5 Best Hotels in Dogo Onsen Ehime With Open Air Onsen

If you’re seeking a blissful retreat with a touch of traditional Japanese hospitality, you’ll absolutely love these top five hotels, each boasting its own open-air onsen. Located amid breathtaking natural beauty, these spots offer the ultimate rejuvenation experience. I personally recommend soaking in an outdoor hot spring while marveling at the scenic landscapes – it’s a must on your Japanese adventure.

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Summary Table

Hotel Name	Hotel Link	Highlights
Yamatoya Honten	Hotel Link	Authentic Japanese experience, on-site onsen, central location.
Hotel Kowakuen	Hotel Link	Scenic views, Open-air Onsen, and Traditional Cuisine
Funaya	Hotel Link	Open-air onsen, traditional Japanese cuisine, and sprawling views.
Yamatoya Besso	Hotel Link	Traditional Japanese design, open-air onsen, delicious cuisine.
Hotel Yachiyo	Hotel Link	Authentic Japanese experience, open-air onsen

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1. Yamatoya Honten

If you’re after a truly authentic Japanese experience, you can’t go past Yamatoya Honten. This charming hotel offers a unique blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern comforts. You’ll love the hotel’s warm and welcoming atmosphere, as well as the on-site hot spring bath, or onsen, which is perfect for relaxation after a long day of exploring.

• Room Types: You’ll find a wide variety of at Yamatoya Honten, including both Japanese and Western-style rooms. If you’re really up for a treat, consider booking one of the spacious suite rooms which feature a private open-air bath. Perfect for a romantic getaway or a relaxing solo trip.
• Dining: Yamatoya Honten also boasts an impressive experience. The hotel’s restaurant serves up a range of delicious, traditional Japanese dishes. The multi-course kaiseki dinners, featuring seasonal ingredients, are a must-try.
• Proximity: Location-wise, Yamatoya Honten is a real winner. It’s located right in the heart of Matsuyama, which means you’re just a stone’s throw away from the popular Dogo Onsen. Plus, Matsuyama Castle and the Matsuyama City Museum are also within easy walking distance. You’ll be in the perfect spot to explore everything this exciting city has to offer.
• Hotel Link: Yamatoya Honten

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2. Hotel Kowakuen

If you’re after an authentic Japanese experience, Hotel Kowakuen should be high on your list. This hotel boasts a tranquil atmosphere, an open-air onsen with stunning views, and a traditional Japanese architectural style that makes it a gem in the heart of Dogo Onsen. What makes it special? Well, it’s the perfect blend of tradition and modernity, which I think you’ll find truly delightful.

• Room Types: You’ll be spoilt for choice with a range of rooms to suit every need at Hotel Kowakuen. There are Traditional Japanese rooms for those looking for an authentic experience, Western-style rooms for those wanting a touch of home, and even mixed-style rooms that fuse both Western and Japanese elements. They even have rooms with private onsens for an extra touch of luxury.
• Dining: When it comes to food, Hotel Kowakuen knows how to impress. You’ll get to enjoy a traditional Japanese breakfast and dinner, featuring seasonal ingredients and local Ehime specialties. Trust me, the experience here is as much a feast for the eyes as it is for the palate.
• Proximity: If sightseeing is on your agenda, you’re in luck. The hotel is just a short stroll away from the famous Dogo Onsen Honkan, one of Japan’s oldest and most celebrated hot springs. Plus, it’s within easy reach of Matsuyama Castle, another must-visit spot. So, you’ll be perfectly placed to explore all that this charming region has to offer.
• Hotel Link: Hotel Kowakuen

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3. Funaya

If you’re looking for an authentic Japanese experience, you can’t beat Funaya. This hotel exudes traditional charm with tatami (woven-straw) floors, futon beds, and yukata robes for guests. But the standout feature is definitely the open-air onsen (hot spring). Soaking in the natural mineral water while gazing out at the surrounding landscape – it’s pure bliss. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time, but with all the modern amenities you’d expect, of course.

