5 Must-Visit Japanese Restaurants Near Matsuyama Castle in Ehime Discover Oishii Japan -SAVOR JAPAN -Japanese Restaurant Reservation Guide-

Update-date: Feb 04 2025

Author: SAVOR JAPAN

5 Must-Visit Japanese Restaurants Near Matsuyama Castle in Ehime

Matsuyama Castle, located on a mountain in the center of Matsuyama City, boasts a magnificent keep. The view from the castle is stunning, and the panoramic view from the top floor of the keep is a must-see attraction. The subsequent enjoyment, of course, is gourmet food. This time, they have selected Japanese restaurants that one should visit when in Matsuyama.

See full listings of Japanese Cuisine restaurants found in and around Ehime.

1. Ippin Oryori Ootaki

Authentic Japanese Flavors in Matsuyama.

Since 2013, Ippin Oryori Ootaki has been a beloved spot in Matsuyama, a city known for Dogo Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest hot springs. Owner Mr. Ootaki, trained in Kyoto, carefully selects local and seasonal ingredients to create dishes that highlight their natural flavors. The menu offers up to 50 a la carte options daily, along with the popular "Kaiseki Course" and "Seasonal Hot Pot Course," which require reservations. A curated selection of local sake pairs perfectly with the seasonal cuisine.

The restaurant’s elegant Japanese-style interior blends sophistication with warmth. Guests can choose counter seating for an intimate experience or private rooms for a more secluded setting. The inviting atmosphere makes it comfortable even for first-time visitors, offering a refined yet relaxed dining experience. Whether for locals or gourmet travelers, Ippin Oryori Ootaki provides an unforgettable taste of Japanese culinary tradition.

Ippin Oryori Ootaki

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, Day Before National Holidays] 6:00 pm - 11:00 pm (L.O. 10:00 pm) The last entry for courses is at 9:30 pm. L.O. for drinks is 10:30 pm.
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 12,000 JPY
Access: 7-minute walk from Okaido Station on the Iyo Railway Lines
Address: 1F, 1-3-5, Niban-cho, Matsuyama-shi, Ehime Map
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2. Kyo-Fu Ippin Ryori Kiyomizu

A duet of refined flavors and attentive hospitality. A Japanese gourmet experience that inherits tradition.

Enjoy exquisite Japanese cuisine at Kyoufu Ippin Ryouri Kiyomizu. Here, course meals are offered based on carefully selected ingredients, maximizing the quality of the materials. The second generation, Mr. Moriwaki, showcases his skills by creating visually stunning dishes such as 'Sashimi Platter' and 'Seasonal Appetizers'.

If visiting Matsuyama, these are five must-visit Japanese restaurants to stop by when exploring Matsuyama Castle.

The restaurant offers a wide variety of alcoholic beverages, including Japanese sake and wine, that pair perfectly with meals. The service, which caters to the guests' preferences, is popular among many tourists. The interior features a calm atmosphere with a wood-based design. At the counter seats, guests can enjoy the lively conversation and the immersive craftsmanship of the chefs up close. There are also spacious private rooms that are perfect for family gatherings.

Kyoufu Ippin Ryouri Kiyomizu

Open: [Monday-Saturday, National Holidays, Day Before National Holidays] Dinner 5:00 pm - 10:00 pm (L.O. 9:30 pm)
Closed: Sunday
Average price: [Dinner] 15,000 JPY
Access: 5-minute walk from Katsuyamacho Station on Iyo Railway City Line
Address: 1-5-16, Niban-cho, Matsuyama-shi, Ehime
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3. Nanohana

They take pride in their creative Japanese cuisine made with Setouchi fish, Ehime vegetables, Iyo beef, and seasonal selected ingredients.

Located in the bustling area of Ichibancho, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, the restaurant Nanohana offers a quiet dining experience for adults. It serves authentic creative Japanese cuisine, allowing guests to savor seasonal ingredients. The bright atmosphere of the restaurant is casual and welcoming, making it easy to enter. The owner takes responsibility for sourcing the ingredients daily, and each dish is carefully prepared, reflecting the owner's dedication.

The counter seats, where customers can see the chef preparing dishes using seasonal ingredients, are in a sunken kotatsu style. They can easily place orders for flavors or ask about recommended dishes. Additionally, there are completely private rooms, allowing guests to enjoy a pleasant time without worrying about their surroundings. They can savor delicious food in a calm and serene atmosphere.

Nanohana

Open: [Weekdays, Saturday, National Holidays, Day before National Holidays] Lunch: 12:00 - 15:00 Reservations only / Dinner: 17:00 - 23:00
Closed: Mondays
Average price: [Dinner] 5,000 JPY / [Lunch] 3,000 JPY
Access: A 3-minute walk from Okaido station on the Iyo Railway/A 3-minute walk from the site where the Ichibancho Laforet was demolished
Address: Monarch II 1F, 2-4-2 Ichiban-cho, Matsuyama, Ehime
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4. Amimoto

A popular izakaya that serves dishes made with exceptionally fresh mackerel.

Located in the heart of Matsuyama city, Amimoto is a popular izakaya where one can enjoy surprisingly fresh seafood. They also cultivate mackerel in nearby waters, boasting a menu featuring fresh mackerel dishes such as 'saba shabu' and 'saba sashimi.' The fish is prepared from a large tank where it swims until an order is placed, ensuring exceptional freshness. Additionally, they offer a wide selection of local Ehime sake and shochu, as well as renowned sake from across the country, allowing guests to savor exquisite seafood alongside delicious drinks.

The restaurant features a row of large aquariums, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a mini aquarium. There are always around 1,000 fish swimming, including species like snapper, flounder, and mackerel. Additionally, the restaurant values a homey atmosphere to ensure that even first-time visitors can enjoy their experience. Be sure to savor this exquisite seafood at least once.

Amimoto

Open: Normal hours: 17:00 - 00:00 (last order 23:00)
Closed: None
Average price: [Dinner] 3,800 JPY
Access: Along the tracks between Matsuyama City Station and Tsuchihashi Station on the Iyo Gunchu Line
Address: 2-1 Kita Fujiwara-cho , Matsuyama-shi, Ehime
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5. Yukata Makoata

The specialty 'Ume Nabe' revitalizes the body, while the renowned proprietress uplifts the spirit at this Japanese restaurant.

The proprietress and staff enjoy drinks and laughter with guests, creating a scene that is quite ordinary. This restaurant, Yukatamakoata, embodies the personality and dedication of Ms. Kitayama, who has always shared her 'energy' with those around her. The star of the dishes is the 'Ume Nabe,' made with Kagoshima's black pork and seasonal vegetables delivered fresh every morning. Ms. Kitayama places particular emphasis on the vegetables, stating that they are served in a 'perfectly fresh state.'

The daily changing "little dishes" also encourage the enjoyment of drinks. On the other hand, the restaurant is often used for business meetings, and Mr. Kitayama's style is to give his all in customer service with a one-turn-a-day approach. Many guests come to this wonderful restaurant to gain energy from the landlady, who attentively cares for them and shares in the joy of conversation during happy times.

Yukatamakoata

Open: [Weekday,Saturday,Day Before Holidays] Dinner 6:00 pm - 10:30 pm (last order 9:45 pm)
Closed: Sunday,Holidays
Average price: [Dinner] 7,000 JPY
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Disclaimer: All information is accurate at time of publication.