Ishiteji's Niomon Gate
Ishiteji, literally meaning "stone hand temple" due to a local legend, is number 51 of the 88 temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It is also Matsuyama's most famous temple, located near Dogo Onsen.
Pilgrims dressed in white are a frequent sight at this large temple to the northeast of Matsuyama's city center. The sprawling temple grounds boast several different halls, a three-storied pagoda, along with various statues and small buildings on its grounds. A treasure house displays some of the temple's most important artifacts.
Temple behind Ishiteji
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Paintings in the main hall
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Ishiteji is known for its Niomon Gate, a designated national treasure. The main hall and pagoda are also designated important cultural properties, and all of the structures exhibit the typical architecture style of the Kamakura Period (1192-1333).
Of further interest, Ishiteji hosts a curious looking temple located through a cave behind the main hall. Visitors who follow the dimly lit tunnel will find an overgrown, untended, dome-shaped temple. The building and statues here reflect a very different style than those on the main grounds. The tunnel itself is interesting as well. It branches off in two directions, and houses many statues and carvings.
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