Dogo Onsen claims to be Japan’s oldest onsen. Whether this is true or not, it is certainly one of the oldest in Japan. Dogo Onsen is located in Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, on the western coast of Shikoku. This area has been frequented since the sixth century when many artists and nobilty often visited.

Although newer bathhouses have been erected, the oldest building is over 100 years old and is the only onsen in Japan to have a special bath reserved for the imperial family alone. This is a pretty wee onsen town and is well worth a visit.