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There are great many things to do in Japan, and so are in Imabari.
Embark on a journey of discovery in Imabari, where the city’s charms wait to be explored like hidden treasures scattered throughout a vast landscape.
Without further ado listed below are some of the most fun things to do in Imabari:
1. Imabari Castle
Imabari Castle is a historical castle located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s museum, climb the castle tower for panoramic views of the city, and learn about the castle’s history through its exhibits and artifacts.
Don’t miss: The castle tower’s observation deck offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and surrounding islands.
Insider travel tips: The best time to visit Imabari Castle is during cherry blossom season in early April, when the surrounding castle park is filled with blooming cherry trees.
Also, be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the castle grounds involve a lot of walking and stair climbing.
2. Okunoshima Island
A small island located in Japan’s Seto Inland Sea, which is also known as “Rabbit Island” because of its large population of wild rabbits.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the island’s lush forests, search for rabbits to feed and interact with them, visit the Poison Gas Museum to learn about the island’s dark past as a chemical weapons manufacturing site during World War II, and enjoy the scenic views of the sea.
Don’t miss: Feeding the friendly rabbits that roam around the island, and visiting the island’s beautiful beach for a relaxing day by the sea.
Insider travel tips: Bring plenty of snacks for the rabbits, as they are used to being fed by visitors and love to munch on treats.
Visitors should also be mindful of the rabbits’ well-being and not disturb or harm them.
While on the island, be sure to try some of the local seafood dishes such as the famous “kaizoku don” (pirate rice bowl) which includes a variety of fresh seafood caught off the island’s shores.
3. Oyamazumi Shrine
Oyamazumi Shrine is a Shinto shrine located on Oyamazumi Island in Imabari, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is home to over 80,000 artifacts, including weapons, armor, and other objects related to Japanese military history. Visitors can view these artifacts in the attached museum, which also features interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.
Don’t miss: The highlight of the shrine is the chance to see an authentic samurai sword up close.
This is a rare opportunity to witness the expert craftsmanship that went into making these weapons, which were once wielded by Japan’s warrior class.
Insider travel tips: – Be sure to take a guided tour of the museum, as the exhibits can be overwhelming without some context.
4. Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge
Kurushima Kaikyo Bridge is a suspension bridge that connects the city of Imabari to Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The bridge provides spectacular views of the Seto Inland Sea and its islands. Visitors can drive or cycle across the bridge or take a sightseeing boat to admire the panoramic views.
Don’t miss: Take a walk along the pedestrian walkway of the bridge to experience the stunning views of the sea and the feeling of being suspended in the air.
Insider travel tips: Plan your visit during sunset, when the colors of the sky reflect in the water and create breathtaking vistas.
If you are driving, make sure to stop at one of the several observation points for a closer look at this engineering feat.
5. Seto Inland Sea National Park
Seto Inland Sea National Park is a national park located in the western part of Japan.
It comprises a cluster of islands and coastal areas along the Seto Inland Sea, which separates Honshu, Shikoku, and Kyushu islands.
What to see or do: The national park offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Japan.
From the scenic vistas of the islands to the beaches with turquoise waters, there’s a lot to experience in this national park.
Visitors can go hiking, kayaking, or cycling around the islands and coastal areas.
There are also several cultural landmarks and attractions to explore, such as the famous Seto Ohashi Bridge and the Teshima Art Museum.
Don’t miss: The beautiful island of Shodoshima is a must-visit destination in the national park.
Here, visitors can explore the island’s olive groves, enjoy the stunning views from Angel Road, and visit the famous Kankakei Gorge.
Insider travel tips: Visit the national park during the spring or autumn season for milder weather and vibrant natural landscapes.
Be sure to try the local culinary specialties, such as the fresh seafood, citrus fruits, and olive oil produced in the surrounding areas.
To fully experience the natural beauty of the national park, consider staying at a traditional Japanese ryokan or minshuku near the coastline.
6. Ishite-ji Temple
A Buddhist temple located in Imabari, Ehime, Japan, known for being one of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
What to see or do: Visitors can take in the beautiful temple architecture and surrounding natural scenery, and participate in regular Buddhist practices such as sutra copying.
The temple grounds also feature a traditional Japanese garden.
Don’t miss: The temple’s treasure house, which contains a collection of important Buddhist artworks and artifacts. Additionally, the temple is well-known for its “kaiten-nage,” a spinning move performed during martial arts demonstrations.
Insider travel tips: Visitors should consider taking part in a Shikoku Pilgrimage tour to fully experience the temple’s significance in Japanese religious and cultural history.
Additionally, be sure to sample some of Imabari’s famous local specialty, “Imabari towels,” which make for excellent souvenirs.
7. Taisan-ji Temple
Taisan-ji Temple is a serene Buddhist temple located in Imabari, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the temple grounds, including the main hall, pagoda, and beautiful gardens. The temple is known for its impressive collection of stone lanterns and cherry blossom trees.
Don’t miss: Don’t miss the stunning view of the surrounding mountains from the temple’s observation deck.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to take your time to stroll through the gardens and admire the many intricately designed lanterns. In the autumn months, the changing leaves make for a particularly picturesque scene.
Additionally, visitors can participate in a traditional Japanese tea ceremony at the temple’s tea house.
8. Imabari Towels Road
Imabari Towels Road is a popular tourist destination in Imabari, Japan, where visitors can explore the history and production of high-quality Imabari towels.
What to see or do: Visitors can tour multiple towel factories and see the production process from cotton to the finished product.
At the Imabari Towel Museum, learn about the history of towel making in the area and see some of the oldest Imabari towels in existence.
