2025 Kotohira Travel Guide: Must-see attractions, popular food, hotels, transportation routes (updated in June)

For this trip, I chose to depart from Osaka and head to Kotohira-gu Shrine, which is hailed as a must-visit shrine for Japanese people at least once in their lifetime. Known for its magnificent architecture and endless stairs, this shrine became one of the biggest challenges of our journey. Early in the morning, we took a train from Osaka to Kotohira, enjoying the beautiful rural scenery and small towns along the way. The train journey took about two hours, filling us with anticipation. Upon arriving at Kotohira Station, the cool air refreshed us, preparing us for the upcoming challenge. From Kotohira Station, we followed the signs to Kotohira-gu Shrine. Along the way, local shops sold specialties that tempted me to stop and taste some delicious snacks. Soon, we reached the entrance of Kotohira-gu Shrine and saw a staircase leading up the mountain, feeling both excited and nervous. Kotohira-gu Shrine has a total of 1,368 steps, making this challenge anything but simple. With each step, we could see the beautiful natural scenery around us and pilgrims from all over, all striving for the same goal. The stairs were lined with trees, and sunlight filtered through the leaves, casting dappled shadows, making the whole process poetic. As we ascended the stairs, the fatigue in our legs became more apparent, but our spirits grew more excited. Whenever we stopped to rest, we saw more believers and travelers, all working hard for their wishes. This resonance gave us an invisible strength, motivating us to keep going. After nearly an hour of effort, we finally reached the main hall of Kotohira-gu Shrine. Standing in front of the shrine, overlooking the beautiful view of Kotohira City, we felt an immense sense of accomplishment. At that moment, all the fatigue seemed to disappear, leaving only inner peace and joy. Inside the shrine, we participated in a simple prayer ceremony, silently making wishes for the future. Facing the magnificent architecture of the shrine, feeling the weight of history and the depth of culture, our souls were well cleansed. Strolling around the shrine, appreciating the surrounding natural scenery, our hearts were filled with gratitude. On the way back, we descended the endless stairs again. Although our legs were tired, this challenge made our spirits stronger. This trip to Kotohira-gu Shrine was not only a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey. For us, it was an unforgettable experience, and we look forward to climbing these stairs again in the future, embracing new challenges and hopes.

#1月好去地方2025 This famous and difficult temple in Shikoku is located at the foot of the 521-meter-high Elephant Head Mountain. To visit Kotohira-gu Shrine, you must first walk the 1,368-step stone path. There is no cable car to take, which is a great test of both your physical strength and your will! When I visited Kotohira-gu Shrine in April, I saw the approach to the shrine was covered with a sea of ​​blooming cherry blossoms on both sides, which was so beautiful that I couldn't take my eyes off it! The colorful and pink cherry blossoms, set against the stone steps and temples of the ancient temple, and the slightly cloudy weather, really reach new heights of beauty. Kotohira-gu Shrine is a well-known sacred place of power in Japan. It is also a heavyweight attraction that many Japanese people have considered to be a "must-visit pilgrimage once in their lifetime" since ancient times. The temple enshrines Omononushi and Emperor Sutoku, gods who protect maritime safety and a good harvest. Therefore, many new ships come here to pray for safety before launching. Although there are many stairs in Kotohira-gu Shrine, they can be divided into two stages. One is the 785 steps from the shrine to the Hongu Shrine, and the other is the 583 steps from the Hongu Shrine to the Genkondama Shrine. The whole journey takes 2 hours. People with poor physical strength can just walk half of it. There are many shops along the way at the foot of the mountain where you can buy some food to replenish your energy, or go shopping for some companionship. #Shikoku Travel #Konpiragu Shrine

