Mt. Tsurugi

At 1,955 meters, Mt. Tsurugi is the second highest peak on the island of Shikoku and one of the most revered mountains in all of Japan. The mountain's name means "sword" or "sacred blade," and its sharp summit ridge and the sense of spiritual intensity that pervades the high alpine environment have drawn ascetics, pilgrims, and worshippers for over a thousand years. The mountain is dotted with ancient stone markers, small shrines, and moss-covered statues that testify to centuries of devotion.

Highlights

The summit of Mt. Tsurugi is reached via a combination of ropeway and hiking trail. From the upper ropeway station, the trail climbs through dwarf bamboo and alpine scrub to the rocky summit, where a small shrine marks the highest sacred point. The panoramic views on clear days encompass the entire Shikoku mountain range, the Pacific Ocean to the south, and the Seto Inland Sea to the north — a vertiginous reminder of how high the ancient pilgrims climbed. The surrounding area of Iya Valley, with its steep V-shaped gorges, vine bridges (kazurabashi), and isolated traditional villages, adds another layer of mystery to the mountain's setting.

Getting There & Tips

- From JR Oboke Station, take a bus or taxi toward Nishi-Iya; ropeway access from the Tsurugi-san Ropeway Station. - Ropeway operating hours: 9:00–17:00 (last ascent 16:30); fare approximately ¥2,060 round trip. - From the upper station: approximately 50 minutes on foot to the summit. - Sturdy footwear and layers are essential even in summer; temperatures at the summit can be 10°C cooler than the valley. - The Iya Valley's vine bridges (¥550 to cross) are a remarkable additional attraction.

Best Time to Visit

Late June sees the slopes carpeted with purple azaleas. Autumn (late October) brings spectacular foliage across the entire mountain. Early morning visits offer the best chance of clear summit views. Winter brings heavy snow and the ropeway may close; confirm before visiting.