Kotohiragu Shrine

Kotohira-gu is an independent Shinto shrine in Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture. Known as “Sanuki no Konpira-san,” it is a historic shrine revered as a guardian deity of the sea. You can receive three types of goshuin (shrine seals): Kotohira-gu, Shiromine-gu, and Izutama Shrine. The approach has 785 stone steps to the main shrine, and 1,368 steps to the inner shrine (Okusha). It is said the number was set at 785 rather than 786 because 786 can be read as a pun meaning “to worry.” The stairs begin gently but the final section becomes quite steep. Along the approach, shops provide walking sticks that can be returned anywhere, so those who are concerned can borrow one. There is also a service called an “ishidan kago” (stone-step palanquin) that carries visitors. Halfway up, you can find the “Gonin Hyakusho” selling candies, and you can stroke the sacred shrine horse. There are also attractions such as the Takahashi Yuichi Museum and the nationally designated Important Cultural Property “Asahi-sha.” Once you reach the top, the atmosphere feels different, and the view is superb with a strong sense of accomplishment. You can also buy charms available only there. Access is about a 15-minute walk from Kotoden Kotohira Station.