4-day Japan tour with a carefully selected itinerary! Great atmosphere, beautiful scenery, come explore with me! / 🌈 Itinerary: D1: Ritsurin Garden -> Yashima Visit the picturesque Ritsurin Garden and enjoy the beauty of nature. Then head to Yashima and immerse yourself in the island scenery and historical culture. D2: Shodoshima Olive Park -> Angel Road Enjoy a peaceful time at Shodoshima Olive Park, then stroll along Angel Road and feel the romantic meeting of the sea and sky. D3: Kotohira-gu Shrine Visit Kotohira-gu Shrine, experience the profound Japanese shrine culture, and pray for a safe and smooth journey. D4: Takamatsu -> Shanghai Depart from Takamatsu with fond memories and end your pleasant trip to Japan. / Travel tips: 💵 The exchange rate in Japan is relatively stable, so it's more cost-effective to exchange currency at the bank in advance. 🍣 Sushi and ramen are a must-try! And takoyaki is delicious too! 📇 Japanese visas need to be applied for in advance, so don't forget to prepare the necessary materials. 🎁 Kimono and matcha tea sets are good souvenirs at a reasonable price. / A trip to Japan is simple and beautiful, waiting for you to explore every wonderful moment! 🌟

◆ Kotohira Shrine (892-1, Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture) ◆ Nicknamed Konpira-san. You have to climb 785 stone steps to reach the main shrine. When it comes to Kotohira, a visit to Konpira-san is a recommended spot that you can't miss. ☑︎Physical strength is required to reach the top →Lots of stairs, some steep ☑︎Rent a walking stick →Can be rented at the base for a fee →You might be able to borrow one for free at your accommodation ☑︎Use the Konpira mountaineering pilgrimage shuttle →700 yen one way per adult to the 365th step of the Daimon →Reservation required, highly recommended ☑︎Don't push yourself →Some people give up halfway through ☑︎Be careful on rainy days →Watch your step ☑︎There's also a sacred horse Visited: October 2024 #Pre-trip checklist #100 travel styles #Domestic travel #Tourism #Shikoku #Konpira-san #Kotohira Shrine #Kagawa Prefecture #Kagawa Tourism #Kotohira #Konpira Onsen

This is a Japanese-style room with a bed at Hana Club. You can see the pool and Kotoden from the window. We had a kaiseki dinner and a buffet breakfast in the dining area. Inside the building, photos and autographs of Kabuki actors are on display, giving it a sense of history. There are also plenty of hot springs, so it was really good to stay at Kobaitei. I recommend it if you're staying in Kotohira. ✱----------------------------------------------- [Hotel name] Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hana no Yu Koubai-tei [Location] 556-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa [Access] Approximately 10 minutes by car from Sakaide I.C. on the Takamatsu Expressway [Parking] Available (free) [Accommodation plan] Hana Club Rakuwa (with massage chair) Japanese-style bed, non-smoking, check-in 15:00, check-out 10:00, 2 people per room @ 26,400 yen ~ / person Visit date: October 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱ #Hot spring trip #100 travel styles #Domestic travel #Tourism

The hotel offers such a variety of hot spring facilities that it feels like you're touring different baths without ever leaving the premises. The hospitality was top-notch and truly wonderful. If you're staying at Konpira Onsen, I highly recommend Kobaitei. ◆ Inside the Hotel: 'Hanasumika' There are saunas, open-air baths, and a massage area called 'Ashiyasume.' The women's open-air bath had roses floating in it at night and orchids in the morning. ◆ Outside the Hotel: 'Garden Open-Air Bath & Hana Terrace' There are foot baths, a 'Hitoyasumi' café, and open-air baths surrounded by greenery. The Hitoyasumi café offers free alcohol at night as a post-bath treat. ✱----------------------------------------------- 【Hotel Name】Yumoto Konpira Onsen Hana no Yu Kobaitei 【Location】556-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture 【Access】About 10 minutes by car from Sakaide I.C on the Takamatsu Expressway 【Parking】Available (Free) 【Accommodation Plan】Hana Club - Rakua Twin, with in-room open-air bath, non-smoking, check-in at 15:00, check-out at 10:00, 2 people per room @31,900 yen~/person Visit Date: October 2024 -----------------------------------------------✱

