Tonkotsu Ramen at Ikkou (一興)
in matsuyama EHIME
Even though it’s a tonkotsu base, the soup is surprisingly smooth, light, and easy to drink without being overly heavy or greasy. It still has plenty of rich umami, perfectly balanced with thin noodles, crunchy bean sprouts, and a tender slice of chashu.
If you prefer a cleaner, less heavy tonkotsu style, this place is definitely a must-try!
Found an incredible local eatery in Matsuyama, Ehime prefecture!
This is the "Daily Omakase Lunch Plate" from Kyudaime Nosan Shokudo (九代目能三食堂).
For just 500 yen, you get a massive plate loaded with different side dishes that change every day.
Today's plate included:
A generous serving of rice
Japanese fried chicken (Karaage) & Croquette
Rolled omelet (Tamagoyaki)
Mapo Tofu
The value for money here is absolutely insane. It's a true hidden gem beloved by locals. They are only open for a few hours on weekdays, so it’s a race against time!
Info:
Name: Kyudaime Nosan Shokudo (九代目能三食堂)
Location: Matsuyama, Ehime
Hours: Weekdays 10:30 AM - 1:30 PM
Highly recommended if you're ever in the area!
Every summer in Matsuyama, there’s one seasonal menu item I look forward to all year: the Zaru Ramen (Chilled Dipping Noodles) at Sukeroku (すけろく)!
If you’re visiting Ehime during the hot summer months, this is an absolute must-try local comfort food.
The Noodles: Chewy, ice-cold ramen noodles topped with a generous mountain of shredded nori seaweed.
The Dip: A rich, savory, and chilled sesame dipping sauce that pairs unbelievably well with the noodles.
The Side: Crispy, juicy Japanese fried chicken (Karaage) served fresh and hot—the ultimate contrast to the cold noodles!
Sukeroku is a beloved local Chinese-style diner chain all around Ehime. If you want to beat the heat like a local, definitely drop by and grab a bowl before summer ends!
📍 Location: Sukeroku (すけろく) - multiple locations around Matsuyama / Ehime Prefecture
Note: Cash only! (Make sure to bring JPY as card payments are not accepted).
While the adults performed their traditional dance in full costume, local kids in the crowd couldn't resist dancing along while watching them. It was so heart-warming to see how this centuries-old tradition gets passed down to the next generation naturally.
Location: Miyoshi City, Tokushima Prefecture
Event: Ikeda Awa Odori Festival (いけだ阿波踊り)
If you ever visit Matsuyama City in Ehime Prefecture, you have to check out Taiyoken (太養軒)!
I ordered their signature Katsu Curry—it's super affordable at just 920 yen, but the portion size is absolutely huge! The pork cutlet is crispy, and the curry sauce is rich and comforting. It’s a local favorite, especially if you want a hearty meal that won't break the bank.
Hey everyone!
If you happen to be traveling through Matsuyama, Ehime this weekend, you’re in for a pretty wild local festival that most standard guidebooks miss.
A quick piece of cool trivia:
Back in the day, the Japanese word for baseball ("Yakyu") was originally coined right here in Matsuyama by the famous haiku poet Masaoka Shiki. Naturally, the locals decided the most logical way to honor this rich sports heritage was... by turning baseball into a game-turned-dance festival called Yakyu-ken Odori! ⚾️🔥* (No bats, gloves, or actual athletic skills required—just pure dance ene*rgy).
Here is what’s going down over the next two days:
Tomorrow: 30 different dance teams will be performing back-to-back right through the Okaido Covered Arcade. The acoustics and energy inside the arcade are going to be wild!
Day After Tomorrow: The party moves outdoors for a massive Dance Fes at Horinouchi Park (right by the castle grounds).
If you’re currently in town, grab some local food, follow the drumbeats, and come check it out. No sports gear needed, just bring good vibes!
Locations:
📍 Okaido Shopping Street (City Center Arcade)
📍 Horinouchi Park (Base of Matsuyama Castle)
See you there!
Whenever people visit Matsuyama, "Taiyoken" is always recommended, so I had to try their famous Gatsu-Yakisoba.
It's packed with minced meat and has a strong garlicky soy sauce flavor that makes it super addictive. Definitely craving it again already.
Does your favorite town in Japan have a unique local comfort dish like this?
Tried the Chuka Soba at Mendo Semba, a popular ramen spot in Matsuyama, Ehime!
It’s run by a super friendly couple. Fun fact: the husband is so incredibly lucky that he made THREE holes-in-one in a single year playing golf! ⛳️
The ramen itself is a light pork bone broth (tonkotsu) made without any added MSG—absolutely delicious and comforting.
Plus, it comes with a noodle refill (kaedama) all for just 950 yen!
Highly recommend checking it out if you’re ever in Ehime. You might even catch some of that good luck! 🍜✨
Took this photo 2 days ago while exploring the Dogo area. Everyone knows Dogo Onsen, but this shrine just a short walk away blew me away.
The contrast between the vibrant vermilion paint and the crisp summer sky was unbelievable. Pro tip if you visit: Take your time on the stairs, especially in the summer—they are much steeper than they look in photos!