Ishite-ji Temple Cave Tunnel

石手寺洞窟トンネル

4.1Est. 90FreeMatsuyama, Shikoku

Local Pick

Overview

A wild, psychedelic cave tunnel behind an ancient pilgrimage temple filled with folk statues and mysterious carvings.

Temple #51 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage is famous, but few visitors explore the 200m tunnel behind the main hall. The dark passage is packed with folk Buddhist statues, mandalas, and increasingly surreal carvings. It emerges on a hilltop with views over Matsuyama. The whole experience feels like entering another dimension.

Local tips

Bring a flashlight. Parts of the tunnel are very dark. The folk statues get stranger the deeper you go. Exit on the hilltop for city views.

Practical info

Japanese name: 石手寺洞窟トンネル
Nearest station: Dogo Onsen Station (Iyotetsu Railway)
Payment: Cash only

Loading details...

Want to visit Ishite-ji Temple Cave Tunnel?

Build a trip to Matsuyama