Don’t miss: The Imabari Towel Outlet shopping center, where visitors can purchase a wide variety of high-quality Imabari towels at discounted prices.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to visit multiple factories to get a full understanding of the production process and see the different styles and designs of Imabari towels.
9. Kirosan Observatory
Kirosan Observatory is a stunning viewpoint located in Imabari, Japan that offers breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea.
What to see or do: Visitors can hike up to the observatory and take in the picturesque views of the surrounding area. The hike takes around 30 minutes and is well worth the effort.
At the observatory, you can look out over the sea and the surrounding islands while feeling completely immersed in nature.
Don’t miss: The sunset at Kirosan Observatory is absolutely stunning and definitely worth staying for. The changing sky and sea create a mesmerizing view that is not to be missed.
Insider travel tips: Make sure to bring water and wear comfortable shoes as the hike can be steep in some areas. Additionally, check the weather forecast before you go, as visibility may be poor on rainy or foggy days.
10. Matsuyama Castle
A historic castle located in the city of Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the castle’s 21 buildings, gates, and towers, many of which have been preserved since the early 17th century.
The castle offers stunning panoramic views of the city and surrounding countryside, and there are numerous exhibits throughout the castle that showcase its history and significance.
Don’t miss: The castle’s famous stone wall, which spans over 2 kilometers and is considered one of Japan’s most impressive castle walls. It is also worth checking out the castle’s beautiful garden, which features a koi pond and traditional teahouse.
Insider travel tips: Visitors with mobility issues should be aware that the castle has many steep staircases and narrow walkways. It is recommended to wear comfortable shoes and visit on a clear day for the best views.
It is also worth noting that the castle can get crowded during peak tourist season, so plan accordingly.
11. Dogo Onsen
A historic hot spring located in the city of Matsuyama, Japan.
What to see or do: You can take a relaxing bath in the thermal waters at one of the several hot spring inns, or visit the Haiku staircase, which has 88 steps that lead to the main building of the spa, while reading poems etched on each step.
Don’t miss: Watching the Yumetake dance performance, a traditional dance for praying for good health and success, which is held daily at the Dogo Onsen Honkan.
Insider travel tips: Avoid the crowds by visiting in the morning or late at night, and try the famous local Imabari towels which are known for their high quality.
12. Ushimado Shrine
Ushimado Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Imabari, Japan.
It was built in 1912 to honor the god of the sea and to pray for the safety of sailors and fishermen.
What to see or do: Visitors can explore the shrine’s grounds and buildings to learn about the history and traditions of Shintoism. The main hall features intricate wood carvings and a large painting of the god of the sea.
There are also several smaller shrines and charms to pray for luck and good fortune.
Don’t miss: The shrine’s stunning location on a hill overlooking the Seto Inland Sea. The view of the sea and surrounding islands is breathtaking, especially during sunrise and sunset.
Insider travel tips: – The best time to visit Ushimado Shrine is during the annual “Ushimado Shrine Festival” in early August, when the local community comes together to celebrate with music, dance, and food.
13. Shimanami Kaido Cycling Route
A 70-kilometer cycling route that spans across a series of islands and bridges in Japan, connecting Imabari in Ehime prefecture to Onomichi in Hiroshima prefecture.
What to see or do: Enjoy the stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and the surrounding islands while cycling through picturesque towns and villages. The route includes six bridges, each with its own unique design and breathtaking views.
There are also plenty of opportunities to take a break and try local food specialties along the way.
Don’t miss: The Kurushima-Kaikyo Bridge, the world’s longest suspension bridge structure with a center span of 1,991 meters. It offers dramatic views of the surrounding islands and the sea.
Insider travel tips: Start early in the day to avoid crowds and make sure to bring sunscreen, as there is little shade along the route.
Most rental shops in Imabari and Onomichi offer one-way rentals, so you can return your bike at the end of the route.
Consider staying overnight at one of the towns along the way to fully experience the local culture and cuisine.
14. Tomishima Island
Tomishima Island is a small island situated in the Seto Inland Sea of Japan, easily accessible from Imabari City.
What to see or do: Tomishima Island is known for its beautiful beaches and crystal-clear waters, making it an ideal destination for swimming, sunbathing, and relaxing.
Visitors can also take a stroll around the island and enjoy the scenic views of the surrounding sea and nearby islands.
The island is also home to a small community of fishermen, and visitors can catch a glimpse of their traditional way of life.
Don’t miss: One of the main attractions on Tomishima Island is the stunning sunset view from the beach.
Visitors can also rent bicycles and explore the island at their leisure, or try their hand at fishing in the local waters.
There are also several small restaurants and shops selling local produce and souvenirs.
Insider travel tips: To fully appreciate the beauty of Tomishima Island, it is recommended to visit during the quieter months of the year, when the island is not crowded with tourists.
Visitors should also be sure to bring sunscreen, as the sun can be quite intense during the summer months. Lastly, visitors should be respectful of the island’s natural environment and follow local guidelines for waste disposal and conservation efforts.
15. Mikame Shrine
Mikame Shrine is a Shinto shrine located in Imabari City, Ehime Prefecture, Japan.
What to see or do: The shrine is known for its beautiful architecture, serene forested surroundings, and peaceful atmosphere. Visitors can view the impressive main shrine building, as well as smaller shrines and statues scattered throughout the grounds.
The thick forest surrounding the shrine provides a serene backdrop for a peaceful walk or meditation.
Don’t miss: The natural spring water fountain located on the shrine grounds is believed to have healing properties and is a popular spot for visitors to drink from.
Insider travel tips: Be sure to wear comfortable shoes as the shrine grounds are quite extensive and hilly.
It’s also recommended to visit during the early morning or early evening to avoid crowds and fully enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of the shrine.