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

#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 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.

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

🚇 Limousine airport bus from Takamatsu Airport to Kotohira JR station / Takamatsu-Chikko 📷 Spa, massage, dining in hotel ( please booked massage in advance) 🍜 Japanese fine dining 🏠 Kotohira Kaden

Want to go to Japan during the Qingming Festival holiday? Take a look at this super practical 5-day travel guide to help you easily enjoy Japan without any pitfalls! -- 🏃‍♀️Itinerary: Day 1: Depart from Shanghai to Japan and arrive at Takamatsu Airport. After arranging your hotel, you can start your trip to Japan! Day 2: Kotohira-gu Shrine -> Zentsuji Temple -> Takamatsu Castle Visit the mysterious Kotohira-gu Shrine and feel the ancient religious atmosphere; then visit the historic Zentsu-ji Temple to experience the profound cultural heritage; finally, visit the magnificent Takamatsu Castle and appreciate the charm of the ancient Japanese city. Day 3: Kankakei -> Shodoshima Olive Park -> Angel Road First, stroll along Kanxiakei to enjoy the charming natural scenery; then go to Shodoshima Olive Park to experience the unique island climate; finally, walk along Angel Road to enjoy the caress of the sea breeze and the sea view in the distance. Day 4: Ritsurin Garden Spend the whole day exploring Ritsurin Garden, one of Japan's most famous parks with its unique garden scenery, where you can enjoy the tranquility and harmony of nature. Day 5: Transfer from the hotel to Takamatsu Airport and take a flight back to Shanghai, ending your pleasant trip to Japan. 🛫 -- 🧳 Travel checklist: What should I prepare for a trip to Japan? 📞 🇯🇵A local phone card is necessary for easy communication and to prevent getting lost. 🔌 A travel adapter is essential. Japan's voltage is 100V, so don't forget to bring a converter. 🪪 Be sure to bring your documents, including your passport and visa, so you can travel without worries. 👗 If you are going to Japan in March, bring some spring and autumn clothes. Windbreakers and thin jackets are very practical. 🔋 Chargers and power banks are essential, as are mobile phones and cameras. 💊 Always carry your medicine with you, just in case. It is important to travel healthy. -- Friends who like traveling in Japan, don’t forget to like and collect this post so you won’t get lost next time you come to Japan!

Cherry blossom season is here! This five-day tour of Japan will take you to romantic cherry blossom destinations. Check out this super practical guide and save it now! Don't miss this annual flower festival! -------------------- 🗺️Itinerary: Day 1: Takamatsu Symbol Tower 📍Explore the landmark building of Takamatsu City and enjoy the charming cityscape. Day 2: Shodoshima Island 🌊Take a boat to the beautiful Shodoshima Island and experience the tranquility and charm of the island. Day 3: Ritsurin Garden -> Kotohira-gū (Konpira Shrine) 🌳Stroll through the historic Ritsurin Garden and then visit the mystical Kotohira-gū (Konpira Shrine) for blessings. Day 4: Shikoku Aquarium 🐠Visit the Shikoku Aquarium, get up close and personal with marine life, and experience the wonders of the ocean. Day 5: Takamatsu - Shanghai 🛫End your wonderful Shikoku trip, depart from Takamatsu, and head back to Shanghai. -------------------- **Things to Note**: - 🎁Pay attention to the prices of local specialties, as some stores may overcharge. - 🍣When trying local cuisine, be mindful of any food allergies. - 📖A visa is required to travel to Japan, so be sure to apply in advance to avoid affecting your trip. - 🚗If you plan to drive in Japan, familiarize yourself with the traffic regulations and drive safely. - 💡The electrical voltage may be different, so remember to bring a converter. - 💰Japan has a high cost of living, so it's important to budget accordingly. - 🗾Respect local customs and culture to avoid unnecessary trouble. -------------------- 🌸We hope this guide will help you better enjoy Japan and have a wonderful trip!

🏯 This is the Konpira Shrine visited by both Chibi Maruko-chan and Conan! 🔍 Konpira Shrine parking lot. If it's a holiday, such as New Year's, the parking lots near the Sando path will definitely be full. You can choose to drive in the opposite direction of the Sando path for 2–3 minutes. There is a free parking lot down a slope. It's about an 8–10 minute walk to the Sando path. ⛩️ What to do 1. There are many famous restaurants on the Sando path, including udon 🍜, Kinryo sake 🍶, egg burgers, ice cream 🍦, dango 🍡, and more. They are all super old-fashioned! Many locals come here before the New Year! 2. About a 10-minute walk away, you'll find the 100th step, which appears in Chibi Maruko-chan. 3. The Treasure Museum requires a fee of ¥800/person. 4. The stable and the Tengu statue are at the 477th step. There is a restroom here. The 500th step is where the Mokubasha (wooden horse stable) is located. There is also an afternoon tea shop here. 5. Further up is the Asahi-sha. You can put coins in the water tank here. 6. Here you can buy symbolic yellow 💛 good luck charms and dog 🐶 zodiac charms. 7. The entire route is uphill. 8. It takes 1,368 steps to reach the top of Konpira Shrine. There are Tengu charms here, and they are only available here! They cost ¥1,000 each, and there are still many elderly people and children who can reach the top! Climb to the top of Konpira Shrine, and you will surely succeed next year! ⚠️ Note 1. The whole process, including taking photos, takes about 4 hrs (it's estimated that 2 hrs is enough without taking photos). 2. Charms can only be purchased with cash, so please bring cash 💰. 3. If you need a walking stick, several shops offer them for ¥100/time. 4. Be careful when going up and down the stairs. There are also coin-operated fortune-telling games along the way. Feel free to try them if you're interested. 5. There are hotels and shopping streets at the foot of the mountain (they close early).