About
The modern Yawatahama Ferry Terminal building opened in April 2022, featuring clean lines and integrated facilities
Yawatahama Port & Ferry Terminal serves as the "western gateway to Shikoku," a vital maritime connection between Shikoku and Kyushu that has shaped the region's history for centuries. 🔗 The port achieved historical significance during the Meiji Restoration when Yawatahama's industrial prowess earned it the nickname "Manchester of Shikoku," pioneering modernization with the first bank in Shikoku (1878) and electric lights (1889). 🔗
In April 2022, the terminal relocated to a new location on reclaimed land, unveiling a stylish modern building that has transformed the arrival experience. 🔗 The terminal seamlessly integrates with Michi-no-Eki "Yawatahama Minatto," a vibrant roadside station complex that serves as both a tourism hub and community gathering place.
Cultural & Historical Significance
The new terminal features a 4th-floor observation deck offering panoramic views of the bustling port, the tranquil Seto Inland Sea, and the picturesque Mukainada Terraced Fields rising behind the port. 🔗 These terraced mikan fields are recognized as part of the "Ehime / Nanyo citrus farming system," designated as a Japan Agricultural Heritage Site for their unique "three suns" cultivation method (direct sunlight, reflection from the sea, and heat retained by stone walls). 🔗
The Minatto complex includes the Doya Market - Shikoku's largest fish market - offering exceptional fresh seafood from the morning catch, Agora Marche featuring local citrus products and regional specialties, and the Minato Koryukan tourist information center providing comprehensive guidance for exploring Ehime. 🔗
Visiting Information
Ferry Services:
- Uwajima Unyu Ferries: Operates from Beppu and Usuki with up to 6 departures daily 🔗
- Kyushi Orange Ferry: Offers 7 daily departures from Usuki 🔗
- Beppu to Yawatahama: 2 hours 50 minutes crossing time 🔗
Local Transportation:
- To Matsuyama: 40 miles (64 km) via Route 378, approximately 50-60 minutes drive 🔗
- Route 378 (Yuyake Koyake Sunset Line): Scenic coastal road with Seto Inland Sea views 🔗
- Important: Local bus service does NOT operate on weekends and public holidays - use taxis on Culture Day 🔗
Yawatahama Minatto Operating Hours:
- Minato Koryukan: 9:00 AM - 9:30 PM 🔗
- Doya Market: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM (irregular closing times) 🔗
- Doya Shokudo Restaurant: 10:00 AM - 2:00 PM 🔗
- Overall facility: 8:30 AM - 6:00 PM 🔗
- Closed: December 29 - January 3 🔗
Parking:
- Free parking at Minatto: 197 spaces available 🔗
- Adjacent to ferry terminal (2 minutes from disembarkation)
The Terminal Experience
4th Floor Observation Deck: The highlight of the new terminal building, offering sweeping panoramic views of the port operations, ferries arriving and departing, the Seto Inland Sea, and the stunning Mukainada Terraced Mikan Fields cascading down the mountainside. Excellent for photography, especially during sunset or when large ferries are in port. 🔗
Café Petit Pont (2nd Floor): Enjoy food, drinks, and sweets while admiring beautiful sea views from the terminal's second floor. 🔗
Doya Market - Shikoku's Largest Fish Market:
The Doya Market is a rare facility jointly managed by 16 fish brokers who sell fresh fish directly from the morning auction. As Shikoku's largest fish market, it offers an incredible variety of freshly caught fish and shellfish with an energetic, authentic atmosphere. 🔗
Open to the public on weekends with a lively market atmosphere where you can see the local fishing industry in action. Some vendors offer seafood BBQ areas where you can grill your own fresh purchases. 🔗
Doya Shokudo Restaurant: Seafood restaurant directly managed by Doya Market, serving exceptional kaisen-don (seafood rice bowls) and champon noodles made with the day's catch. Visitors report delicious set meals of freshly caught fish for around 1,000 yen. 🔗
Local Specialties - Jakoten & Jako-katsu:
Yawatahama's most famous local food specialty: jakoten, a traditional Ehime fish cake made from fresh raw fish (typically harambo) mashed down to the bone and skin, then deep-fried. This nutritious delicacy is recognized as one of Japan's "100 best local dishes" by the Ministry of Agriculture. 🔗
Jako-katsu is the breaded and deep-fried cutlet version. At Doya Market, these cost only 50 yen per piece - an exceptional bargain for authentic local flavor. 🔗
Agora Marche - Mikan & Local Products:
Yawatahama produces the most unshu mikan in Ehime Prefecture, Japan's number one citrus producer. The unique terraced cultivation creates the famous "three suns" effect, producing exceptionally sweet and flavorful mikan. 🔗
Available products include:
- Fresh mikan and specialty Hinomaru Oranges (prized local variety)
- Freshly squeezed mikan juice
- Marmalades and jams (Yawatahama hosts the world marmalade-making competition!)