If you're planning to visit Kagawa Prefecture, we highly recommend getting the 'Udon Prefecture Hospitality Passport' first. It offers discounts at tourist facilities, a stamp rally with prize draws, and the fun feature of getting stamps when entering and leaving Kagawa. The content and volume are impressive! Kagawa is known for its udon, and it truly lives up to the name 'Udon Prefecture.' - 20% off admission to the old Konpira Grand Theatre 'Kanamaruza' in Kotohira (Adults: 500 yen → 400 yen) - Mannou Park ◆ Udon Prefecture Hospitality Passport ◆ Distribution Locations: Check the official website, tourist facilities, service areas, and accommodations. Visit Date: October 2024

Kotohira-gu Shrine and Kotohira Dog Don’t miss Kotohira-gu Shrine when you come to Shikoku! Although I came to see the dogs 😆 It is said that in the past, the distance to visit shrines in Shikoku was very long, and it was very difficult for elderly believers to travel far, so they would give their dogs to their neighbors who were coming to visit, and let the dogs visit on their behalf~ (Look what my dog ​​is doing🤣 In addition to Kotohira Dog, the scenery here is also very charming~ If you want to go to the last Oku Shrine, there are 1386 steps in total, which will test your leg strength. Many people will turn back at the main shrine, but Oku Shrine has a limited number of royal heads! You can’t buy it without climbing up~ There are also tengu on the stone wall, and the scenery from the commanding heights is more vast~ It was actually quite comfortable to walk slowly that day~ There are shade trees along the way to Osha, so it won’t be too hot in summer. #100WAYS TO TRAVEL #香川観光 #Japanese Attractions #Solo Travel #Dopamine Travel #Kontohira Palace #Shrine Visit

Many unique attractions in Japan🗾 are a must-see in life One of the things that everyone says must visit once in a lifetime is the Golden Tobiro Shrine😂 After going can only say that it is very make very worth going 🥹 but must be young to go!! ️ Because it has a lot of stairs 😅 is quite about physical strength 😂 If you can go in the winter must be much more comfortable 😌 summer will definitely be wet 🤣🤣 Kintohira-gu Shrine is located at the foot of the 521-meter Elephant Head Mountain. It is mainly dedicated to the Lord of Omono and Emperor Sotoku🫡 It is in the name of blessing safety at sea and a good harvest ❤️ so many Japanese 🇯🇵 local shipyards will pray for peace before the new ship falls into the water 😎 So it really takes physical strength to visit here🤨 But even so it is visited by more than 4 million people every year🤯 This number is really exaggerated If you start at the shrine to go to the Gomoto Palace, you need to go to level 785 🤣 If you want to go to Osha Yanhun Shrine, you need to go to level 583 😂 So it's really hard It only takes about 2 hours for you to walk seriously🤯 However, you can see the local historical monuments on the way In addition, there are quite a few shops on both sides of the stone steps selling local specialty products snacks and groceries 😍 If you are tired from walking, you can actually eat and rest And about the middle there will be a hand water house 😍 before the worship will be there to wash the hands 😌 is respect for the gods 🙏🏻 I don't know how to wash it, it will have icons🤪 very convenient If you want to visit you can throw the fragrance oil money 5 yen to the front racing box!! ️ Then bow twice and clap twice before praying for your wish🤓 Finally, I bow again😎🫡 If you don't remember, let's see how the Japanese do If you want to keep a souvenir, you have a smile. Yuan気くん守り is red, white and blue. There are also three colors combined with four styles🤓 Kintohiro Miya is related to dogs because it was very difficult for civilians to visit shrines in the Edo period so there was a custom of hiring an agent to visit!! ️ And being an agent in addition to people will also have owners write their names in the wood and then race money in the bag and then put on the dog's neck so that he land to give The dog that went to pay homage to Kintohiro Palace on behalf of the owner is called こんぴら dog ❤️ After going I thought it was well worth it But really think it's more advantageous to go young Because many elderly people walk very hard If possible I think winter is best to go #Japan-Korea city attractions #Japan must-see #weekend tour #foodphotography #trip #japan travel #japan #japan travel #japan travel #japan summer travel #parent-child travel guide

