[For Seniors] Brain Training with Ehime Prefecture Local Quizzes! Enjoy Rediscovering the Region’s Charms

Botchan

Natsume Soseki’s novel Botchan is set in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture. Drawing on Soseki’s own experiences teaching English at Matsuyama Middle School (now Matsuyama Higashi High School), it tells the story of a newly appointed teacher who stirs up various commotions in a rural town on the island of Shikoku. The protagonist is known for his strong sense of justice and quintessential Edo temperament, and the work is beloved for its many colorful characters. Matsuyama boasts numerous tourist spots and local specialties associated with Botchan, making it a literary classic that represents Ehime and is cherished by locals as well.

Dogo Onsen

Dogo Onsen, located in Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture, is one of Japan’s most renowned ancient hot springs, with a history said to span about 3,000 years. The Dogo Onsen Honkan is designated as an Important Cultural Property and retains the atmosphere of the Meiji era to this day. Among hot spring resorts nationwide, it is particularly esteemed for its historical value and is highly popular with tourists.

Tobe ware

The correct answer is “Tobe ware.” Tobe ware is pottery produced in places such as Tobe Town in Iyo District, Ehime Prefecture, and it has a very long history. It is characterized by blue and indigo designs, and is popular for everyday use because of its durability. In 1976 (Showa 51), it was designated as a Traditional Craft of Japan, which helped make it known nationwide. The other options—Arita ware and Hagi ware—are ceramics made in Saga Prefecture and Yamaguchi Prefecture, respectively.

Iyo Province

Until the early Meiji period, the area of Ehime Prefecture was called Iyo Province. In Japan, each region had an old provincial name until the abolition of domains and establishment of prefectures during the Meiji Restoration. The term Iyo has been in use since the Heian period, and its legacy can still be seen today in Ehime’s history, traditional events, and food. Well-known examples include iyokan (a type of citrus) and Iyo dialect. Tosa is the old provincial name for present-day Kochi Prefecture, and Awa is the old name for Tokushima Prefecture.

Matsuyama City

The prefectural capital of Ehime Prefecture is Matsuyama City. Matsuyama is the largest city in Shikoku and is home to many public facilities and government institutions. The city is dotted with historical landmarks and tourist attractions. It is also very famous as a production area for mikan and other citrus fruits, taking advantage of its mild climate.

towel

Imabari City is nationally renowned for its “Imabari Towels.” Known for their superior absorbency, softness, and durability, Imabari Towels are beloved by many and are exported not only throughout Japan but overseas as well. Over the city’s long history, artisans have refined their craft, supported by abundant local water resources. Products bearing the Imabari Towel mark are regarded as proof of high quality. In this way, towel production makes a significant contribution to Imabari City’s industry and regional revitalization.

Jakoten (fried fish cake made from small fish)

Jakoten is a traditional local dish representing the Nanyo region of Ehime Prefecture. It is made by grinding small fish (mainly harambo and lizardfish) whole with their skin and bones, then deep-frying the paste. Using the bones and skin makes it rich in nutrients such as calcium. It has long been eaten in fishing towns as a preserved food, snack, or side dish, and it is still loved by locals today. Its appealing texture and simple, rustic flavor also make it a popular souvenir and gift.