Access Routes from Matsuyama Tourist Port to Dogo Onsen (Limousine Bus, Train Transfer, Taxi)

This article outlines the main access routes from Matsuyama Tourist Port to the Dogo Onsen area. It explains the lack of direct bus services, the transfer procedures between limousine buses and city trams, and the connection with ferry schedules.

1. Main Means of Transportation and Overall Image from Matsuyama Kanko Port to Dogo Onsen Area

"Matsuyama Kanko Port" is the gateway for arriving in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture by ferry and high-speed boat (Super Jet) from Hiroshima (Ujina Port) or Kokura (Kokura Port). When aiming for the Dogo Onsen area from Matsuyama Kanko Port, multiple access routes exist.

The main means of transportation include: (1) using the Iyotetsu Limousine Bus to travel to the center of Matsuyama City and transferring to the tram, (2) traveling to Takahama Station and transferring between the Iyotetsu suburban train and the tram, and (3) a direct route using a taxi.

An important prerequisite fact when planning your travel is that there is no limousine bus operating directly from Matsuyama Kanko Port to Dogo Onsen Station. Therefore, when using public transportation, transfer procedures at major hubs along the way (such as Matsuyamashi Station) are required.

2. Operation Form of Iyotetsu Limousine Bus and Transfer Procedures at the Destination

The Iyotetsu "Matsuyama Kanko Port Limousine Bus" departing from Matsuyama Kanko Port is a route connecting the port terminal with the center of Matsuyama City. The major stops where it makes stops are limited to three locations: "JR Matsuyama Station-mae", "Ehime Shimbun-sha mae", and "Matsuyamashi Station".

The fare structure (per adult) is as follows. ・To JR Matsuyama Station-mae: 980 yen cash / 960 yen cashless payment ・To Ehime Shimbun-sha mae and Matsuyamashi Station: 1,080 yen cash / 1,060 yen cashless payment

※A discount of 20 yen is applied by using cashless payment. Eligible payment methods include nationwide transportation IC cards (ICOCA, Suica, etc.) and the "Mican App". Child fares are half of the adult fare (rounded up to the nearest 10 yen).

In the official Iyotetsu guidance, when heading to the Dogo Onsen area, the recommended route is to get off at the last stop, "Matsuyamashi Station", and transfer to Route 3 (bound for Dogo Onsen) of the city tram. Matsuyamashi Station serves as a train terminal, allowing smooth connection to the tram bound for Dogo Onsen.

3. Transfer Route via Takahama Station (Walk/Connecting Bus + Iyotetsu Suburban Train/City Tram)

As a public transportation option other than the limousine bus, there is a route via "Takahama Station" on the Iyotetsu suburban Takahama Line, which is the closest railway station from Matsuyama Kanko Port.

From Matsuyama Kanko Port to Takahama Station, you travel by foot or connecting bus. Board the Iyotetsu suburban train (Takahama Line) from Takahama Station and travel to the last stop, "Matsuyamashi Station". After arriving at Matsuyamashi Station, go through the ticket gates to the tram stop, and transfer to Route 3 city tram bound for Dogo Onsen to aim for the last stop, Dogo Onsen Station.

This route is an option when you want to prioritize punctuality by rail, in consideration of the number of limousine bus runs or the arrival timing of boat services.

4. Overview of Taxi Usage and How to Plan Your Movement

A taxi stand is installed outside the terminal of Matsuyama Kanko Port. Taxis are considered when you have a lot of luggage such as large suitcases, or when you want to move directly to accommodations in the Dogo Onsen area without transfers.

Since the required time and fares vary depending on road traffic conditions, it is common to check the approximate time and fare with the taxi driver waiting at the stand before boarding. Especially when traveling in a group of multiple people, it is selected after comparing and considering it with the total fares of public transportation.

5. Concept of Bus Timetables Connecting with Boat (Ferry/Super Jet) Arrivals

The operation schedules of the limousine buses departing from and arriving at Matsuyama Kanko Port are set to connect with the arrival times of ferries and Super Jets of Ishizaki Kisen and Setonaikai Kisen. The corresponding ship service names are listed on the timetable, and a connection is secured so that passengers can board the bus after the ship arrives at the port.

However, the bus operation times may change due to ferry timetable revisions (for example, the departure time of the 21:55 service changed from November 1, or the 22:35 service suspended). Additionally, departure times may be adjusted due to delays in aircraft or ships, so it is recommended to check the latest operation schedule matching the date of use.

Furthermore, when traveling around Shikoku using a West Japan area tour pass (for example, the ALL SHIKOKU Rail Pass), there are cases where Iyotetsu trains and buses are not included in the pass's scope of application. Since it is clearly stated that the "ALL SHIKOKU Rail Pass" cannot be used on any Iyotetsu lines (city trams, suburban trains, and buses), please note that the limousine bus fare from the port and the city tram fare must be paid separately.

6. Points to Note When Traveling with Large Luggage

When travelers from overseas have carry-on bags or large suitcases, care is required in selecting the movement route. When boarding limousine buses or city trams, you must carry your luggage into the vehicle yourself.

In particular, city trams (streetcars) have limited space in the aisles and near the doors, and during crowded times, getting on and off with large luggage may take time. When traveling with a lot of luggage, choosing less crowded times for buses or trains, or combining means of transportation that do not require transfers will lead to a smooth journey.

Operating hours, fees, and transportation schedules of each facility are subject to change. Please check the detail page of each spot and official information for the latest information.