Ishiteji Temple

The 51st stop on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, Ishiteji sits a 20-minute walk from Dogo Onsen and is Matsuyama's most visited temple. Its Niomon gate is a National Treasure, and the temple's name, meaning Temple of the Stone Hand, references the legend of Emon Saburo and Kobo Daishi. What makes Ishiteji distinct is its cave system, where a tunnel leads through dimly lit passages filled with stone carvings and Buddhist statuary to a secondary complex on the hillside. The main grounds also include a three-storied pagoda and an approach lined with small shops and restaurants.