Kotohira shrine in Kagawa prefecture in Shikoku is a shrine dedicated to sailors and seafarers. It is situated at 521 m - halfway to the top of Mount Zozu. The journey starts from the Kotohira town where there is a row of souvenir shops and restaurants, and it will gradually go uphill with a long stretch of stairs. There is a large tori at the entrance of Kotohira- gu, while the two sides stood many stone pillars marking the “millions “ of yen contributed to the shrine over the years. There were many large and small shrines as we walked up the long flight of stairs, and we made our first stop at 477 steps where there were two beautiful white horses that werr 14 and 18 years old. There was also a cafe at 500 steps but it was already closed when we arrived. Our next stop was the Main Shrine at 785 steps. The view of the nearby towns and fields from there was quite spectacular! However as it was closed to 5pm we noticed the workers started to close some of the windows of the shrine. Just as we were about to start uphill again, we were told that the premise gate will close by 6pm, and we should start to go downhill. As much as we wanted to reach the top, we couldn’t make it this time. If you are planning to complete the whole journey uphill, I would recommend to start from 2 or 3 pm latest as there are many interesting things to see and photos to be taken. You would also want to take your time to walk slowly and rest from time to time. There is no admission fee to visit Kotohira gu. #Kotohiragu #Kotohira #shrine ##japan #kagawa #shikoku

Kotoshira is at Shikoku in Japan, which is an island between Osaka and Kyushu. It's not a very common travelling place as it's more rural - people tend to go to the city. It's indeed a nice place as there are a lot of locals and little tourists. 1. Kotohiragu - Known as the hardest-to-go temple as it's up on the hill 2. Street - Udon flavoured ice cream - very special - Customise wooden keychain souvenir - Local restaurant with homy food like sashimi set and tempura

●Name Kotohira Onsen Kotosankaku ●Access 685-11 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa 🚗Private parking available ●Points Hot spring town at the foot of Mt. Konpira There are many inns lined up, including a number of large inns... Kotosankaku has a sense of dignity and I really like the solid feel of the hardware. It is a large inn and has many group guests, but the customer service is solid and the food is delicious for a large inn, so I am satisfied 😋 Another attraction is the hot springs. The multiple hot springs and many types will help you relax after your trip ♨️ I stayed at Hitenkan 10 years ago, and it doesn't feel old and is well maintained. The main building of Sansuikan is reasonably priced, so if you want to have fun, you will be satisfied here. #Domestic travel #Kagawa #Inn #Hot springs

●Name Kotohira Shrine ●Access 892-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa 🚗Use nearby parking ●Points Kotohira Shrine, famous for "Sanuki Konpira-san" 785 steps from the approach to the main shrine 1,368 stone steps to the inner shrine The gates open from 6am, so you can enjoy a refreshing view while working up a sweat before breakfast The round trip from the inn district to the main shrine takes about an hour It's the season for fresh greenery now, so you can have a very pleasant morning In the Edo period, like Ise Shrine, Kotohira Shrine was a place that many people longed to visit, as it was "a place you want to visit at least once in your life" You'll understand if you climb up 🤭 As the sun begins to rise, the shops along the approach become lively and you can enjoy it #Domestic travel #Kagawa #Temples and shrines #Tourist spots

#JapanTravel #Kotohira #KagawaPrefecture #KonpiraGuesthouse 📍Kotohira, Japan, KonpiraGuesthouse Kotohira is a really small city, so if you want to go to a busy place, you have to come to the area around KotohiraGuesthouse. Kotohira is one of the 100 most sacred pilgrimage sites in Japan, so there are a lot of tourists and pilgrims, not just Japanese people. The view from KonpiraGuesthouse after climbing the 785 steps was even more beautiful. There were long nameplates next to the flat ground that appeared in the middle of the stairs. They are said to be the names of people who supported or helped when KonpiraGuesthouse was built. There was a really long line while climbing the stairs. The moss made it feel like something out of Spirited Away.

