Mt. Ishizuchi

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Highlights

Visit Izhizuchi Shrine Chugu Jojusha halfway up the mountain, and Ishizuchi Shrine Chojosha at the summit to learn about the history of Shugendo mountain worship. The Ishizuchi ropeway takes hikers halfway up the mountain. Further up, some chain sections are steep and maybe slippery in wet conditions, but detours are available. Chojo Sanso lodge near the summit offers accommodations, a restaurant, and a shop. Rest areas and toilets on the mountain require a fee or coupon to pay for maintenance.

Mt. Ishizuchi has been considered one of the country's most sacred mountains since the 7th century. Vestiges of Shugendo ascetic training remain along the route, including chains on steep sections. The best season for mountain climbing is from late May to late October when the snow has completely melted. Hike through forests of beech and oak, and spot fauna including falcons and dormice. From the summit, you can see the Seto Inland Sea and the Pacific Ocean.

In addition to hiking, you can enjoy a variety of activities throughout the year, such as cycling, and stargazing, as well as skiing and snowshoeing in winter. Hot spring inns at Mt. Ishizuchi Onsen at the foot of the mountain, are popular for a relaxing soak after climbing the mountain. A little further away, the city of Matsuyama near the coast has popular spots including Matsuyama Castle and Dogo Onsen.

At 1,982 meters, Mt. Ishizuchi is the highest mountain on the island of Shikoku, and in western Japan as a whole. This sacred peak in Ehime Prefecture is a location for the practice of mountain worship, and chains used for ascetic practices can still be seen on its challenging Tsuchikoya Route. The Omotesando Route, which utilizes a ropeway and lift, is recommended for beginners. There are shrines dotted around the mountain, and the summit offers unparalleled views of the Seto Inland Sea. After hiking head to Ehime's capital, Matsuyama, and relax with a soak at the historic Dogo Onsen.

Detail

Duration 1day / 6hours
Highest Point 1982m
Elevation Gain 698m
Horizontal Distance 12.2km

* Duration is an estimate and may vary depending on route and pace.

Reference: Round Trip starting from the Joju (Johju) Ropeway Station

Access

From JR Matsuyama Station, take the Limited Express train for about an hour to JR Iyo-Saijo Station. From there, it takes about an hour by bus to the Ishizuchi Ropeway.