The past is always present in Matsuyama. While surrounded by a modern, pulsating city, reminders of its medieval origins stand as testaments to its rich history. Spend the day exploring its roots beginning with a visit to Matsuyama Castle. Located atop 433-foot-tall Mt. Katsuyama, the 17th century castle was once the power seat for the Matsudaira Clan, who ruled this area during the Edo period. Enclosed by four gates and stone walls, the donjon is an Important Cultural Property. After arriving by cable car, you'll need to take off your shoes before stepping inside and viewing displays of swords, armor and other items that belonged to the Matsudaira family. Next, we will visit the Dogo Onsen hot spring, Japan's oldest hot spring resort, and the Shiki Memorial Museum, which is located nearby, before having lunch at a local restaurant. In the afternoon, we will visit the Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum, which is based on Ryotaro Shiba's novel "Saka no Ue no Kumo" (Clouds Over the Hill), and the reconstructed birthplace of the Akiyama brothers, the main characters of the novel alongside Shiki Masaoka, before returning to the ship.