• Room Types: Funaya offers both Western and Japanese-style rooms. So whether you’re a fan of futon beds and tatami floors, or you prefer a more familiar Western-style bed, they’ve got you covered. Some rooms even come with a private open-air bath, perfect for unwinding after a day of sightseeing.
• Dining: Get ready to indulge your taste buds with Funaya’s traditional Japanese cuisine. Served in the privacy of your room, meals here are an experience in themselves. You’ll love their fresh, local seafood and seasonal ingredients – it’s a culinary journey through the best of Ehime’s cuisine.
• Proximity: As for location, Funaya is just a hop, skip and a jump away from Dogo Onsen Honkan, one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot springs. Plus, it’s only a 25-minute tram ride from JR Matsuyama Station, making it super convenient for travelers. And let’s not forget the local shops and eateries – you’re in the heart of Dogo Onsen, and everything is within easy walking distance. Trust me, you won’t run out of things to do during your stay at Funaya.
• Hotel Link: Funaya

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4. Yamatoya Besso

Yamatoya Besso is a beautiful blend of old-world charm and modern comfort. With its traditional Japanese design, the hotel offers a truly immersive experience of Japanese culture and hospitality. What makes it even more special is the open-air hot spring, or the onsen, where you can relax and unwind in the natural, mineral-rich waters while taking in the stunning views of the hotel’s Japanese-style garden.

• Room Types: If you’re booking a stay, you’ll find a range of to suit your needs. There are Western-style rooms for those who prefer a touch of home comfort, but for a more authentic experience, try one of the Japanese-style rooms complete with tatami mat floors, futon beds, and stunning garden views.
• Dining: For the foodies out there, you’re in for a real treat. The hotel’s experience is nothing short of spectacular with its multi-course Japanese-style meals. Fresh, seasonal ingredients are used to create exquisite dishes that are as pleasing to the eye as they are to the palate.
• Proximity: If you’re planning to explore the local area, you’ll be pleased to know that the hotel is just a stone’s throw away from some of Ehime’s top attractions. It’s a short 10-minute walk to the historic Dogo Onsen Honkan public bathhouse, and the Matsuyama Castle is just a quick tram ride away. Trust me, you’ll love the convenience!
• Hotel Link: Yamatoya Besso

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5. Hotel Yachiyo

If you’re after a truly authentic Japanese experience, then Hotel Yachiyo is the place for you. This beautiful establishment maintains a traditional Japanese aesthetic, giving you a chance to feel the magic of the country’s historical charm. The hotel’s open-air onsen is a definite standout, allowing you to soak in the warm, therapeutical waters while taking in the stunning surrounding nature.

• Room Types: There’s a room for every type of traveler at Hotel Yachiyo. If you’re traveling solo or with a partner, there are simple yet comfortable double rooms. If you’re with a group or family, you’ll appreciate the spacious Japanese-style rooms with multiple futon beds.
• Dining: You’re in for a experience like no other at Hotel Yachiyo. Every morning and evening, they serve traditional Japanese meals that are as delicious as they are beautifully presented. Plus, with a variety of local Ehime ingredients used, you’ll get a real taste of the region.
• Proximity: Location-wise, Hotel Yachiyo is a winner. It’s just a stone’s throw away from Dogo Onsen Honkan, one of Japan’s oldest and most famous hot springs. It’s also conveniently close to several local attractions, including the Matsuyama Castle and the Shiki Memorial Museum. So, whether you’re a culture enthusiast or a nature lover, you’ll have plenty to explore.
• Hotel Link: Hotel Yachiyo

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Summary Table

Hotel Name	Hotel Link	Highlights
Yamatoya Honten	Hotel Link	Authentic Japanese experience, on-site onsen, central location.
Hotel Kowakuen	Hotel Link	Scenic views, Open-air Onsen, and Traditional Cuisine
Funaya	Hotel Link	Open-air onsen, traditional Japanese cuisine, and sprawling views.
Yamatoya Besso	Hotel Link	Traditional Japanese design, open-air onsen, delicious cuisine.
Hotel Yachiyo	Hotel Link	Authentic Japanese experience, open-air onsen