English Haiku Experience at Matsuyama Castle

About this experience

Known as the “Haiku Capital,” Matsuyama is the birthplace of Masaoka Shiki, who redefined haiku as a form of modern literature, laid the foundations of contemporary haiku, and gave it the name “haiku.” The city is also the cradle of haiku innovation. It is home to many sites associated with renowned poets, including the hermitage where Santōka Taneda spent his final years, making Matsuyama truly the spiritual home of haiku. In Matsuyama, haiku is deeply woven into everyday life and urban culture and is actively shared both within Japan and internationally, making the city a uniquely important source of modern haiku culture. Drawing inspiration from seasonal landscapes and historic settings, participants compose, share, and receive commentary on English-language haiku. Guided by an English haiku instructor, the program is designed to engage all five senses, allowing participants to experience both the depth of haiku and the rich charm of Matsuyama.

What to expect

Participants take part in a gin-kō (haiku walk) at Matsuyama Castle, one of Japan’s twelve original surviving castle keeps. Drawing inspiration from seasonal landscapes and historic settings, they compose English-language haiku, share their poems, and receive commentary from the instructor, all under the guidance of an English haiku instructor. The experience is casual yet authentic, offering meaningful engagement with haiku. Opportunities to experience English-language haiku in this way are rare worldwide, making this a truly unique and valuable experience. Note: This tour is designed for enjoying the creation of English-language haiku. The tour is conducted in both English and Japanese. English Haiku Experience at Matsuyama Castle 12:50 Meet (Conference Room, 2nd Floor, Matsuyama Castle Ropeway Station) 13:00–14:00 Lecture “English Haiku and the Spirit of Matsuyama” (Matsuyama Castle Ropeway Conference Room) 14:10–15:20 Haiku Walk (Gin-kō) Matsuyama Castle Ropeway & Lift and Matsuyama Castle Keep 15:30–17:10 Haiku Workshop (Kukai) Haiku composition, sharing, and instructor commentary (Matsuyama Castle Ropeway Conference Room) 17:15 Program concludes / Dismissal

Tour & ticket options

Options may have different inclusions and meeting points. Choose your option when booking on Viator.

Meeting & pickup

• 12:50 Meet at the conference room on the 2nd floor of the Matsuyama Castle Ropeway Station

End point

• 12:50 Meet at the conference room on the 2nd floor of the Matsuyama Castle Ropeway Station

Before you go

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
• Participants aged 13 and under are not permitted to participate.
• Participants who are unable to read, write, or communicate in English are not permitted to participate.
• Infants and children may not participate, nor may they accompany participants.
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Cancellation policy

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.