A magnetic head includes a magneto-resistance effect element in the form of a multilayer film, a pair of shields between which the magneto-resistance effect element is interposed in the lamination direction of the layers of the magneto-resistance effect element and each functioning as an electrode, a pair of side shields with one of said side shields on each side of the magneto-resistance effect element in the direction perpendicular to the lamination direction of the magneto-resistance effect element interposed between the pair of shields, the side shields magnetically coupled to either of the pair of shields, and an anisotropy-application layer disposed adjacent to the shield magnetically coupled to the pair of side shields. The pair of shields, the magneto-resistance effect element, and the pair of side shields are exposed on the air bearing surface facing a recording medium. The anisotropy-application layer is not exposed on the air bearing surface and is provided at a position away from the air bearing surface.