Ainan, in the southern-most part of Ehime, has a population of around 23,000. Some years ago, five towns (Uchiumi, Misho, Johen, Nishiumi, and Ipponmatsu) were joined together and are now known as Ainan. The area is famous for katsuo (bonito), pearls and mikan. Ainan has many good hikes and great spots to swim, snorkel, kayak, fish, or windsurf, as well as a mud soccer tournament in September!
Kihoku is east of Uwajima, and north of Matsuno. It is another area that is actually a large collection of separate townships. The population is about 11,600. Kihoku’s local products are pheasant, yuzu, shiitake and rice.
The sleepy town of Matsuno-cho lies south of Kihoku. It is famous primarily for its beautiful Nametoko Gorge and its nature.
Uwajima is one of the larger cities in southern Ehime with a population of about 86,000. It is surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Uwakai sea and Onigajou mountain. Uwajima is famous for its fishing industry, pearls, mikans, Bull-fighting, sex shrine, and the annual Gaiya Festival in July.