Getting to Uchiko

Uchiko is on the JR Yosan Line’s inland route south of Matsuyama, and it is one of the easiest day trips in Ehime. Most people combine it with Ozu.

Routes to Uchiko at a glance

Times are typical journey times; fares are rough guides. Timetables change every spring — check the operator before you travel.

By train from Matsuyama

The Uwakai limited express leaves JR Matsuyama about once an hour and reaches Uchiko in around 25 minutes; rail passes cover it. Sit on the left for mountain views. Local trains take about an hour — make sure you board one routed via Uchiko, because some locals take the separate coastal line through Shimonada instead.

From the station to the old town

From Uchiko Station it is a flat 10-minute walk to Uchiko-za and about 20 minutes to the start of the preservation district; brown signs point the way. A retro-styled loop bus and taxis are sometimes available at the station, and bicycles can be rented nearby — handy if you want to continue to Ikazaki.

Getting around Uchiko

Everything in the centre is walkable, and the main street slopes gently uphill from the theatre to the Kamihaga Residence. If you arrive by car, park at the upper car park and walk down, or at the lower one near the roadside market and walk up.

Getting to Ehime and around the prefecture: the full guide