Island town(Japan) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

In Ujima Town, the best choice for sea views is Ujima Town Bay Resort, located just steps from Ujima Port. This resort blends traditional Japanese architecture with modern amenities, offering private ocean-view rooms, an on-site hot spring bath, and a restaurant serving fresh seafood sourced daily. The rooftop terrace is perfect for watching sunrise over the Pacific Ocean. Guests can also join guided local experiences like "Island Pottery Workshops" to create handmade souvenirs using native clay.

For first-time visitors, the Central Ujima Town District is ideal. It’s close to the Ujima Town Office, Island Market, and main bus stops, making it easy to explore. Walk along the Omi River to enjoy cherry blossoms in spring and illuminated willow trees at night. Accommodations here include boutique inns like Fū no Ie Inn, known for homely hospitality and meals made with locally grown ingredients, offering an authentic island experience.

Ujima Town offers unique traditions such as the annual Shima Matsuri Festival, featuring traditional dances, sacred kagura performances, and a communal fish-sharing ceremony. Visit the Ujima Town Historical Archive to learn about maritime heritage and farming history. Don’t miss the hands-on Bamboo Weaving Workshop, where master artisans teach how to craft baskets and lanterns using locally harvested bamboo—perfect for taking home a meaningful souvenir.

Absolutely! Ujima Town is highly family-friendly, with spacious parks and safe walking trails. Omi Park features a children’s playground, nature pond, and shaded picnic areas. Many guesthouses provide free baby equipment like cribs and strollers. The Island Elementary School Museum combines interactive exhibits with nature education, letting kids explore marine life and local history through play—making learning fun and engaging.

Must-try dishes include bonito sushi and island crab donburi, both made with freshly caught seafood. Try them at Umifū Shokudō, famous for its signature dish, Shioyama Donburi, enhanced with local sake. Also sample red bean rice balls (anpan) from the century-old shop Chiyoya, whose soft, chewy exterior and sweet filling are beloved by locals and visitors alike.

The Ujima Lighthouse, perched on a cliff overlooking the Pacific, offers stunning photo opportunities, especially during golden hour. Another favorite is the Omi River Suspension Bridge, lined with decorative rope knots and draped in blooming wisteria during spring. The rooftop garden of the Island Library provides panoramic views of the town and distant mountains—a dream location for capturing serene, human-nature harmony.

Take the Iyo Railway Bus from Matsuyama City, which takes about 1 hour to reach Ujima Town’s central bus station. For a scenic journey, depart early to pass by Kume Island Shrine and farmland near Mount Ishizuchi. For more freedom, rent an electric bicycle and ride along the Nishi-yo Coastal Route, stopping at scenic overlooks and seaside cafés along the way.

While not a major spa destination, Ujima Town has several natural hot springs. The most renowned is Ujima Onsen Betsuin, nestled in the foothills with mineral-rich, slightly alkaline waters ideal for relaxation. The onsen features open-air baths and wooden soaking pools, beautifully lit at night. Some guesthouses, like Tsuki no Yado, offer private onsen suites with personalized service, perfect for unwinding in a tranquil, natural setting.

Spring brings the Cherry Blossom Festival along the Omi River, where the blooming trees create a pink canopy, enhanced by evening light displays. In summer, the Sea Festival includes a fireworks show and traditional boat procession. Autumn features the Harvest Ceremony, where visitors can participate in rice planting and threshing. Winter’s Island Lantern Festival lights up streets with paper lanterns, symbolizing hope and renewal.

Yes, public transit is well-maintained. The Ujima Town Bus Terminal connects regularly to Matsuyama and Imabari. Most attractions and inns offer complimentary shuttle services. For independent exploration, rent an electric bike or bicycle along the Coastal Greenway Trail, complete with rest stops and informative signage—ideal for leisurely, eco-friendly sightseeing.