Hello! I’m SacChi, a blogger sharing authentic travel experiences.
This time, I embarked on an autumn foliage hiking adventure to Mt. Ishizuchi (石鎚山)—Western Japan’s highest peak—just 2.5 hours from Kochi City. Let me take you through this memorable journey with all the atmosphere and emotions I experienced 🍁
🏔 What is Mt. Ishizuchi? One of Japan’s 100 Famous Mountains
Known as the “Roof of Shikoku,” Mt. Ishizuchi stands at 1,982m elevation, straddling the border between Saijo City and Kumakogen Town in Ehime Prefecture. It’s one of Western Japan’s tallest mountains.
What makes it special:
- Sacred mountain with centuries of spiritual history
- Famous for “Kusariba” (chain sections) that challenge climbers
- Year-round beauty: spring greenery, autumn colors, winter rime ice
🥾 Two Popular Routes for Beginners
① Tsuchigoya Route (Kumakogen side) – Today’s choice!
- Trailhead: Tsuchigoya (elevation ~1,500m)
- Time required: Ascent ~2h 15min / Descent ~1h 35min
- Distance: Approx. 4.6km
- Chain sections: No. 2 Chain (65m), No. 3 Chain (68m) – both have bypass routes
- Access: Car via Ishizuchi Skyline
② Jojusha Route (Saijo side)
- Trailhead: Ropeway Summit Station (elevation ~1,300m)
- Time required: Approx. 3 hours
- Chain sections: Trial Chain + Nos. 1-3 Chains (all with bypass options)
- Access: Ishizuchi Ropeway + Tourist Lift gain elevation quickly
- Best for: Those seeking authentic pilgrimage atmosphere
🏞 Hiking Report: Tsuchigoya Route Experience
1) Starting from Tsuchigoya Trailhead (1,492m elevation, 10:10)
Arriving at Tsuchigoya’s second parking lot around 9:30 AM, I found the closer lots already full—peak autumn foliage season in action!
Despite the sunny forecast, thick fog enveloped the trailhead. Worried I might miss the autumn colors, I paid respects at Ishizuchi Shrine Tsuchigoya Worship Hall and began my ascent.
The well-maintained trail started with gentle climbs and descents. Strong winds pushed fast-moving clouds overhead, occasionally revealing shafts of sunlight. I found solace in the trailside plants, mushrooms, and birds as I maintained a relaxed pace.
Note: Part 2 will feature the fascinating plants I encountered!
2) Reaching the Torii Gate at No. 2 Chain Base (1,786m, 12:10)
About half the trail features wooden boardwalks, but many sections are slippery—hiking boots are essential. Taking photos along the way, I reached the torii gate at 12:10. Just above sits the No. 2 Chain Shelter with the last public restroom (important to note!).
From here, the climb intensified. My breathing grew labored and oxygen felt scarce, but I pressed on slowly. Marveling at the steep stairs carved into the mountainside—”How did they even build this?”—I found encouragement in glimpses of autumn foliage through the clouds.
Finally, Mt. Ishizuchi’s famous final chain section appeared, but I chose the bypass route for safety first.
3) Summit Victory at Misen Peak! (1,982m, 12:50)
I finally reached Misen (弥山) summit!
After paying respects at Ishizuchi Shrine, I faced fierce winds and dense fog with near-zero visibility. Still, when the clouds parted briefly, the revealed mountain ridgelines literally took my breath away.
Settling down at the summit, I boiled water for instant ramen—the ultimate mountain meal. Despite shivering in the cold wind, the hot steam and savory broth warmed me from within.
When the fog cleared momentarily, I grabbed my camera and captured the rocky peak of Tengu-dake emerging from the mist. A shamisen-like sound drifted from somewhere… It was a truly mystical moment.
4) Descent & Relaxing at Tsuchigoya Terrace (13:40-15:20)
Starting descent at 13:40, I noticed flowers and Kamegamori views I’d missed on the way up. The journey down went smoothly.
Reaching the trailhead at 15:30, I headed to the attached Tsuchigoya Terrace—a facility with café, shop, and Montbell corner offering limited goods and souvenirs.
I treated myself to their signature “Ishizuchi Soft Serve.” The ice cream topped with crispy rice flour had a gentle sweetness that soothed my exhausted body. Since they were out of cookies, the staff kindly substituted with kawara senbei crackers—a special touch!
🗺️ Access & Trailhead Information
| Item | 内容 |
|---|---|
| Name | Mt. Ishizuchi Tsuchigoya Trailhead |
| Location | 21-1509 Wakayama, Kumakogen, Kamiukena District, Ehime |
| Parking | Available (~100 spaces) Crowded during foliage season |
| Rest rooms | Next to Tsuchigoya Terrace |
| Access | ~2.5 hours by car from central Kochi (via Ishizuchi Skyline) |
| Google Map | https://maps.app.goo.gl/hdU12oqNYNDSCQ4R9 |
🌿 Summary: Nature’s Drama Unfolds
Emerging through fog, autumn colors peeking through cloud breaks. Cold wind contrasting with hot ramen steam. The Tsuchigoya Route on Mt. Ishizuchi was nature’s dramatic theater at its finest.
This route is beginner-friendly yet delivers genuine accomplishment. Coming up in Part 2: I’ll introduce the fascinating plants I encountered along the trail!
Why I share these journeys: As a certified business consultant living in Kochi, I want to showcase Shikoku’s natural wonders. Every mountain has stories, every trail holds lessons. Let’s explore together! 🏔️
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