Located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, Dogo Onsen Honkan is a historic bathhouse that Hayao Miyazaki himself named as one of the inspirations for the bathhouse “Yubaba’s Aburaya” in Spirited Away. With its breathtaking traditional wooden architecture and rich onsen culture, it offers visitors a travel experience that bridges the boundary between animation and reality. This article introduces the structure’s highlights, its connection to the film, and practical travel information.
What Is Dogo Onsen Honkan? Its History and Features
Japan’s Oldest Hot Spring with 1300 Years of History
Dogo Onsen is regarded as one of Japan’s oldest hot springs, mentioned even in the ancient Manyoshu poetry anthology. It’s said that Prince Shotoku bathed here during the Asuka period. Over the centuries, it has become a beloved healing destination for countless visitors.
At the center stands Dogo Onsen Honkan, a three-story wooden bathhouse built in 1894. Its elaborate structure and historic design continue to fascinate those who visit.
Here’s a table summarizing the basic details of Dogo Onsen Honkan:
| Item | Description |
|---|---|
| Year Built | 1894 (Meiji 27) |
| Structure | Three-story wooden architecture |
| Cultural Status | Designated Important Cultural Property (since 2009) |
| Main Baths | Kami-no-Yu, Tama-no-Yu |
| Key Features | Traditional architecture; Ghibli connection |
This is a place of exceptional architectural and cultural value.
Why Dogo Onsen Honkan Was One of the Inspirations for Yubaba’s Bathhouse
Officially Acknowledged by Hayao Miyazaki
While several locations inspired the bathhouse “Aburaya” in Spirited Away, Hayao Miyazaki himself named Dogo Onsen Honkan as one of them.
Its layered, majestic wooden exterior, intricate roof structure, and complex interior corridors strongly resemble the world depicted in the film.
Here is a comparison of the architectural elements:
| Features of Dogo Onsen Honkan | Similarities to Aburaya in the Film |
|---|---|
| Three-story wooden structure | Reminiscent of Aburaya’s grand exterior |
| Multi-layered and complex rooflines | Accurately reflected in the animation |
| Interior with shoji and latticework | Evokes the mystical and traditional fusion |
The building itself serves as a visual foundation for the fantastical atmosphere of the movie.
What You Can Experience at Dogo Onsen Honkan
Step Into a Space That Feels Straight Out of the Movie
Dogo Onsen Honkan is not just a bathhouse but a living piece of history and a hands-on cultural attraction. Multiple types of baths and rest areas allow visitors to feel immersed in the movie’s world.
| Facility | Features | What You Can Do |
|---|---|---|
| Kami-no-Yu | Public bath, accessible to everyone | Enjoy the ambiance reminiscent of the film |
| Tama-no-Yu | Premium space with private rooms | Relax in a tranquil and upscale atmosphere |
| Yushinden | Bathing room for the imperial family (viewing only) | Witness a formally designed historic space |
| Rest Area | Traditional tatami rooms | Unwind peacefully post-bath |
Each space offers a deeply immersive experience, akin to wandering into one of the film’s scenes.
How to Get There and Suggested Pilgrimage Plan
Easy Access from Central Matsuyama and a Balanced Sightseeing Route
Dogo Onsen Honkan is easily accessible via a 20-minute streetcar ride from central Matsuyama. Located just minutes from Dogo Onsen Station, it’s perfect even for first-time visitors.
Here’s a sample plan for enjoying a one-day pilgrimage:
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 10:00 AM | Arrive at Dogo Onsen Station; stroll the retro townscape |
| 11:00 AM | Tour Dogo Onsen Honkan; bathe in Kami-no-Yu or Tama-no-Yu |
| 1:00 PM | Enjoy local dishes like tai-meshi and jakoten |
| 2:30 PM | Visit Botchan Clock and Dogo Park |
| 4:00 PM | Take a coffee break, shop for souvenirs, and return |
This route offers a well-balanced and fulfilling itinerary for pilgrims and tourists alike.
Nearby Attractions Around Dogo Onsen Honkan
Explore Cultural and Historical Sites to Enrich Your Journey
In addition to the bathhouse, the surrounding area features numerous places of interest. These enhance the travel experience for anime fans and cultural explorers alike.
| Spot Name | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Botchan Train | Reproduction of a Meiji-era steam locomotive |
| Haikara Street | Retro shopping street with eateries and souvenir shops |
| Isaniwa Shrine | Stunning vermilion shrine popular for love blessings |
| Dogo Park | A peaceful park with seasonal flowers and castle ruins |
With so many options nearby, Dogo Onsen transcends its role as just a bathhouse to become a vibrant destination.
Top 3 Recommended Souvenirs
Before you leave, consider bringing home one of these popular local specialties to remember your trip:
| Rank | Item | Features |
|---|---|---|
| 1st | Botchan Dango | Named after the novel, soft and sweet rice dumplings |
| 2nd | Dogo Beer | Local craft beer—perfect for relaxing post-bath |
| 3rd | Jakoten | Deep-fried fish cake—a savory souvenir or snack |
Taking a piece of Dogo home allows you to prolong the emotional resonance of your pilgrimage.
Conclusion
Dogo Onsen Honkan is more than just a bathhouse. It is a place where Japanese tradition and Ghibli fantasy merge in perfect harmony. Stepping inside, one feels transported—drawn into a serene, dreamlike world.
It is a sacred site for Studio Ghibli fans, but also a rewarding cultural destination for any traveler. With immersive architecture and rich experiences, this location tells its own story—one you can walk into and live out.
If you’re planning a trip to Ehime, don’t miss the chance to explore Dogo Onsen Honkan and discover your own Spirited Away story among its wooden beams and steamy baths.
