Mount Ishizuchi
石鎚山
The highest peak in western Japan at 1,982 m, one of Japan's seven sacred mountains, where climbing the iron chains to the summit follows the Shugendō tradition.
Mount Ishizuchi is a sacred mountain of mountain faith. Hikers usually ride the Ishizuchi cable car from the Saijō side to about 1,300 m, then walk about 3 hours to the Upper Shrine of Ishizuchi Shrine on the summit of Mount Iya. The highest point, Tengudake, requires a further stretch along a precarious ridge.
Along the way are iron chain sections such as the 'Test Chain' and the 'First Chain', and you can take a bypass alongside them. Autumn foliage is beautiful.
It is about 1.5 hours' drive from Matsuyama, or you can take JR to Iyo-Saijō and transfer to a bus. In winter, snow requires professional equipment.
Opening hours
Cable car approx. 08:00–17:00 (varies by season)
Nearby sights
- Tobe Pottery Village
- Ishite-ji
- Isaniwa Shrine
- Shiki Memorial Museum
- Dogo Park & Yuzuki Castle Ruins
- Dogo Onsen Honkan
- Dogo Haikara-dori & Botchan Karakuri Clock
- Botchan Train