Today we travelled by two ferries to Matsuyama. This involved passing many of the islands that we were viewing from Mount Misen. The transport system has again been a revelation, clean, efficient and on schedule. Everything has been planned to dovetail nicely together – no waiting for hours between connections here!
After the ferries we took a bus to Dogo Onsen where our hotel was situated, opposite the the oldest recorded hot spring baths in Japan.
After a spot of lunch - a great beef curry we caught a tram to visit Matsuyama Castle atop Katsuyama Hill. There are two sorts of tram, the traditional one and another that is pulled by a replica of an old steam train. We stuck with the traditional one and soon arrived at the castle.
The castle is perched on top of a steep hill and there are three ways to get there. Walk, cable car or chair lift. We all opted for the chair lift which was great fun!
As it happened it was another of the group - Eve's - birthday. This time we celebrated with local sweets and a plum wine - which is delicious!
The castle itself is very similar in style to the last one we visited in Hikone, but at least the weather was kinder to us today. This one had some interesting artifacts inside, including some samurai armour and manuscripts.
We returned by tram back to our hotel where Clare went to the onsen and I caught up with my blog. Then it was out for some dinner close by with Richard and George - rice, fried breaded pork and chicken, with Clare tucking into more noodles and veg! Clare went to dinner in her yutaka, as it is the standard dress for everyone who visit the onsen. You don't seem out of place strolling down a shopping mall in a long belted robe enjoying the local chestnut ice cream as everyone else is doing much the same!
Now I've caught up with the blog it's time for my bath in the onsen next door!!!
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