1. What are the most popular shopping areas around Dogo Onsen?
Some popular shopping areas around Dogo Onsen include:
1. Dogo Shopping Street (also known as Shotengai) – this bustling shopping street is located right outside the Dogo Onsen Honkan (main bathhouse), and offers a variety of souvenir shops, local goods, and food options.
2. Dogo Matsuyama Shopping Arcade – located just a few minutes’ walk from the main bathhouse, this covered shopping arcade features over 100 shops selling everything from traditional crafts to trendy fashion items.
3. Yunomachi Shotengai – this charming street is lined with traditional shops selling local specialty products such as souvenirs, snacks, and handmade items.
4. Dobashi Shotengai – situated between Dogo Onsen station and the main bathhouse, this shopping street offers a mix of modern amenities like convenience stores and pharmacies, as well as traditional souvenir shops.
5. Okaido Shopping District – located in central Matsuyama city, about a 25-minute walk or short tram ride from Dogo Onsen, this bustling commercial district features over 200 shops including department stores, fashion retailers, and gourmet food options.
2. Are there any traditional markets or street vendors in Matsuyama?
Yes, there are several traditional markets and street vendors in Matsuyama.
One popular market is the Dogo Shotengai Shopping Street, located near Dogo Onsen. It is a lively covered shopping street with a mix of shops selling local delicacies, souvenirs, clothing, and household goods. Many of the shops have been family-owned for generations.
Other markets in Matsuyama include Hakata Station Market with fresh seafood and local produce, and the Tobe Soba Market known for its handmade buckwheat noodles.
There are also street vendors scattered throughout the city offering various snacks and treats such as grilled squid on a skewer (ika-yaki), octopus dumplings (takoyaki), and sweet potato cakes (imo-yokan).
3. How crowded does it get on weekends at the shopping centers?
It can get quite crowded on weekends at shopping centers, as many people may have free time to shop and run errands. The level of crowding may also depend on the specific shopping center and its location. Some popular or city center shopping centers may be more crowded than others.
4. Can you bargain for prices at the markets in Matsuyama?
Yes, bargaining for prices at markets in Matsuyama is possible but it is not as common as in other countries. Most items at markets have fixed prices, especially if they are sold by individual vendors. However, some larger markets might have areas or stalls where bargaining is more acceptable, such as at flea markets. It is always best to politely ask if there is room to negotiate and be prepared to walk away if the price does not meet your budget.
5. Are there any specialty items or products unique to the Dogo Onsen area?
Some specialty items unique to the Dogo Onsen area include:– Tobe pottery: This style of pottery has been produced in the nearby town of Tobe for over 200 years and is known for its delicate white and blue designs.
– Botchan dango: These bite-sized, three-colored dumplings are a popular local snack named after the main character in Natsume Soseki’s novel “Botchan,” who visits Dogo Onsen.
– Yuzu products: The region is famous for its high-quality yuzu, a type of citrus fruit. You can find various yuzu products, such as yuzu juice, yuzu tea, and yuzu cosmetics.
– Traditional crafts: The area is also known for traditional crafts like bamboo baskets and sandals, wooden toys, and handcrafted knives.
6. Are there any recommended local souvenirs to buy in Matsuyama?
Some recommended local souvenirs to buy in Matsuyama include:– Botchan dango (sweet dumplings with red bean paste)
– Imabari towels (high-quality cotton towels made in the neighboring city of Imabari)
– Uchiwa (traditional Japanese hand fans)
– Bocchan-zou figurines (small statues of the main character from Natsume Soseki’s novel “Botchan”)
– Satsuma-kiriko glassware (hand-cut colored glasses)
– Tobe-yaki pottery (traditional pottery made in the nearby town of Tobe)
– Mikan (mandarin oranges grown in Ehime prefecture)
– Local sake or shochu (Japanese alcoholic drinks)
7. What is the currency used for shopping in Japan and are credit cards widely accepted?
The currency used for shopping in Japan is the Japanese Yen. Credit cards are widely accepted in large cities and popular tourist destinations, but smaller shops and businesses may only accept cash. It is always a good idea to have some cash on hand when traveling in Japan.
