Mount Tsurugi (Tsurugisan)

Mount Tsurugi (剣山, Tsurugisan, 1,955 meters) is the second-highest peak on Shikoku Island and one of the standout attractions of the remote Iya Valley. Revered as one of Japan’s “100 Famous Mountains,” it holds deep spiritual significance as a sacred site of Shugendō, an ancient tradition of mountain asceticism and worship. Despite its name—“Sword Mountain”—the ascent is surprisingly accessible. A scenic chairlift carries visitors most of the way to the top, leaving only a 30- to 45-minute hike to reach the summit. Along the final stretch, hikers encounter a mountaintop shrine, weather stations, mountain huts, and well-maintained boardwalks offering sweeping, 360-degree views of the surrounding peaks and valleys.

For those seeking a more immersive experience, a two-hour hike from Mi no Koshi, near the lower chairlift station, provides a rewarding climb through lush alpine terrain. Another tranquil route begins near Otsurugi Shrine, offering a slightly longer journey with fewer crowds and a more meditative atmosphere. Whether you take the leisurely lift-assisted path or opt for a full mountain trek, Mount Tsurugi rewards visitors with its dramatic scenery, serene beauty, and rich spiritual legacy—making it an unmissable destination for hikers, nature lovers, and those drawn to Japan’s sacred mountains.