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Temple · Matsuyama, Ehime
Ishite-ji Temple
Temple 51 of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, near Dogo Onsen, with a 14th-century Niomon gate, a National Treasure, a three-story pagoda and a dark cave behind the courtyard.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
A look at the place
Ishite-ji Temple in pictures
These pictures are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs. They may differ from the place.
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About Ishite-ji Temple
Ishite-ji is temple 51 on the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage, the roughly 1,200 km circular route that follows the steps of the monk Kukai. It is about 1.5 km from Dogo Onsen, in eastern Matsuyama, and is one of the most visited temples on the route.
The name, “temple of the stone hand,” comes from a legend: a baby was said to have been born with a stone in its hand, bearing the name of a man who was searching for Kukai, and the stone was kept at the temple. Entrance is through a covered shopping arcade and the Niomon gate, dated 1318, with two wooden guardians, designated a National Treasure. Several other buildings, such as the main hall and the three-story pagoda, are Important Cultural Properties.
The courtyard is full of details: stone statues, giant straw sandals hung on the gate, offerings from pilgrims and incense. Behind the courtyard, a dark tunnel of about 160 meters, the Mantra Cave, passes through the hill, with small statues and dim lights, and exits into an area with more statues and a large Buddha on the slope.
The temple often has pilgrims in white clothing, straw hats and carrying a staff, who chant sutras in front of the halls and get their pilgrimage books stamped. A visit pairs naturally with Dogo Onsen, about a 20-minute walk away.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
About 45 minutes to 1 hour, including the cave.
Best time
In the morning, with pilgrims and fewer tourists; late afternoon, before bathing at Dogo. Bring a flashlight or use your phone light in the cave.
How to get there
About a 20-minute walk from Dogo Onsen or a few minutes by bus. From central Matsuyama, Iyotetsu buses stop at the temple entrance.
Tip
Go through the cave behind the courtyard, which few visitors do, and follow the path to the large Buddha on the slope. Respect pilgrims in front of the halls; do not pass in front of them during prayers.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Ishite-ji Temple
What is the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage?
It is a route of about 1,200 km that passes 88 temples associated with the monk Kukai, across Shikoku’s four prefectures. It can be done on foot, by car, by bus or in sections.
Can you enter the Ishite-ji cave?
Yes, the roughly 160-meter tunnel behind the courtyard is open to visitors. It is dark, with dim lighting and uneven ground.
Is Ishite-ji far from Dogo Onsen?
No, about 1.5 km, roughly a 20-minute walk or a few minutes by bus.
Can tourists visit pilgrimage temples?
Yes. The temples are open to everyone. Wash your hands at the entrance fountain, be discreet with photos and avoid passing in front of someone who is praying.
Beyond the guide
