Iyotetsu Tram Lines - Image 1
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Iyotetsu Tram Lines

4
·195 reviews·Matsuyama, Japan

Matsuyama's historic Iyotetsu Tram Lines, including the charming Botchan Train, offer a nostalgic and convenient way to explore the city.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother rides

CrowdLow
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Iyotetsu Tram Lines - Image 1

Iyotetsu Tram Lines

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, smoother rides

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Matsuyama's historic Iyotetsu Tram Lines, including the charming Botchan Train, offer a nostalgic and convenient way to explore the city.

4
(195 reviews)

"Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station is an essential, reliable base for sightseeing, impressing with comfort, cleanliness, and friendly staff."

Vertical photo
TIP

🎟️ Day Pass for Savings

Grab a day pass for unlimited rides and save money exploring Matsuyama's sights.

🚂 Botchan Train Tickets

Book Botchan Train tickets early, they can be expensive and fill up fast!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Botchan Train Ride

Botchan Train Ride

Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station

Experience a charming, retro steam train journey inspired by Natsume Soseki's novel.

Dogo Onsen Connection

Dogo Onsen Connection

Various Tram Lines

Easily reach Japan's oldest hot spring resort via the convenient tram network.

Matsuyama Castle Access

Matsuyama Castle Access

Various Tram Lines

The trams provide direct access to the city center, making it simple to visit the iconic Matsuyama Castle.

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Planning Your Visit

Navigating Matsuyama's Tram Network

The Iyotetsu Tram Lines are Matsuyama's primary public transport. Familiarize yourself with the different lines and their routes to easily access key attractions like Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle. Consider purchasing a day pass for unlimited travel.

The Charm of the Botchan Train

The historic Botchan Train offers a unique, nostalgic ride. While tickets can be pricey and it gets crowded, its retro design and the experience of seeing the conductor manually turn the train are memorable. Check schedules in advance.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, smoother rides
Crowd
Low
When
Late afternoons
Why
Catch the golden hour glow
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

創作料理店でデザートとして作ったプリンが大好評で誕生したプリン専門店 #坂の上の猫プリン 高島屋洛西店は10月17日まで “sakanouenoneko”The store is located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture.
@coffeedays365
157.1K likes • 2.9M views

🎟️ Day Pass for Savings

Grab a day pass for unlimited rides and save money exploring Matsuyama's sights. Reddit

🚂 Botchan Train Tickets

Book Botchan Train tickets early, they can be expensive and fill up fast! TikTok

Welcome to Matsuyama, Japan! Officially the “vlogger era” ni Ivan Guzman #Travelph #LearnItOnTikTok #Vlog #xyzbca
@ivangodsman
19.7K likes • 211.3K views
reddit.com

Matsuyama Advice

📍 Station Convenience

Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station is a hub with shops, cafes, and helpful staff for easy navigation. Reddit

🍊 Orange Buses Too!

Don't forget Iyotetsu's unique orange buses connect to areas not served by trams. Reddit

reddit.com

Is it worth stopping in Matsuyama for a night or should I head straight to Hiroshima?

Tips

from all over the internet

🎟️ Day Pass for Savings

Grab a day pass for unlimited rides and save money exploring Matsuyama's sights. Reddit

🚂 Botchan Train Tickets

Book Botchan Train tickets early, they can be expensive and fill up fast! TikTok

📍 Station Convenience

Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station is a hub with shops, cafes, and helpful staff for easy navigation. Reddit

🍊 Orange Buses Too!

Don't forget Iyotetsu's unique orange buses connect to areas not served by trams. Reddit

What Travellers Say

4
(195 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Travelers find the Iyotetsu Tram Lines incredibly convenient for navigating Matsuyama, with the historic Botchan Train being a unique, albeit sometimes crowded, highlight. The main station is praised for its accessibility and helpful staff, making it a reliable base for exploring the city's attractions.