8. Are there any special discounts or sales during certain seasons or holidays at the shopping centers?
It varies from shopping center to shopping center, but many tend to have sales and discounts during major holidays such as Christmas, Easter, Black Friday, and Labor Day. Some shopping centers may also offer seasonal promotions or discounts for back-to-school shopping or end-of-season clearances. It’s always a good idea to check the respective shopping center’s website or social media pages for any upcoming sales or promotions.9. Is it possible to find international brands and luxury products in Matsuyama’s shopping district?
Yes, it is possible to find some international brands and luxury products in Matsuyama’s shopping district. Some department stores, such as Mitsukoshi and Daimaru, carry high-end foreign brands like Louis Vuitton, Gucci, and Prada. Additionally, you can also find luxury items in local specialty stores and boutiques, particularly in the area around Dogo Onsen. However, the selection may not be as extensive as in larger cities like Tokyo or Osaka.10. Are there any popular malls or department stores near Dogo Onsen?
There are several popular malls and department stores near Dogo Onsen, including the Dogo Ginza Shopping Street, Dogo Aeon Mall, and MEGA Don Quijote Matsuyama. These offer a variety of shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for visitors to enjoy.
11. Are there any tax-free options for tourists when shopping in Matsuyama?
1. Consumption Tax Exemption Program for Visitors: This program allows tourists to receive a tax refund on their purchases of consumable items (such as food, beverages, and cosmetics) at participating stores. To be eligible, you must spend at least 5,000 yen in one day at the same store and show your passport/documents proving that you are a tourist. The current consumption tax rate in Japan is 10%, so travelers will save 8% on their purchases.
2. Duty-Free Shops: Matsuyama has several duty-free shops where tourists can shop for tax-free items such as electronics, cosmetics, and souvenirs. These shops require a minimum purchase amount and may have certain restrictions on the types of items that are eligible for tax exemption.
3. Department Stores: Some department stores offer duty-free shopping for international tourists on certain days of the week or during specific promotional periods. Be sure to check with individual stores for their policies.
4. Tax-Free Shops: Similar to duty-free shops, there are also designated tax-free shops in Matsuyama that specialize in selling tax-exempt goods to foreign visitors.
5. Fuku-Bukuro (Lucky Bags): Many stores in Matsuyama offer “fuku-bukuro,” or lucky bags, during special sales periods (usually around New Year’s Day). These bags contain a selection of products at discounted prices and may also include tax-free items.
6. Online Shopping: If you are not planning to visit physical stores, you can also take advantage of online shopping and have your purchases delivered to your hotel or residence in Japan. Some online retailers may offer tax-free options for international visitors.
Note: It is always recommended to ask the store staff about their tax exemption policies before making any purchases.
12. What types of clothing can be found at the markets and shops near Dogo Onsen?
At the markets and shops near Dogo Onsen, you can find a variety of traditional Japanese clothing such as yukata (light cotton kimono), happi coats (short-sleeved coats typically worn during festivals), and geta (wooden sandals). You may also find modern clothing such as t-shirts and other souvenirs with prints featuring local attractions. Additionally, there may be shops selling onsen-related clothing such as towels and robes. Some shops may also sell high-quality kimono and accessories for special occasions.
13. Can you find locally made crafts and artwork in Matsuyama’s markets and shops?
Yes, you can find locally made crafts and artwork in Matsuyama’s markets and shops. Some popular places to find them include the Dogo Shopping Street, Matsuyama Ropeway Station Gift Shop, and local flea markets such as the Biwaichi Market. Local artisan shops and galleries also offer a variety of handmade goods such as pottery, wood carvings, and traditional crafts like indigo dyeing. Be sure to look for items that are labeled as “made in Matsuyama” or “locally produced” to support the local artists and craftsmen.
14. Is it common to haggle or negotiate prices at shops and markets in Matsuyama?
Haggling and negotiating prices is not very common in Matsuyama, especially at established shops and markets. However, it may be more acceptable at smaller local markets or when purchasing larger items. It is always best to politely ask if there is room for negotiation before attempting to haggle.
