Komatsucho Ishizuchi, Saijo 791-1200 Ehime Prefecture

Mt. Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan, stands at an elevation of 1,982 meters. The mountain straddles the border of the city of Saijo and the town of Kumakogen in Ehime Prefecture. There are several climbing routes, with two main ones. The first route involves taking a ropeway from the Saijo side to the Ishizuchi Shrine Jojusha, and then climbing from there. The distance is about 4.7km one way, and the ascent takes about 3.5 hours. There are many sights to see and the route is well-maintained, making it recommended for beginners. The second route is from the Kumakogen side, passing along the Ishizuchi Skyline and UFO Line, and walking up from the Ishizuchi Shrine Tsuchigoya worship hall. The distance is about 4.6km one way, and the ascent takes about 2.5 hours, making it the fastest route to the summit. See the official website for more information on the breathtaking Ishizuchi Skyline and UFO Line that you pass on your way ot the Ishizuchi Shrine Tsuchigoya worship hall.

798-1 Omachi, Saijo 793-0030 Ehime Prefecture

This railway museum, the only authentic one in Shikoku, features exhibits including the 0 Series Shinkansen, which made its appearance with the opening of the Shinkansen line in 1964, and the JNR Class DF50 locomotive, designated as a heritage train and primarily known for its operations on Shikoku. Six train cars are on display here. Visitors can also ride the 0 Series Shinkansen, DF50 locomotive, and the diesel locomotive, and can try operating levers and switches from the driver's seat. The museum also features a large diorama that recreates Shikoku's scenic landscapes, railway sign displays, signals, and rolling stock wheels. This facility is meant to be enjoyed not only by enthusiasts, but visitors of all ages, allowing anyone to enjoy and learn about railways. You can try Saijo's famous Uchinuki spring water at the Tourist Exchange Center. At the adjacent Shinji Sogo Memorial Museum, you can also learn about the achievements of Shinji Sogo, the father of the Shinkansen.

2253 Komatsu-cho Ishizuchi, Saijo 799-1112 Ehime Prefecture

Ko-428 Komatsucho Shinyashiki, Saijo 799-1101 Ehime Prefecture

Ko 19 Komatsucho Minamikawa, Saijo 799-1102 Ehime Prefecture

1586 Okishinden, Saijo 796-0087 Ehime Prefecture

1048 Himiotsu, Saijo 793-0072 Ehime Prefecture

1426 Sunoushi Ko, Saijo 793-0053 Ehime Prefecture

797 Nishida Ko, Saijo 793-8555 Ehime Prefecture

Ishizuchi Shrine is located in Saijo, Ehime Prefecture, and serves as the head shrine for the shrines dedicated to Mt. Ishizuchi, the highest peak in western Japan. Ishizuchi Shrine consists of four shrines: the summit shrine at the top of Mt. Ishizuchi, Chugu Jojusha and Tsuchigoya Haiden midway up the mountain, and the honsha (main shrine) near Route 11 and Ishizuchi Station at the base of the mountain. All four of these shrines make up Ishizuchi Shrine. Ishizuchi Shrine is believed to grant wishes and attracts visitors from all over Japan. Of the four shrines, the Kuchinomiya Honsha is the easiest to get to. The shrine even has rooms for visitors to sleep in, making it great spot to stay at while visiting the area. Various festivals and rituals are held throughout the year and are definitely worth checking out if you happen to be in the area. Even when there aren't any special events happening, visitors can come visit the shrine to pray.

Teragawa, Saijo 781-2605 Ehime Prefecture

422 Komatsucho Ishizuchi, Saijo 799-1112 Ehime Prefecture

1657 Tambaracho, Kota, Saijo 791-0505 Ehime Prefecture

456 Hinokuchi, Saijo 793-0043 Ehime Prefecture

Akeyashiki, Saijo 793-0023 Ehime Prefecture

Nishinokawaotsu, Saijo 793-0215 Ehime Prefecture