#Matsuyama

Uchiko is a tiny town on the main island of Shikoku, about a 25-minute ride on the Uwakai Express from the prefectural capital Matsuyama. It’s home to the Uchiko-za, a historic theatre building.

The theatre was built back in 1916 as a two-storey wooden building in a traditional Japanese style. In 1985, it reopened after a major refurb. Nowadays, it occasionally puts on evening Kabuki and Bunraku theatre shows for a bit of fun.

But popping by during the day is totally worth it too, as the theatre opens its doors for a peek behind the scenes. You can roam freely around the building, grab a spot on one of the wooden seats, step up onto the stage or even try on costumes. Down in the basement, you can see how the historic revolving stage and the stage lift are operated.

The theatre is just a 5-minute walk from Uchiko station. The entrance is tucked away down a little side street. Entry is 400¥. With a 900¥ combo ticket, you can also check out the local history museum and the Kamihaga residence. Don’t forget a good pair of socks, ‘cause you have to take your shoes off before you go in! 😉

Our detour takes us to Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands. In its biggest city, Matsuyama, you’ll find one of the oldest bathhouses in the country, the Dōgo Onsen Honkan. It was built in 1894 and served as inspiration for the anime Chihiro.

You can reach Matsuyama Castle by cable car (or alternatively a chairlift). We also visited Dōgo Park and admired the Botchan Karakuri Clock, whose chimes depict a visit to a bathhouse.