Ishizuchi-jinja

Ishizuchi Shrine in Saijo, Ehime Prefecture, is the spiritual anchor of Mount Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan at 1,982 meters. The shrine complex actually spans several locations from the base to the summit, with the Honsha at the foot of the mountain serving as the main worship hall. Pilgrims and hikers have been making the ascent for over 1,300 years, using iron chains bolted into the rock face to scale the steepest sections. The July 1st summer opening festival draws thousands of white-clad worshippers, but visiting during autumn rewards you with spectacular foliage across the mountainside. Even if you skip the climb, the lower shrine grounds are peaceful and largely overlooked by tourists passing through Shikoku.