Ehime Prefecture offers some of Japan’s most charming and authentic experiences, especially if you’re looking to explore for a full day. Its combination of scenic landscapes, historical sites, and relaxing hot springs makes it ideal for a variety of tour styles. We particularly love the Matsuyama Full-Day Private Trip with a government-licensed guide for its in-depth, personalized approach, and the Matsuyama Private Customizable Full Day Tour for its flexibility tailored to your interests. Plus, the Ozu Private Customizable Full Day Tour offers a chance to see a lesser-visited but equally fascinating town with a bespoke touch. Whether you want a guided deep dive or a flexible itinerary, Ehime has options that fit different travel styles and budgets.
Quick Overview
Our list features three top full-day tours that showcase Ehime’s best. The private guided trip in Matsuyama provides a classic, in-depth experience with an expert guide. The customizable tours in both Matsuyama and Ozu are perfect if you prefer tailoring your day to specific interests, such as visiting temples, castles, or local neighborhoods. Each offers a different way to experience Ehime’s unique blend of culture, nature, and history. Read on to find the perfect match for your trip.
1. Matsuyama Full-Day Private Trip with Government-Licensed Guide
At number one, this private guided tour in Matsuyama offers a comprehensive and hassle-free way to see the highlights. For just $154.75 per person, you’ll enjoy around 6 hours with a multilingual, government-licensed guide who knows the city inside out. This tour is ideal if you want a well-rounded introduction to Matsuyama without worrying about planning logistics.
The itinerary typically includes a visit to the iconic Dogo Onsen Honkan, an architectural marvel built in 1894 that’s said to have inspired Studio Ghibli’s “Spirited Away.” You’ll explore its wooden maze-like interior and soak in its historic baths. Alongside this, you’ll visit Dogo Onsengai, a lively hot spring district full of traditional ryokans, shops, and local eateries. This tour provides a perfect blend of cultural history and local atmosphere, making it especially appealing for travelers who prefer insightful commentary and the convenience of a guided experience. Since the guide can customize based on your interests, you might add visits to local museums or scenic viewpoints.
Bottom Line: If you want a guided, all-in-one day designed to highlight Matsuyama’s signature sights, this tour strikes a great balance of value and depth.
$154.75 per person
2. Matsuyama Private Customizable Full Day Tour
At number two, this fully customizable private tour allows you to shape your day in Matsuyama according to your personal preferences. For around $334.61, you get about 8 hours of flexible exploration with an English-speaking (or other language) guide. The beauty of this option is that you can prioritize what interests you most—be it visiting historic castles, relaxing in hot springs, exploring temples, or enjoying panoramic city views.
Once booked, you’ll receive a Tour Form that lays out options such as a peaceful temple amidst the mountains or a cultural visit dedicated to author Ryōtarō Shiba. You can also choose to include stops like the city’s famous castle ruins, or simply wander through lush green parks. Because this is a private tour, your guide will adapt on the fly and craft an itinerary based on your desires, making this ideal for travelers who want complete control over their day.
Pros include the ability to go at your own pace, focus on specific attractions, and skip anything that doesn’t interest you. The main drawback is the higher price point for a full-day experience.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who already have a list of must-see spots and want the freedom to explore without a strict schedule.
$334.61 per person
3. Ozu Private Customizable Full Day Tour
Our third pick is the Ozu Private Customizable Full Day Tour, costing about $278.54 per person for roughly 8 hours. While this tour doesn’t have reviews yet, it offers the same flexible, tailored approach as Matsuyama’s customizable option—great for those curious about exploring beyond the big city.
Ozu is known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture and a tranquil atmosphere that’s quite different from Matsuyama’s lively scene. Your itinerary might include a visit to a serene traditional villa, a historic residence of the Matsui family, or the famous Ozu Castle, which offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Its beautiful parks with seasonal flowers make for relaxing walks, and the tour can be customized to include local food stops or cultural experiences.
Since it’s a bespoke experience, this tour suits travelers eager to discover a quieter, more traditional side of Ehime. However, with no reviews, it’s a newer option that requires trusting the guide’s customization skills.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those interested in a peaceful, personalized exploration of Ozu’s historic streets and scenic parks.
$278.54 per person
How to Choose Your Perfect Ehime Full-Day Tour
When deciding between these options, consider your travel style and what you want from the day. If you prefer a guided, ready-made experience that covers the highlights in a structured manner, the Matsuyama Full-Day Private Trip with a government-licensed guide is hard to beat. Visit the link here to learn more.
For those who want full control over their itinerary and a chance to tailor their trip, the Matsuyama Private Customizable Full Day Tour offers excellent flexibility, especially if you have specific sites in mind. You can specify your interests through the provided form, making your day truly your own.
If exploring a quieter town with traditional architecture and scenic parks appeals to you, the Ozu Private Customizable Full Day Tour provides a personalized window into rural Ehime’s charm.
In terms of budget, consider your priorities: guided tours offer convenience and insights, while customizable tours might cost more but deliver a more personalized experience. Booking early is advisable, especially in peak seasons, to secure your preferred date and guide.
Final Thoughts
Ehime offers a range of full-day tours suited for different preferences. The guided Matsuyama trip is ideal for first-timers wanting a thorough overview. The customizable options in Matsuyama and Ozu are perfect if you want to tailor your experience and explore at a slower pace or focus on niche interests.
For a balanced trip that combines comfort, depth, and local flavor, the Matsuyama Full-Day Private Trip is an excellent choice. If you prefer crafting your own adventure, the customizable tours will give you the flexibility you desire. And if discovering a peaceful, traditional town like Ozu sounds appealing, the Ozu tour offers a unique alternative.
No matter which you choose, booking early ensures you’ll secure a spot. Ehime’s diverse full-day experiences make it an enriching part of your Japan itinerary—so pick the one that fits your style, and enjoy your journey through this scenic and historic part of Japan.