- Mikan-themed sweets and desserts
- Seasonal fruits and vegetables
- Regional souvenirs and crafts 🔗
Additional Amenities:
- Lawn Square: 4,400 square meters for relaxation and outdoor activities 🔗
- Boardwalk: 140-meter long wooden boardwalk with seaside views 🔗
- Tourist Information: Comprehensive maps, brochures, and assistance for exploring Ehime region 🔗
Practical Visiting Tips
November Arrival Considerations:
- Average temperatures: Highs 16-18°C (61-64°F), Lows 10-12°C (50-53°F)
- Pack layers and rain protection
- Morning ferry arrivals offer excellent natural lighting for photography
- November is optimal for Route 378 drive with calm weather and clear sunsets 🔗
Culture Day (November 3rd) Specific Factors:
- National holiday with significantly heavier traffic
- Roads to Matsuyama will be congested
- Recommendation: Drive directly to Matsuyama after brief Minatto stop to account for traffic delays
- Matsuyama Castle, Dogo Onsen will be very crowded
- Local bus service does NOT operate on public holidays 🔗
Recommended Timing Strategy:
Optimal Schedule:
- Disembark ferry - follow crew guidance (5-10 minutes)
- Drive to Minatto parking - adjacent to terminal (2 minutes)
- Quick exploration (30-60 minutes):
- Visit Doya Market for fresh seafood or jakoten samples
- Browse Agora Marche for mikan products and souvenirs
- Use restrooms and stretch legs
- Take photos from boardwalk or observation deck
- Depart for Matsuyama - 50-60 minute drive via Route 378
- Best to leave by mid-morning before afternoon holiday crowds
- Allow extra time on Culture Day for potential traffic
Alternative: Extended stop (1-1.5 hours) for full Doya Shokudo kaisen-don meal experience before continuing to Matsuyama.
Photography Opportunities:
- 4th Floor Observation Deck: Panoramic port and terraced field views 🔗
- Minatto Boardwalk: Seaside views with mikan terraces backdrop
- Ferries: Large modern ferries against natural harbor
- Mukainada Terraced Fields: Designated as Shikoku's 88 Scenic Views 🔗
Money-Saving Options:
- Jakoten/Jako-katsu: 50 yen per piece at Doya Market 🔗
- Doya Shokudo: Fresh seafood meals around 1,000 yen 🔗
- Free parking for facility users 🔗
- Free observation deck access
Local Etiquette:
- Doya Market: Arrive early (8:00-10:00 AM) for best selection
- Cash preparation: Ferry onboard purchases require cash; ATMs available at terminal
- Traffic courtesy: Route 378 is mostly single lane - use pullouts to allow faster vehicles to pass
Food & Dining Tips:
- Kaisen-don at Doya Shokudo (10:00 AM - 2:00 PM only)
- Jakoten and jako-katsu from Doya Market vendors
- Fresh mikan juice at Agora Marche
- Yawatahama Champon - distinct local noodle dish 🔗
Driving to Matsuyama:
- Distance: 40 miles (64 km)
- Drive time: 50-60 minutes (allow extra on Culture Day)
- Road condition: Generally smooth 5-6 meter wide pavement 🔗
- Scenic highlights: Coastal views, especially Shimonada Station to Nagahama Bridge section 🔗
- Driving notes: Watch for tight curves and potential sea spray; sunset glare can be strong 🔗
Location: View on Google Maps
Source: attractions/beppu-to-osaka-ferry-route/yawatahama-port-ferry-terminal.md