Like something straight out of a film -- perhaps Spirited Away -- Shimonada Station is a small stop in Ehime that overlooks the bright blue sea. Despite there not being much to do, apart from visiting the station, it still attracts many visitors from Japan and abroad. After taking a photo on the bench overlooking the sea, you can sit inside the small station, buy some train-themed souvenirs, or visit the coffee van outside for a good brew. The area is beautiful throughout the day, but sunset is the most popular time to visit -- you might even catch a rare purple sunset. Be sure to plan ahead, though, as the train service to and from Matsuyama Station is irregular. How to get there To reach Shimonada Station from Matsuyama Station, take the JR Yosan Line for just under an hour. While the trip may seem long just to visit one station, the journey itself is part of the experience -- you'll pass lush greenery before being greeted by the sight of the blue sea. A one-way ticket costs . Be sure to check the schedule in advance, as this local train stops only once every hour or even every two hours.
The ultimate guide to Japan travel
The ultimate guide to Japan travel
The ultimate guide to Japan travel