Ishite-ji Temple
Ishite-ji Temple is a Shingon Buddhist pilgrimage temple, the 51st temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. It is known for its National Treasure, the Niō Gate, and is one of Matsuyama’s oldest temples, located near Dogo Onsen.
Ishiteji is a temple of the Shingon Buzan sect located in Ishite, Matsuyama City. Its mountain name is Kumanozan, its temple building name is Kokuzoin, and its main deity is Yakushi Nyorai. It is the 51st temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, said to have been founded in 728. Located close to Dogo Onsen, it is one of the leading ancient temples in Matsuyama, bustling with pilgrims and worshipers. It is also known as a temple associated with the legend of the rebirth of Emon Saburo, who is considered the originator of the pilgrimage.
Origin of the Temple Name (The Legend of the Rebirth of Emon Saburo)
It is passed down that the temple was called Anyoji at the time of its founding, and that in the Konin era, Kukai (Kobo Daishi) visited and changed it to the Shingon sect. Later, when Okikata, born to the Kono clan, received prayers at this temple, a stone inscribed with "Rebirth of Emon Saburo" appeared from his clenched hand. According to this legend of rebirth, the temple's name was changed to Ishiteji.
Niomon Gate (National Treasure)
The Niomon Gate standing in front of the approach is designated as a National Treasure. It is a two-story gate with a gabled hip roof and tile roofing, said to have been erected by Michitsugu Kono in 1318, and was designated as a National Treasure on November 22, 1952. Inside the gate, Kongorikishi statues (Nio statues) are enshrined.
Important Cultural Properties
In addition to the Niomon Gate, multiple structures such as the Main Hall, Three-Story Pagoda, Bell Tower (hakamagoshi-zukuri style), Karitemotendo Hall, and Gogado Hall are designated as national Important Cultural Properties. Souvenir shops line the approach, conveying the atmosphere of a pilgrimage path. In 2009, it was selected as a one-star site in the Michelin Green Guide (Japan edition).
Access
- About 1 km east of Dogo Onsen
- Location: 2-9-21 Ishite, Matsuyama City
Source: Cultural Heritage Online, Matsuyama City Official Website, "Ishiteji" Wikipedia (CC BY-SA). Please check the site or official sources for information on viewing.
Last confirmed date: July 2026
More spots in Ishite-ji Temple Area
See all in this area →Osake no Gaiya Dogo
A liquor shop in Ishite, Dogo. It stocks local sake from Ehime among other drinks.
Masaoka Shiki Haiku Monument (Ishite-ji Temple Approach)
A haiku monument of Masaoka Shiki is located on the approach to Ishite-ji Temple, the 51st pilgrimage temple in Shikoku. It can be visited along with a visit to Ishite-ji Temple, known for its National Treasure, Nio-mon.
Ishite-ji Okunoin Atago-sha
Atago-sha, the inner sanctuary (okunoin) of Ishite-ji, the 51st temple of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage. It is a quiet place of worship nestled in the hills.
51-ban Shokudo
An eating house on the approach to Ishiteji, the 51st temple of the Shikoku 88-temple pilgrimage. It makes and sells its speciality yakimochi, and also serves udon, soba and oden.
Shin-Ishite Park
A popular family park along the Ishite River. It has colorful combined playground equipment and a sandpit, and the restrooms are equipped with diaper-changing sheets.
Books Haruya Spirits Ishite
“Books Haruya Spirits Ishite” is a bookstore in Ishite, Matsuyama. It is one store in the Books Haruya Spirits chain, which operates in Shikoku and other areas.
Sobaya Futaba
A soba restaurant in Ishite, Matsuyama. It opens for lunch, with evenings by reservation only, and stands towards Ishiteji.
Familymart Matsuyama Ishite
Near Dogo, this convenience store has a large parking area and eat-in space. It is open 24 hours.