Walking up the mountain, the restaurant is on the far left side of Kotohira-gu Shrine. When you see the sign, go down the stairs next to it and you will reach the restaurant. The environment is comfortable and elegant. It is open from nine in the morning to five in the afternoon every day. The price of exquisite lunch sets ranges from 2,000 yen to 4,000 yen, which is quite cost-effective in this environment. You can also call or sit and have a cup of coffee, which is more affordable. The energy consumption of climbing the mountain is so great, I recommend this as a good place to replenish energy and rest👍👍👍

Location 🗺 1241-5 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture 766-0001 Free shuttle bus available from JR Kotohira Station or Kotoden Kotohira Station I stayed at the traditional luxury inn "Kotohira Kadan," located near Mount Konpira, a famous tourist spot in Kagawa Prefecture 💐 This time, I stayed in a room called the "Japanese-Western Special Room" in the Fujimidai building. Those who stayed in one of the other special rooms can enjoy a private bath for free (3rd photo) 🛁 (Of course, the large bath and hot springs are also available! There is also a sauna!) In addition, the kaiseki cuisine was carefully prepared and delicious from start to finish, and I even enjoyed seasonal conger eel and olive beef, a specialty of Kagawa Prefecture ☺️ There are various meal courses available, so please choose one that suits your likes and dislikes and your budget when making a reservation ♪ While maintaining the traditional atmosphere, the facilities and interior were beautiful, making it a very satisfying inn. This is a ryokan that you should definitely stay at for a family trip or for an occasional luxury stay✨ #SummerWeekendTrip #KagawaPrefecture #Kotohira

Kintohiro-gu Shrine is located in Kotohira-cho, Jodo-gun, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan This palace is used to worship the guardian of maritime traffic 😝 so you can 😌 see many shipyards and ship owners praying for safe sailing before the new ship goes into the water It is for this reason that you can 😌 see the pictures of various civilian military ships and marine engines hanging in the Drawing Horse Hall hanging after praying for peace😂 This is the first time I have seen such a special shrine😗😗 After visiting, you can also go to the shops in Fansan Road to buy special items 🥰 Many of them are unique souvenirs #OverseasTravel #JapanTravel #JapanGood Places #ResidentWriter #JapanTravelStrategy

▷ Mount Konpira Mount Konpira is located in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture. It is a mountain with such a long history that it has been called the once-in-a-lifetime Konpira since the Edo period. It is also known as the guardian deity of the sea, and is famous for fishermen and sailors coming to pray. After climbing about 800 steps, you will reach the main shrine, and the mountain has a beautiful view. From there, you can climb about 700 steps to the top. It is a place where you can see Kotohira in its entirety, and you can feel the sacred atmosphere. ▷Caution There are many stairs, so we recommend wearing comfortable shoes and clothes that are easy to move in. Be careful as the width and height of each step of the stairs vary. If you have small children, please be careful as they may get a little tired at the height. However, the view from the top is very beautiful, so I would definitely recommend climbing it. #Kagawa #Mountaineering #MountainClimbing #Shikoku

After climbing a long flight of stairs, you finally reach the shrine. It's refreshing and gives you a sense of accomplishment, knowing that it's at the end of a long climb. There are lots of fun shops near the start of the stairs. We recommend wearing sneakers when you go, as it's easier to climb. #SupportTourism

#Kagawa #Kotohiragu Kotohiragu is said to be one of the places you should visit at least once in your life. When you reach the top of the stone steps, you can see the cityscape and the view is spectacular! You can walk to the shrine from the station, and there are geisha for a fee, so it's a casual place to go.

The street leading to Kotohira Shrine in Kotohira Town, Nakatado District, Kagawa Prefecture, also serves as the main approach to the shrine. It's recommended because you can visit the Kinryu sake brewery, a Kagawa Prefecture sake brewery, souvenir shops, and try foods that are typical of Kagawa Prefecture, such as the specialty oiri soft serve ice cream! #Retro streetscape

I stayed at Kotohira Onsen Kotosankaku in Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture. This hot spring inn is located a 5-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station and Kotohira Shrine. It was great to relax in the hot spring after walking around Kotohira Shrine and sleep in a Japanese-style room with tatami mats! ♨️ It's nice that they offer sweets as a welcome treat, which is typical of a ryokan. #hotspring

