Imo-daki (taro stew)

A famous autumn tradition in Ehime Prefecture is imotaki. It’s especially popular in cities like Ōzu and Seiyo, where people gather to enjoy a local hot-pot dish featuring taro as the star ingredient, simmered with chicken, konjac, deep-fried tofu, and more. Gathering around pots on the riverbank is an important event that fosters community interaction and camaraderie. It also differs from Yamagata Prefecture’s imoni-kai in both ingredients and seasoning.

pearl

Ehime Prefecture is known for its thriving pearl cultivation. In particular, Uwajima Bay (Uwajima Sea) has long been a center for cultivating Akoya pearls using Akoya oysters, and their beautiful luster is famous nationwide. Pearls are gemstones that are formed inside a shell over many years, and they are often used in traditional Japanese ornaments. While other options like diamonds and rubies are made from minerals, pearls are unique as the only gemstones that are cultivated in the sea. Familiar to many older adults, pearls are cherished for traditional Japanese attire and as commemorative gifts.

Shimanami Kaido

The Shimanami Kaido, officially called the Nishi-Seto Expressway, is a road that connects Onomichi in Hiroshima Prefecture with Imabari in Ehime Prefecture. It links multiple islands by bridges, forming a major artery between Honshu and Shikoku. In addition to motor vehicles, pedestrians and cyclists can also use it, and it is especially popular nationwide as a cycling destination. One of its attractions is the ability to enjoy the beautiful scenery of the Seto Inland Sea on a drive or cycling trip.

Matsuyama Castle

Matsuyama Castle is a castle located in the center of Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, renowned for its beautiful stone walls and its keep, which is one of Japan’s twelve surviving original keeps. Built by Kato Yoshiaki, the castle’s impressive stone walls showcase a robust defensive design and are a highlight. From the keep, you can enjoy panoramic views of Matsuyama City, making it very popular with tourists. Many valuable Edo-period structures remain, making it a place where you can truly feel the history.

mandarin orange

Ehime Prefecture is one of Japan’s leading mandarin orange production areas. Taking advantage of the warm Seto Inland Sea climate and sun-drenched slopes, the region produces mandarins that excel in both quality and quantity. In particular, “Ehime Mikan” are renowned nationwide and are popular as gifts. Beyond mandarins, selective breeding of citrus varieties has advanced, and a wide range of citrus fruits such as “Dekopon” and “Setoka” are also cultivated. Even so, mandarins can truly be called the representative fruit of Ehime Prefecture.

Nanyo

Ehime Prefecture is divided into three regions: Tōyo, Chūyo, and Nanyo. Tōyo includes cities such as Niihama and Saijō; Chūyo includes Matsuyama and Iyo; and Nanyo refers to the southern part of Ehime, including cities like Uwajima and Yawatahama. Nanyo is known for the cultivation of mikan and other citrus fruits, taking advantage of its mild climate, and it is also attractive for its nature-rich fisheries and tourism. In particular, areas such as the Uwa Sea and Ashizuri-Uwakai National Park offer beautiful scenery to enjoy.

Bary-san

Barry-san is the PR character of Imabari City in Ehime Prefecture, and he’s also famous for winning the Grand Prix at the 2012 Yuru-chara Grand Prix. He looks like a bird, wears a belly warmer, and has a crown inspired by the Kurushima Kaikyō Bridge. He also carries a boat-shaped wallet, symbolizing local industries and culture. When you visit Imabari, you can find his merchandise and panels all around the city—he’s a character much loved by the citizens.