"I found out on the day upon arriving at this station that there is a special steam train service that goes to Dogo Onsen. I think its called botchan train

I did not try it as the ticket is expensive and a lot of people is trying it. There is only 1 passenger car, from the outside I can see people standing and being packed like sardine. 😅

Having said that, I still liked the retro design and the sound it makes. I also get to see the conductor pushing the train and rotating the train around to start the trip back to where it came from.

Visited at 30 Mar 2025"

De Xing Ong

"Big station!"

Zero 27 (M)

"Located in the heart of Matsuyama City, Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station is convenient for both sightseeing and business, boasting excellent accessibility. As a terminal station for buses and trams to various parts of the city, it offers smooth travel to major attractions like Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen, and Gintengai. The clean and spacious station premises make it easy for first-time visitors to navigate without getting lost.

The ticket gates and signs are easy to understand, and the staff are very polite and helpful. When I asked about local information or how to access tourist spots, they were happy to explain things clearly with a smile, allowing me to explore Matsuyama with ease. The station is also home to a convenient convenience store, cafe, and souvenir shop, making it easy to find a place to take a break or do some shopping. Shops selling local specialties and sweets are especially popular, making it perfect for finding souvenirs to take home.

The frequent and punctual trains and trams ensure smooth travel. The area around the station is frequented by both tourists and locals, creating a vibrant and lively atmosphere. Furthermore, the plaza and bench space in front of the station are convenient for meeting up or even taking a quick break during your trip.
It's an extremely convenient base for sightseeing and travel in Matsuyama, and I was impressed by the comfort and cleanliness of the station itself, as well as the friendly staff. Whether you're visiting Matsuyama for the first time or a repeat visitor, using Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station as your base is sure to make your trip smoother and more enjoyable. I felt it was a reliable station, essential for sightseeing in Matsuyama."

Y K

What People Like

Convenient city access
Historic Botchan Train
Helpful station staff

What People Dislike

Botchan Train can be crowded
Botchan Train ticket price

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Iyotetsu Tram Lines are the most convenient way to navigate Matsuyama. They connect major attractions like Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen. You can also utilize the distinctive orange Iyotetsu buses for routes not covered by trams. Reddit

Yes, Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station serves as a major hub for both trams and buses, offering excellent accessibility to various parts of the city. Reddit

Absolutely! Several tram lines, including the popular Botchan Train, will take you directly to the historic Dogo Onsen area. TikTok

While trams are primary, Iyotetsu also operates a network of orange buses that serve areas beyond the tram lines, providing comprehensive coverage. Reddit

Trams run frequently throughout the day, ensuring you won't have to wait long to reach your destination. Check local schedules for specific line timings. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

You can purchase single ride tickets or opt for a day pass, which offers unlimited travel and is often more economical for extensive sightseeing. Reddit

Day pass prices can vary, but they generally offer great value for exploring multiple attractions. It's best to check the latest pricing at the station or online. Reddit

Yes, you can typically purchase single ride tickets directly on the tram. However, for convenience and potential savings, consider buying a day pass beforehand. Reddit

The Botchan Train operates on a separate fare and can be more expensive than regular trams. It's advisable to inquire about its specific ticket pricing and purchase options. TikTok

Information on discounts for specific age groups may be available. It's recommended to inquire at the station or check the official Iyotetsu website for details. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The Botchan Train offers a unique, nostalgic journey with its steam engine and retro carriages, inspired by a famous Japanese novel. It's a popular attraction, so expect crowds. TikTok

Yes, the station is described as big, clean, and well-signed, making it easy for first-time visitors to find their way around. Staff are also noted for being polite and helpful. Reddit

The station offers convenience stores, cafes, and souvenir shops, making it a convenient place to take a break or pick up local specialties. Reddit

The station staff are very helpful and can provide local information and directions to tourist spots, assisting you in exploring Matsuyama with ease. Reddit

