Mt. Ishizuchi, meaning "stone hammer," stands as the highest mountain in Western Japan, reaching over 1900 meters above sea level. It is revered as one of Japan's holy mountains and offers an unparalleled hiking experience, drawing adventurers with its challenging trails and panoramic vistas. The mountain is particularly famous for its unique chain sections, which provide an exhilarating test of skill and courage.
Visitors consistently rave about the spectacular views from the summit, which encompass the Seto Inland Sea, the Pacific Ocean, and the vast mountain ranges of Shikoku. Many describe the thrilling rocky mountain trail from Mt. Misen to Mt. Tengu as amazing, and the four long chain sections, while challenging, are often highlighted as a unique and rewarding part of the experience. Reviewers with fair fitness levels typically complete the hike to the summit and back in 5-6 hours, including the ropeway ride. However, some warn that the hike is not super-easy, even with the ropeway, due to steep sections and poorly maintained trails in parts.
For a comfortable experience, it's advisable to start early, especially if you plan to use the ropeway, as the last car down is typically around 5 PM. Bringing plenty of water, snacks, and appropriate hiking gear, including sturdy shoes and gloves for the chains, is highly recommended. While some hikers choose to bypass the chain sections via longer routes, many find the chains to be a highlight. Be prepared for steep ascents and descents; some parts of the trail, particularly after the temple, involve irregularly sized, oddly pitched stairs. Consider staying overnight in a shelter near the peak if you plan a more extensive climb or want to enjoy the sunrise/sunset.
To reach Mt. Ishizuchi, you can take a bus from Matsuyama directly to one of the paths, or take a train to Saijo and then a bus from there. If driving, there are parking options near the ropeway station. One parking lot costs 500¥ and is only 50 meters from the walk-up to the Ropeway Station, while another directly opposite costs 700¥. The ropeway itself departs every 20 minutes, with a short ride of about 6-8 minutes each way. Be mindful of the ropeway's operating hours, especially the last descent.
A common complaint among some hikers is the discrepancy between advertised trail distances and actual hiking distances, with some maps understating the true length. Reviewers also mention that some parts of the trail, particularly after the temple, can be poorly maintained with uneven stairs. To mitigate this, allocate more time than you anticipate, wear robust hiking boots, and be prepared for a longer and more strenuous trek than initially expected. If you're not a hardcore hiker, using the cable car for a significant portion of the ascent is highly recommended to conserve energy for the more challenging summit sections.