Ehime Prefecture is located in the northwestern part of the Shikoku region, with Matsuyama City as its capital. Among the four prefectures of Shikoku, Ehime has the largest population and functions as the region’s political, economic, and cultural center. The area of the prefecture corresponds closely to the former Iyo Province, and it is known for its harmonious blend of history and nature.
Geography and Regional Composition
Ehime Prefecture consists of various areas with distinct climates and terrains, including:
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Chuyo Region (Matsuyama City, Iyo City, etc.): Centered around the prefectural capital Matsuyama, this area serves as the political and economic hub of the prefecture.
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Toyo Region (Imabari City, Niihama City, Saijo City, etc.): A key industrial area where manufacturing and shipbuilding industries are well developed.
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Nanyo Region (Uwajima City, Yawatahama City, etc.): Known for its warm climate, this region thrives in agriculture and fishing, with abundant natural scenery.
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Inland Area (Kumakogen Town, etc.): Characterized by high altitudes and a cool climate, this area supports forestry and the cultivation of highland vegetables.
Climate Characteristics
Ehime’s climate varies significantly by region, supporting diverse lifestyles and industries:
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Seto Inland Sea Side (Chuyo and Toyo): Warm and dry throughout the year, typical of the Seto Inland Sea climate. Water resources are limited, making drought countermeasures a major concern.
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Nanyo (Uwakai Coast): Influenced by the Kuroshio Current, the climate is relatively warm and humid year-round. Typhoons and heavy rain are common from summer to autumn.
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Inland Areas (e.g., Kumakogen): High elevation results in a cold winter climate with snowfall, which is rare in Shikoku. Ski resorts are also found here.
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Special Weather Phenomena: In the eastern part of the prefecture, strong winds known as yamaji-kaze frequently occur, sometimes damaging crops.
During summer, the area is often covered by the Pacific high-pressure system, leading to high temperatures and frequent heatwaves and tropical nights. Winters are generally mild, though cloudy and rainy days are more frequent compared to the Pacific coast.
Economy and Industry
Ehime’s industries are well-balanced across manufacturing, agriculture, and fisheries, each leveraging regional characteristics:
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Manufacturing: In the Toyo region (e.g., Niihama, Saijo, Imabari), shipbuilding, chemical, and machinery industries are well developed.
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Agriculture: In the Nanyo region, fruit cultivation is popular, including Unshu mikan (satsuma mandarins), Iyo-kan, and kiwifruit. The region is known nationwide for its citrus fruit brand power.
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Fisheries: Along the Uwakai coast, aquaculture (pearls, yellowtail, etc.) is active, and coastal fishing also plays a major role in the regional economy.
Culture and Tourism
Ehime offers a rich array of tourism resources rooted in history, literature, and nature:
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Dogo Onsen (Matsuyama City): Considered Japan’s oldest hot spring, it is also famous as the setting of Natsume Soseki’s novel Botchan.
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Matsuyama Castle: One of the twelve original castles remaining in Japan, located in the heart of the city and serving as both a tourist attraction and a relaxing place for locals.
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Shimanami Kaido (Imabari City to Onomichi, Hiroshima): A popular cycling and driving route offering breathtaking views of the Seto Inland Sea and its many islands.
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Uwajima Castle and Uchiko Town: Historical towns with preserved traditional architecture and atmosphere.
Matsuyama is also known as the “City of Haiku,” deeply associated with the poet Masaoka Shiki. Haiku culture is well integrated into everyday life, and haiku mailboxes can be found throughout the city—one of its unique charms.
Summary
Ehime Prefecture is a livable and attractive region that combines the mild climate of the Seto Inland Sea, rich natural beauty, and a long history and culture. With famous attractions and local specialties like citrus fruits, Dogo Onsen, and the Shimanami Kaido, it showcases strong regional identities while maintaining a balanced coexistence of urban life and nature. As a gateway to Shikoku, it continues to draw attention in tourism, industry, and daily living.