Matsuyama City is a former castle town and has long been known as a hot spring resort. Matsuyama also has strong ties to figures such as Masaoka Shiki and Taneda Santoka, and is famous as a city of haiku and literature. Many cultural facilities have been built in the city under the compact city concept. Tourism is an essential industry for the city. Home to nationally renowned tourist destinations such as Dogo Onsen and Matsuyama Castle, and blessed with other tourist attractions, the city attracts many tourists. Apart from this, agriculture and industry are also thriving. The agricultural sector boasts many brand-name varieties, including the Beni Madan and Matsuyama Naganasu eggplants.