EhimeTravel

135 Stone Steps to a Shrine with Brilliant Red Hachiman-Style Architecture

About this spot

An ancient shrine standing on a hill overlooking Dogo's hot spring town. Climbing the 135 stone steps of the approach, you suddenly encounter the bright red main gate and corridors. The current shrine buildings are in the rare Hachiman architectural style, found in only a few examples in Japan, and are designated as National Important Cultural Properties. Walking around the corridors encircling the main hall, you'll find detailed carvings and hanging lanterns with much to admire in every corner. The corridors display votive mathematical plaques donated by Edo-period mathematicians, preserving the era's culture of presenting mathematical problems and solutions to the gods. From in front of the main gate, looking back, you can gaze out over Dogo's hot spring town and Matsuyama city—a reward-like view awaiting those who have climbed the steps.

Tips

Each step is relatively low but numerous; climb slowly using the handrails. From Haikara Street, you reach the shrine approach in just minutes. Many days allow free viewing of the corridors as a voluntary offering; confirm with the shrine office. As evening approaches and the sun grows lower, the red buildings gleam even more brilliantly.