Mount Tsurugi

Mount Tsurugi rises above the forests of Awa, one of the highest peaks on Shikoku. Its name means Sword Mountain, and shrines on its heights preserve stories of sacred objects and imperial memory. One venerates a great rock; another is associated with the sword of Emperor Antoku, who died amid the wars between the Taira and Minamoto. Mountain worship gives the forested summit a significance beyond its commanding height.