Kinryo Village is located in Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture. This is a tour facility for a sake brewery famous for its sake brand Kinryo. Kagawa's sake is made using a unique type of sake rice called Ooseto rice, rather than Yamada Nishiki rice. It has a full-bodied taste, but many of the sakes are crisp and dry, making it a perfect match for fish and other dishes! #Free Spot #Retro Streetscape

Kotohira Shrine is located in Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture. There are many stairs, and many people who boast about their strong legs. A power spot appears at the top of more than 1,300 steps! You can rent walking sticks to use when climbing the stairs at the foot of the mountain, so if you are not confident, we recommend bringing one with you! #Shrine #FreeSpot

Foot bath at Shikishimakan 713-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture Kotohira Onsen Onyado Shikishimakan offers a free foot bath. Even if you are not a guest, you can rest your tired feet after visiting Konpira. You can bring your own towel or purchase one from the vending machine. #Kagawa #Sanuki #Summer trip #Hot spring trip

JR Kotohira Station As soon as you exit the ticket gates at Kotohira Station on the JR Shikoku Dosan Line, you'll see a variety of things. The sights right outside the ticket gates will make your trip exciting. ・Birthplace of Shikoku Railway At JR Kotohira Station, the terminus of the Sanuki Railway, there is a monument to the birthplace of Shikoku Railway, a steam locomotive wheel and an inscription. ・New Kabuki Juhachiban Kagamijishi Statue This was erected in February 1992 as part of the 30th anniversary project of the Kotohira Rotary Club. #SummerShortTrip

Transportation Guide - Bus/JR Local Attractions - Ritsurin Garden / Marugame Castle / Kotohira Shrine Food and Restaurants - Udon Homeland / Grilled Chicken on the Bone 1. Address - Ritsurin Garden Highlights - A perfect spot for leisure, enjoy flower viewing and scenic beauty 🌸, make your own udon noodles 🤩 Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 2. Address - Kotohira Shrine Highlights - Challenge yourself‼️ Climb 783 steps to reach the main shrine or 1,386 steps to reach the inner shrine. Purchase the unique Tengu amulet 👺. Even if you skip the stairs, the charming shopping street offers creative local products. Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 3. Address - Marugame Castle Highlights - Experience traditional Japanese culture, walk up the gentle slope, and enjoy breathtaking views of Takamatsu from the highest point 🥹. Rating - ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

The Kotohira Shrine, often referred to by ancient people as a place one must visit at least once in their lifetime, offers numerous attractions worth exploring. On your way down the mountain, you’ll encounter the Asahi Shrine. This shrine, built during the Tenpō era, features a two-story irimoya-style copper-tiled roof and exquisite wooden architecture. It took craftsmen a full 40 years to complete this masterpiece. Before the separation of Shinto and Buddhism, this site served as the main hall of Matsuo Temple, enshrining Konpira. Today, the deity statue has been relocated to Saidaiji Temple in Okayama for worship. Outside the Asahi Shrine, you’ll find two large water jars. These are known as "wish-granting jars," where it is said that if you can float a one-yen coin on the water without it sinking, your wish will come true. In Shinto tradition, there is a custom of dedicating sacred horses to the gods. In the past, samurai would offer horses to pray for victory, while at Kyoto’s Kifune Shrine, horses were offered to pray for rain. Nowadays, most shrines use statues instead, but at Kotohira Shrine, two real horses, named Gekkin and Luce, are dedicated here. Known for its efficacy in ensuring maritime safety, the shrine is surrounded by stone monuments donated by worshippers along the 1,000-plus stone steps. Many of these donations, made around the Shōwa 50s (1970s), amount to one million yen each. Considering the average annual income at the time was about 440,000 yen, this demonstrates the generosity of the devotees. Additionally, a shipbuilding company has even donated a 19-ton ship propeller assembly, a remarkable and valuable metal casting. 📍Address: 〒766-0001 Kagawa Prefecture, Nakatado District, Kotohira Town 892-1 🚗 Access: From JR Kotohira Station or Kotoden Kotohira Station, it’s a 10-minute walk to the mountain entrance. Climb 628 steps to reach the Asahi Shrine.