Best Matsuyama, Ehime Souvenirs: Top 5 Authentic Japanese Gifts & Local Specialties

Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture, boasts attractions like Dogo Onsen and the Botchan Train, making it a popular destination for Japan travel. However, choosing souvenirs can be tricky! This travel guide presents a curated selection of Matsuyama gifts, perfect for various tastes – from sake lovers and health-conscious individuals to those seeking thoughtful presents. These must-buy items are sure to delight everyone, from young travelers to senior citizens.

Matsuyama Sake: Exquisite Japanese Rice Wine and Shochu

Blessed with pristine water and abundant nature, Matsuyama excels in sake brewing. Here are two recommended local specialties for sake enthusiasts:

Yagi Shuzobu, Yamadan Masamune Junmai Daiginjo

This luxurious Junmai Daiginjo sake is crafted from 50% polished Ehime-grown "Matsuyama Mitsui" rice. Its crisp, refreshing taste and elegant ginjo aroma are hallmarks. A platinum award winner at the London Sake Challenge 2019, it pairs perfectly with both Japanese and Western cuisine. A perfect gift for someone special or a treat for yourself.

Mizuguchi Shuzo, Dogo Shochu Matsuyama Naganasu

Produced by a gold award-winning sake brewery at the National New Sake Appraisal, this shochu uses Matsuyama's signature "Matsuyama Naganasu" eggplant. The fruity aroma reminiscent of sake, combined with the subtle eggplant fragrance, creates a delightful balance. Its clean finish and easy drinkability are characteristic. The refreshing taste evokes the hot springs of Dogo Onsen and the sea breeze of the Seto Inland Sea, adding a special touch to your Matsuyama travel memories.

Dogo Shochu Matsuyama Issun Somamame

This shochu features Matsuyama's renowned "Matsuyama Issun Somamame" (small broad beans). Made with sake lees from a nationally gold award-winning sake, it offers a fruity sake-like aroma blended harmoniously with the gentle fragrance of broad beans. The refreshing taste is crisp and clean, with a lingering hint of the beans' sweetness. It pairs wonderfully with light dishes.

Matsuyama Tea: Organic Black Tea from Abundant Nature

Kogoshima's Kirishima region, nestled amidst the majestic Kirishima mountain range, is home to "Kirishima-cha Organic Black Tea No. 7," made with 100% organic Beni-fuuki tea leaves. It boasts a rich aroma and smooth, mellow flavor. The 60g x 3 pack gift set is perfect for gifts or personal enjoyment.

Matsuyama Gourmet: Black Garlic Paste – A Health-Conscious Choice

Matsuyama Herb Farm's black garlic paste is made from carefully selected garlic cultivated in Hachimantai, Aomori Prefecture. Grown in fertile soil and watered with pristine underground water from 400 meters below the surface, it’s rich in flavor. This safe and natural product uses minimal pesticides and chemical fertilizers. The large 500g size is versatile for various culinary uses.

Matsuyama Souvenirs for Everyone

These souvenirs are ideal gifts for family, friends, colleagues, or as a personal reward. Appealing to all ages, they make perfect mementos of your Matsuyama trip.

Summary

When choosing souvenirs in Matsuyama, Ehime, consider these carefully selected sake, shochu, tea, and black garlic paste. Share the unique flavors reflecting Matsuyama's rich nature and traditions with your loved ones for a truly memorable experience.