Isaniwa Shrine

Isaniwa Shrine sits at the top of 135 stone steps above Matsuyama's Dogo Onsen district, its vivid red lacquer and gold leaf making it one of only three shrines in Japan built in the Hachiman-zukuri architectural style. The climb is straightforward and rewarded with views across the city's rooftops and the onsen district below. The main hall is richly decorated with intricate wooden carvings of mythological scenes. The shrine dates to the 14th century, and its bold colors and theatrical appearance contrast sharply with the quieter earth tones of most Shikoku temples. Dogo Onsen Honkan sits right at the foot of the steps.