TOC
Overview (history, characteristics, attractions)
Mount Ishizuchi, located in Saijo City, Ehime Prefecture, is 1,982 meters above sea level and known as the highest peak in Shikoku. It has long been revered as a place of mountain worship, and is a spot with a deep history of Shugendo (mountain asceticism) and mountain worship centered around Ishizuchi Shrine. Characterized by steep granite ridges, rocky areas, and a varied ridgeline, you can enjoy the natural beauty of the seasons, including mountain climbing, chain climbing, autumn leaves, and seas of clouds.
Highlights
- Spectacular view from the summit: On clear days, you can enjoy a magnificent panorama of the Seto Inland Sea and the Shikoku Mountains, and the sunrises and sunsets are also beautiful.
- Chain sections: There are chain sections called Ichino Kusari, Nino Kusari, and Sanno Kusari, which offer a sense of courage and thrill (a challenge suited to physical strength and experience is required).
- Ishizuchi Shrine (Jojusha): A center of mountain worship. You can receive a goshuin (stamp) at the shrine office or worship there.
- Alpine plants and autumn leaves: The alpine plants from spring to summer and the autumn leaves are spectacular. The scenery changes dramatically with each season.
- Mountain huts and sacred atmosphere: Shrines and mountain huts are scattered across the mountain, giving you a sense of the ancient religious culture.
Access (nearest station, transportation, etc.)
The main ways to get there are by public transport and by car.
- public transport:
- Nearest train station: JR Yosan Line's Iyo-Saijo Station is convenient.
- Bus from Iyo-Saijo Station: There is a local bus service from Saijo Station to the trailhead and the ropeway station (bound for Nishinokawa). It takes about 40 to 60 minutes by bus (it is recommended to check in advance as there are limited buses).
- Ropeway: The Ishizuchi Mountain Ropeway will take you straight up to Joju Station on the mountain. Be sure to check the ropeway's operating hours and seasonal schedule.
- car:
- From Matsuyama, it takes about 1-2 hours via national and prefectural roads (varies depending on route and traffic conditions).
- Parking is available around the trailhead and at the ropeway station (limited space available, and may be full during peak seasons).
- Note: There are also hiking routes from the Omogo and Tsuchigoya areas, and access by car is possible. Public transportation is infrequent, so please check the timetable in advance.
Estimated stay (estimated time required)
- Ropeway + light hiking from Jojusha to the summit: half a day to a full day (total trip takes about 3 to 5 hours)
- Full-scale climbing from the Tsuchigoya Route or Omogoga Route (round trip): 1 day (approximately 6-8 hours round trip), varies greatly depending on stamina and the route.
- Traverse including mountain hut accommodation: 2 days or more (if you wish to summit early in the morning or take a leisurely route)
Nearby spots
- Ishizuchi Shrine (Jojusha): Recommended for visiting before or after mountain climbing.
- Omogokei: A scenic spot in the valley where you can enjoy hiking and viewing the autumn leaves.
- Shikoku Karst (Tengu Plateau, etc.): The magnificent scenery of the plateau is perfect for a drive.
- Saijo city: Enjoy the famous water source "Uchinuki," the traditional "Saijo Festival," local hot springs, and gourmet food.
- Matsuyama (Dogo Onsen): Approximately 1-1.5 hours by car. Easy to combine with sightseeing.
Things to be aware of (crowds, manners, seasonal precautions, etc.)
- Safety measures: The chain sections are slippery and extremely dangerous in rainy or icy weather. Be sure to bring gloves and non-slip hiking boots, and have the judgment to turn back without pushing yourself too hard.
- Weather changes: Due to the high altitude, the weather can change suddenly. Be sure to bring warm clothing and rain gear, and be careful of strong winds and thunder.
- Winter dangers: There is snow and ice in winter, so winter mountaineering equipment such as crampons and ice axes and experience are required. Beginners should avoid this trail, or consider going with a guide.
- Crowds: The hiking trails and ropeway are crowded during Golden Week, autumn foliage season, and weekends. Parking lots may be full or buses may not be added, so be sure to arrive early or make a reservation.
- Manners and religious beliefs: Mt. Ishizuchi is a sacred mountain, so please be considerate of worshippers and be courteous on the hiking trails. Always take your trash home with you.
- Mobile phones and rescue: In some areas, there may be no mobile phone reception. To prevent getting lost, please submit a hiking plan, travel with multiple people, and prepare a headlamp, food, and water.
- Check facility information: Information on ropeway operation status, trail closures, and mountain hut opening hours changes depending on the season and weather, so be sure to check official information before setting off.
