Mount Ishizuchi, rising to 1,982 metres, is the highest mountain in western Japan and one of the country’s seven great sacred peaks, revered for centuries as a place of mountain worship and ascetic training. Reaching the summit is a genuine mountain hike, made famous — and thrilling — by its kusari, heavy iron chains bolted to sheer rock faces that climbers haul themselves up, testing nerve and strength (bypass trails exist for those who prefer). A ropeway carries you much of the way up, from where trails lead through forest to the dramatic summit ridge, spectacular in the blazing reds of autumn. Physically demanding but deeply rewarding, Ishizuchi offers some of the finest mountain scenery in Shikoku.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Ishizuchi, Ehime |
| Hours | Daylight hike; ropeway hours |
| Admission | Ropeway fare; trails free |
| Time needed | Half to full day |
| Best time | Autumn colour; summer hiking (Jul–Oct) |
What to See & Do
- The highest peak in western Japan (1,982 m).
- Thrilling kusari chain climbs up sheer rock.
- A ropeway and forest trails to the summit ridge.
- Blazing red autumn colour on the slopes.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Shikoku Karst plateau.
- Pair with Saijo sake at the mountain’s foot.
- Read our Ehime overview .
Getting There
- By ropeway: from the base near Saijo, then hike to the summit.
- By car: to the ropeway base or the Tsuchigoya trailhead.
Tips
Take the ropeway to save time and energy, then allow several hours for the round-trip hike to the summit in proper hiking shoes. The chains are optional and genuinely challenging — use the bypass trails if you have any doubt — and come in autumn for the famous colour or summer for milder hiking, checking weather and trail conditions before you set out.
