Mt. Tsurugi — Shikoku's Second Highest Peak

**Chairlift vs. full hike:** The chairlift (見ノ越駅–西島駅, Minokoshi–Nishijima) saves 1 hour and 400m elevation gain, making the summit accessible to casual hikers. Purists skip the lift and hike the full trail (3 hours up, 2.5 hours down) through mixed forest before reaching bamboo zone. Either way, the final 40-minute section from lift top is on foot. **Summit shrine:** Tsurugi Jinja (剣神社) sits at the peak, built in 1380, rebuilt in 1930. The shrine sells simple meals (udon, curry rice, ¥800) and hot coffee — surprisingly civilized for a mountain summit. Overnight stays possible in basic mountain hut (¥5,000, reservation required, bring sleeping bag). **Seasonal timing:** Best months: April–May (alpine flowers, azaleas), July (festival period, crowds), October (fall foliage, clearest skies). Avoid June (rainy season, clouds obscure views). Snow closes the chairlift December–March, but winter climbing is possible for experienced mountaineers with crampons. **Extension hike:** Experienced hikers can continue from Tsurugi summit to Mt. Jirogyu (次郎笈, 1,930m, 90 min) via ridge trail — exposed alpine ridge walking with dwarf bamboo on both sides, spectacular but requires good weather and fitness. Round-trip from chairlift: 5 hours.