15. Are there any recommended food souvenirs to bring back from Matsuyama’s markets?
Some recommended food souvenirs from Matsuyama’s markets include:
1. Yuzu flavored products such as yuzu juice, yuzu jam, and yuzu peel.
2. Mikan (mandarin orange) products such as mikan jelly, mikan mochi, and mikan sake.
3. Uwajima sea bream or tai chazuke (rice porridge with grilled fish and tea).
4. Sanuki udon noodles and tsuyu dipping sauce.
5. Kurumi-manju (walnut cake).
6. Omatsuri senbei (rice crackers) in various flavors such as soy sauce, shrimp, and seaweed.
7. Kibidango (sweet rice dumplings).
8. Tamamo manju (red bean paste filled buns).
9. Imabari towels made from high-quality cotton.
10. Sake from local breweries such as Nihon Takamatsu Sake Brewery or Shikoku Chuoishi Brewery.
11. Dried seafood products like teshima saba (mackerel), dried octopus, and dried squid.
12. Matcha green tea and wagashi sweets.
13. Katsuobushi (dried bonito flakes) used for making dashi broth.
14.Vegetables and fruits unique to Ehime prefecture such as hakusai cabbage and pink fleshed apples.
15.Takotaki senbei (octopus-flavored rice crackers).
16. How accessible are the shopping areas from Dogo Onsen, and what modes of transportation can be used?
The shopping areas in Dogo Onsen are very accessible and can be reached on foot within a few minutes from the main area of Dogo Onsen. Some shops may be farther away, but still within walking distance.
Alternatively, visitors can also take the local tram called “Yunosato-sen” from Dogo Onsen Station to the shopping streets. The fare is only 160 yen each way and the tram runs every 10-15 minutes.
Taxis are also available for those who prefer a more comfortable mode of transportation.
17. Are there any farmers’ markets or fresh produce stands near Dogo Onsen where visitors can buy local fruits and vegetables?
Yes, there are several farmers’ markets and fresh produce stands near Dogo Onsen where visitors can buy local fruits and vegetables. Some popular options include:
1. Matsuyama Farmers’ Market – located about 10 minutes away from Dogo Onsen, this market offers a wide variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, and other locally grown produce.
2. Dogo Morning Market – located just a few steps away from Dogo Onsen, this market is open every morning and features fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and other local products.
3. Shimanami Farmers’ Market – located in Imabari City about 45 minutes away from Dogo Onsen, this market offers a selection of fresh fruits and vegetables as well as handmade goods from local artisans.
4. Saka no Kura Farm Stand – located about 30 minutes away from Dogo Onsen in the town of Kamijima, this farm stand specializes in organic produce such as tomatoes, peppers, eggplants, and more.
Other smaller produce stands can also be found along the roads leading to Dogo Onsen or at roadside rest stops along the way. Be sure to ask the locals for their recommendations for the best spots to find fresh produce in the area.
18. Can you find good deals on traditional Japanese items such as kimonos or pottery in Matsuyama’s markets?
Yes, Matsuyama has a variety of markets where you can find good deals on traditional Japanese items such as kimonos and pottery. Some popular markets for these items include Dogo Shopping Arcade, Shiroyama Market, and Bocchan Ichiba Market. In these markets, you can find a range of products at different price points, so it is possible to find good deals if you are willing to do some searching and bargaining. Additionally, many of the city’s festivals and events also feature market stalls selling traditional Japanese goods at discounted prices.
19.Along with shopping, are there any other activities or events happening around Dogo Onsen that visitors should know about?
Yes, there are several activities and events that visitors can enjoy in Dogo Onsen. Some of these include visiting the nearby Matsuyama Castle, exploring the streets and traditional architecture of the Dogo Onsen Honkan area, attending a tea ceremony at the nearby Ishite-ji Temple, and participating in various cultural events and festivals such as the Shiki-no-Matsubara Cherry Blossom Festival and the Dogo Summer Festival. Additionally, visitors can take part in outdoor activities such as hiking or cycling around the surrounding mountains or renting a rowboat to explore the moat around Matsuyama Castle.
20.Can you recommend a good place to buy gifts for friends and family back home at a reasonable price near Dogo Onsen?
One option could be Okuno Gift Shop, located just a short walk from Dogo Onsen. They offer a wide variety of unique and traditional Japanese gifts such as yukata robes, pottery, crafts, and snacks at affordable prices.