Botchan Train
坊っちゃん列車
A tourist train replicating a Meiji-era steam tram, named after Natsume Soseki's novel Botchan and often displayed at Dogo Onsen Station.
The Botchan Train is a diesel-powered replica of a Meiji-period light railway locomotive, built by Iyotetsu. Its appearance matches the 'matchbox-like train' in the novel. It once ran between Dogo Onsen, Matsuyama-shi Station and Furumachi, and at the terminus a staff member turned the locomotive around by hand.
It was suspended for a long time in recent years due to staff shortages. For whether it is running again, and for timetables and fares, check the Iyotetsu website before you go.
Even when it isn't running, you can see the display vehicle at Dogo Onsen Station and ride the regular city tram (about 200 yen one way).
Opening hours
Check Iyotetsu's announcements
Nearby sights
- Dogo Haikara-dori & Botchan Karakuri Clock
- Dogo Onsen Asuka-no-Yu
- Dogo Onsen Honkan
- Shiki Memorial Museum
- Dogo Park & Yuzuki Castle Ruins
- Isaniwa Shrine
- Ishite-ji
- Saka no Ue no Kumo Museum