The area around Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station is vibrant and lively, frequented by both tourists and locals, creating an energetic atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the retro charm of the Botchan Train, especially with its unique steam engine. The trams themselves, with their distinctive orange color, make for great street photography against Matsuyama's backdrop. TikTok

You can often photograph the Botchan Train departing from or arriving at Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station. The scenic routes it takes also offer picturesque backdrops. TikTok

Early mornings or late afternoons can offer softer light and fewer crowds, enhancing your photographic opportunities. The golden hour can add a beautiful glow to your shots. Instagram

Yes, you can take photos inside the trams, but be mindful of other passengers. The vintage interiors of the Botchan Train are particularly photogenic. TikTok

Generally, casual photography is allowed. However, avoid intrusive photography, especially of individuals, and be aware of any posted signs regarding photography in specific areas. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Iyotetsu Tram Lines offer a fun and easy way for families to get around Matsuyama. The novelty of riding a tram, especially the Botchan Train, can be a highlight for children. The trams are generally safe and provide a comfortable way to travel between attractions without the hassle of driving or parking. TikTok

Consider purchasing a day pass to allow kids to experience multiple tram rides without worrying about individual fares. Visiting Dogo Onsen is also a family-friendly activity, and the trams provide direct access. Pack snacks and drinks, as while there are shops at the main station, onboard services are limited. Reddit

💰 Budget Travelers

For budget-conscious travelers, the Iyotetsu Tram Lines are an excellent choice. Opting for a day pass is the most economical way to explore Matsuyama, offering unlimited travel for a fixed price. This significantly reduces transportation costs compared to taxis or individual tickets. Reddit

While the Botchan Train is a unique experience, its higher fare might be a consideration for strict budget travelers. Prioritizing the regular tram lines will allow you to visit key sites like Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen without breaking the bank. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Historic Botchan Train

The Botchan Train is a beloved attraction in Matsuyama, a steam locomotive that recreates the experience of early 20th-century rail travel. Inspired by Natsume Soseki's novel "Botchan," which satirized the Iyo Railway of its time, this train offers a unique glimpse into the past. Visitors can witness the conductor manually rotating the locomotive at the end of its journey, a charming and distinctive feature. TikTokReddit

While the retro design and historical significance are major draws, it's worth noting that the Botchan Train can be quite popular, leading to crowded conditions and a higher fare compared to regular trams. Some travelers find the ticket price steep for the short ride, and the single passenger car can feel packed. However, for those seeking a truly unique and memorable experience that connects them to Matsuyama's literary and industrial history, the Botchan Train is a must-consider. TikTok

To make the most of your Botchan Train experience, it's recommended to check the operating schedule in advance, as it doesn't run every day. Arriving early at Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station can also help secure a spot and allow for better photo opportunities of the train before it departs. TikTok

Iyotetsu Tram Network: Your Matsuyama Navigator

The Iyotetsu Tram Lines form the backbone of public transportation in Matsuyama, providing an efficient and accessible way to explore the city. This network connects key destinations, including the bustling city center, the historic Matsuyama Castle, and the renowned Dogo Onsen hot spring resort. The trams are a familiar sight, often characterized by their distinctive orange livery, and are a convenient alternative to taxis or extensive walking. Reddit

Navigating the system is generally straightforward. Iyotetsu Matsuyama Station serves as a central hub, where you can easily transfer between different tram lines and also access the Iyotetsu bus terminal. The station itself is well-organized, with clear signage and helpful staff, making it user-friendly even for first-time visitors. Reddit Travelers often praise the punctuality and frequency of the trams, ensuring smooth transit throughout the day. Reddit

For visitors planning to do a lot of sightseeing, purchasing a day pass is highly recommended. This pass allows for unlimited rides on the trams and buses within a designated period, offering significant cost savings and the freedom to hop on and off as you please. It's an economical choice that enhances the flexibility of your exploration of Matsuyama. Reddit

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