurious, as it is a spring that flows directly from the source without heating or adding water, and is characterized by its smooth spring quality that feels good on the skin.

The hot springs range from 20 degrees to 55 degrees, and are supplied to each facility by combining them.

We also recommend the public bath "Tsubaki no Yu" located near the center of Dogo Shopping Street.

Dogo Onsen Parking is free for one hour if you pass your car through the machine at Dogo Onsen Main Building.

Dogo Onsen Iwaidani Higashimachi Parking is always free for the first hour.

[Trivia]
The roof of the Dogo Onsen Main Building features a "Yukama" (water kettle) where the legendary sacred bird "Sagi" is said to have rested. It is also famous for being the setting of Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan". In the main building, the sound of a "Tokidaiko" drum, which is struck at different times of the day, reverberates throughout the building, enhancing the hot spring atmosphere.

[Hidden gem]
"Tsubaki no Yu", located just behind the Dogo Onsen Main Building, is a public bath popular with locals, and is more reasonably priced than the main building. In addition, "Dogo Haikara Dori Shopping Street", located on the way from Dogo Onsen Station to the main building, is lined with various shops, making it a great place to eat and look for souvenirs.

[Useful concerns]
As of June 2025, the Dogo Onsen Main Building is undergoing preservation and repair work, and part of the exterior is covered with scaffolding. During construction, some baths and rest rooms may be unavailable, so we recommend checking the official website in advance to see what facilities are available.