This Japan prefecture is a lesser known oasis of relaxation and impeccable cuisine
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If you've already embarked on the Golden Route, also known as the old Tōkaidō road from Tokyo to Kyoto, you might want to consider exploring Ehime the next time you visit Japan.
While less bustling than its counterparts, the prefecture, which literally means "lovely princess" in Japanese, is rich with history, culture, and the traditional spirit of hospitality. Plus, its warm and mild climate makes it a breeze to travel anytime of the year.
Here are seven ways to discover this up and coming gem:
5. Get up close with animals and marine life
Adults and children alike will enjoy family-friendly attractions like te Ehime Prefectural Tobe Zoo, which houses approximately 900 animals of 180 species on its 11 hectares site.
Explore natural geographical features such as gentle slopes flanked by lush greenery, as you view animals like lions, giraffes and zebras. Be sure to say hi to a polar bear named Peach, who is also the first artificially-fed polar bear in Japan.
Lovers of marine life ought to visit the Uwakai Marine Park, where one can enjoy rides on glass bottom boats and be enchanted by colourful tropical fish swimming among coral reefs.
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