Ishiteji Temple

Ishiteji (石手寺), Matsuyama’s most famous temple, is an essential stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, ranked 51st among the 88 temples. Pilgrims dressed in traditional white attire are a common sight as they make their way to this expansive temple complex, which has been a spiritual destination for centuries. The temple’s name, "Stone Hand Temple," comes from a captivating legend about an aristocrat who was reborn still clutching a stone in his hand. Visitors are greeted by a beautifully preserved approach, lined with traditional wooden shopfronts, leading them to the sacred grounds. There, they can admire the peaceful surroundings, including a majestic three-story pagoda, various halls, and numerous statues that enhance the temple’s serene atmosphere.

Ishiteji is home to the Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure, as well as several Kamakura-period structures, including the main hall and pagoda, each steeped in history. One of the temple’s most intriguing features is its mysterious cave, a 200-meter-long passage filled with Buddhist statues and intricate carvings. This cave leads to an inner temple with a striking golden dome. Inside, visitors encounter unique sculptures, including a skeletal image of the Buddha before his enlightenment, providing a deeply thought-provoking experience. Overlooking the temple, a towering statue of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, stands as a powerful symbol of the temple’s spiritual significance.