• Matsuyama Castle Ropeway and Lift Foothill Station「Shinonome-guchi」 - Participants take part in a gin-kō (haiku walk) at Issō-an, the hermitage where Santōka Taneda spent his final years, and at the scenic Kōshin-an. Drawing inspiration from the surrounding landscapes and historic settings, participants 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 a genuine introduction to 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.

English Haiku Experience at Kōshin-an & Issō-an

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

13:00–13:40 Lecture
“English Haiku and the Spirit of Matsuyama”
(Conference Room)

13:50–15:40 Haiku Walk (Gin-kō)
Kōshin-an and Issō-an

15:45–17:15 Haiku Workshop (Kukai)
Haiku composition, sharing, and instructor commentary
(Conference Room)

17:15 Program concludes / Dismissal

• Private transportation
• English haiku lecture and workshop fee
• Navigator fee (English & Japanese support)
• Venue, equipment, and materials costs for the lecture and haiku workshop

• Other personal expenses

Matsuyama, often referred to as the “Haiku Capital,” is the birthplace of Masaoka Shiki, who transformed haiku into a modern literary form, established the foundations of contemporary haiku, and coined the term “haiku.” The city is a hub of haiku innovation, hosting numerous sites linked to famous poets, including the retreat where Santōka Taneda spent his last years, making Matsuyama the true spiritual center of haiku.

In Matsuyama, haiku is intricately integrated into daily life and urban culture, and it is actively shared both within Japan and globally, establishing the city as a uniquely significant source of modern haiku culture.

Inspired by seasonal landscapes and historical settings, participants create, share, and receive feedback on English-language haiku. Led by an English haiku instructor, the program is crafted to engage all five senses, enabling participants to appreciate both the profound nature of haiku and the captivating allure of Matsuyama.

• 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.

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