Matsuyama Central, People + Religious pictures

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The dark, angled slates and glass panels create a stylish building to house a museum based on a novel dear to Matsuyama locals.

The Meiji and Taisho periods come to life through the translucent antiques in this museum. See how glass cutting can inspire the most unlikely themes.

Soak in the natural thermal water and admire the architecture and period décor of the bathhouse that inspired the wonderful drawings of the animated film Spirited Away.

Picturesque cherry blossom trees form a different kind of moat around a three-story feudal castle with views extending across Matsuyama.

Follow in the regal footsteps of the emperors who delighted in the natural thermal water spas of this hub for relaxation.

Artistic portrayals of heaven and hell are separated by a pair of charming corridors that run through this 1,300-year-old temple.

Artistic portrayals of heaven and hell are separated by a pair of charming corridors that run through this 1,300-year-old temple.

Linked to the development of the Japanese haiku, this ancient temple is perched on a forested hill and provides stunning vistas.

A temple and park with a slide and scenic vegetation provide relief from the commercial streets and transportation hubs making up the city center.

Glass-melding and Buddhist shrines set the stage for old-world Japan, while steaming hot springs used by the imperial family create an otherworldly setting.