Kotohira-Gu Shrine

Perched on the slopes of Mt. Zozu in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture, Kotohira-gu Shrine (affectionately known as Konpira-san) was an important pilgrimage site during the Edo period, when pilgrims came from across Japan to honor the guardian deity of sailors and fishermen. The journey was known as “Konpira Mairi,” a tradition that continues today.
Reaching the main shrine (Gohon-gu) requires climbing 785 stone steps, and the full journey to the inner shrine (Izutama-jinja Shrine) means ascending all 1,368 steps. Along the way, you’ll encounter smaller shrines, guardian statues, and rest stops. At the top, though, you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views of the Sanuki Plain and the Seto Inland Sea.
The shrine also preserves important cultural treasures including Edo era artwork inside the Omote-Shoin Art Museum, a reception hall decorated with screen paintings by Maruyama Okyo, a renowned artist from the 18th century. The nearby Oku-Shoin building is only opened on special occassions, but it houses screen paintings by Ito Jakuchu, another celebrated painter of the era. Kotohira-gu Shrine is also host to seasonal events, like kemari (an ancient ceremonial ball game) and cherry blossom and autumn foliage festivals in the spring and fall.