A Sacred Mt. Ishizuchi, the Highest in Western Japan
Mt. Ishizuchi is one of Japan's seven sacred peaks. Named "the Stone Hammer" for its characteristic sharp and rocky summit, it is the highest peak on the island of Shikoku and is known not only for its beauty but also for the challenge it presents climbers. But after a tough hike up this rugged mountain, you have a chance to relax and enjoy a rare kind of peace and tranquility at its peak.
The mountain is an important object of worship in this region and one of the major centres of Shugendo, a sect mixing Shintoism and Buddhism. Various shrines can be found on the mountain. The mountain is also sacred to the fishermen of the Seto Inland Sea who use its peak as a landmark. Many boats fly a pennant showing the first kanji of the mountain’s name as a mark of respect.
There are several sets of heavy chains leading up the cliffs to the summit to assist those who wish to climb, although there’s an alternate walking route. Embark on this journey to discover the 1300-year-long history of this worshiped mountain. Take a chance to escape the whir of the city and popular tourist routes to immerse yourself in a place where the unchanged Japanese animism faith is deeply rooted.
The mountain is an important object of worship in this region and one of the major centres of Shugendo, a sect mixing Shintoism and Buddhism. Various shrines can be found on the mountain. The mountain is also sacred to the fishermen of the Seto Inland Sea who use its peak as a landmark. Many boats fly a pennant showing the first kanji of the mountain’s name as a mark of respect.
There are several sets of heavy chains leading up the cliffs to the summit to assist those who wish to climb, although there’s an alternate walking route. Embark on this journey to discover the 1300-year-long history of this worshiped mountain. Take a chance to escape the whir of the city and popular tourist routes to immerse yourself in a place where the unchanged Japanese animism faith is deeply rooted.
