Ishiteji Temple

Ishiteji (石手寺), Matsuyama’s most famous temple, is a revered stop on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, ranking 51st among the 88 temples. Pilgrims in traditional white attire are a common sight as they visit this sprawling temple complex. The temple’s name, meaning "Stone Hand Temple," comes from a fascinating legend about an aristocrat reborn with a stone still clutched in his hand. A beautifully preserved temple approach, lined with wooden shopfronts, leads visitors to the sacred grounds, where a stunning three-story pagoda, multiple halls, and statues create a serene and spiritual atmosphere.

Ishiteji is home to the Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure, as well as Kamakura-period structures like the main hall and pagoda, all rich in history. A highlight of the temple is its mysterious cave, a 200-meter passage filled with Buddhist statues and carvings, leading to an inner temple with a striking golden dome. Here, unique sculptures, including a skeletal image of the Buddha before enlightenment, offer a thought-provoking experience. Overlooking the temple, a towering statue of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, adds to Ishiteji’s deep spiritual significance.