Japan is a beautiful country — the kind of place that’s perfect for a vacation, exploring culture, and enjoying the vibrant nightlife. For most people, that’s the image of Japan: a dream destination filled with neon lights, delicious food, and breathtaking scenery.

But there’s another side of Japan that often goes unnoticed. Beyond the temples, cherry blossoms, and bustling cities, Japan is also a leader in innovation and technology. Behind all that progress is something deeply rooted, a strong culture of research and world-class education. This makes Japan not just a tourist hotspot, but also a hub for higher learning.

We’ve all heard about Japan’s top universities in Tokyo or Kyoto, right? But what’s it like to study in the countryside? In this article, I’ll take you to a quiet corner of Matsuyama City, the home of Ehime University, and give you a glimpse of what life feels like as a graduate student in this peaceful, charming countryside city.

What to do in Matsuyama?

Living in Matsuyama is like stepping into a calm, authentic side of Japan, where tradition and everyday life beautifully blend together. The city has a peaceful rhythm that lets you appreciate both culture and nature at your own pace.

One of the best parts of living here is the strong sense of community. Locals are friendly and welcoming, and there’s always something happening, from neighborhood matsuri (festivals) to university events.

Of course, Matsuyama’s most famous spot is Dōgo Onsen, said to be Japan’s oldest hot spring and a perfect place to unwind after a long week. Not far from it stands Matsuyama Castle, perched on a hill with a stunning panoramic view of the city, which is especially beautiful during cherry blossom season, when people gather for hanami (flower viewing) picnics.

If you love history and literature, you’ll enjoy the city’s connection to Natsume Sōseki’s “Botchan”, one of Japan’s classic novels. You can even hop on the cute Botchan Train or visit the Botchan Karakuri Clock, which comes to life every hour with a little mechanical show. For relaxing weekends, explore Okaido and Gintengai, two covered shopping arcades filled with cafés, vintage shops, and local food spots.

Whether it’s soaking in an onsen, joining a festival, or simply exploring the streets lined with trams and local stores, Matsuyama has this quiet charm that makes everyday life feel special.

Living Expenses

Compared to big cities like Tokyo or Osaka, living in Matsuyama is much more affordable. Rent for a small apartment near the university usually ranges from ¥20,000 to ¥50,000 per month, depending on size and location. Groceries and daily essentials are reasonably priced, and if you cook your own meals, you’ll save a lot. Eating out won’t hurt your budget either , a hearty bowl of ramen costs around ¥700–900.

Utilities, internet, and phone bills are manageable, and there are plenty of thrift and secondhand stores where you can find furniture, bikes, or even electronics for cheap. Overall, Matsuyama offers a comfortable and budget-friendly student life.

Transportation

Getting around Matsuyama is simple and convenient. The city’s tram system , one of the few still running in Japan , connects most key areas like the train station, downtown, and Dōgo Onsen. The fare is a flat ¥230 per ride, making it both easy and affordable.

Most students prefer riding a bicycle for daily commutes. Matsuyama is compact, bike-friendly, and safe, so cycling around campus or to nearby stores becomes part of your everyday routine. For longer trips, JR Matsuyama Station links you to other major cities in Shikoku, and there’s even a ferry to Hiroshima that takes about two hours, perfect for a weekend adventure.

Why study in Matsuyama?

Studying in Matsuyama feels like finding balance between focus and relaxation, tradition and modernity, learning and living. It’s a place where you can grow academically while still enjoying the warmth of a small community and the beauty of nature around you.

Life here moves at a gentler pace compared to Japan’s major cities, giving you the time and space to reflect, think deeply, and truly enjoy your student journey. You can spend your weekdays immersed in research and your weekends soaking in an onsen, hiking up to Matsuyama Castle, or chatting with locals over coffee.

What makes it even more special is the feeling of connection, to the people, the culture, and your surroundings. For international students, Matsuyama offers not only quality education but also an authentic glimpse of Japanese life beyond the city lights.

So, if you’re dreaming of studying in Japan and want an experience that’s both inspiring and peaceful, Matsuyama might just be the perfect place to call your second home.