Shikoku Information

Area：

  • Kagawa

Category：

  • Sightseeing Spots
  • History and Culture

Kotohiragu

Kotohiragu

A sacred climb rewarded with sweeping views of the Sanuki Plain.

Affectionately known as Kompira-san, KOTOHIRA-Gu is an ancient shrine revered nationwide as the home of guardian deities of the sea. Climb the stone steps of the main approach to the solemn Gohon-Gu main shrine and enjoy views over the Sanuki Plain.

Three highlights of KOTOHIRA-Gu

  1. 1. Climb 785 stone steps to Gohon-GuSet out from the main approach lined with souvenir shops and teahouses, enjoying the changing scenery step by step on the way to the main shrine.
  2. 2. Look out over the Sanuki PlainAt the top of the steps, an expansive view opens across Kotohira and toward Sanuki Fuji.
  3. 3. Continue along the sacred path to Oku-ShaClimb another 583 steps—1,368 in total—to reach Izutama Shrine (Oku-Sha). Allow plenty of time and energy for the full pilgrimage.

Quick access guide

By car
About 15 minutes by car from Zentsuji IC on the Takamatsu Expressway to the main approach area.
There is no visitor parking within the shrine grounds. Please use a paid parking lot nearby.
By public transportation
About a 20-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station to the entrance of the main approach.
About a 15-minute walk from Kotoden-Kotohira Station to the entrance of the main approach.

*Allow approximately one hour to climb to Gohon-Gu. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Nearby attractions

  • ・Kanamaruza (Konpira Grand Theatre)Japan’s oldest surviving playhouse preserves Edo-period theater architecture and stage machinery. Combine it with your shrine visit to discover Kotohira’s history and culture.
  • ・Sanuki Manno National Government ParkA national park with seasonal flower fields, spacious lawns, and play equipment. It is an ideal place to relax in nature after visiting the shrine.
  • ・Nakatsu Bansho-enA daimyo garden associated with the Marugame Domain, featuring a strolling pond garden and an art museum. Recommended when continuing from Kotohira toward Marugame.

*Please check official sources for current opening and transportation information before visiting.

Details

Area Kagawa prefecture
Address 892-1 Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa 766-8501
TEL +81-87-775-2121
FAX +81-87-775-2125
E-mail -

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Basic Information

Open hours 07:00–17:00
Closed regularly Open year-round
Admission fee Free
Parking lot Cars: Not available ｜ Buses: Not available
Free Wi-Fi Yes
Toilet Yes
Recommended season Spring / Summer / Autumn / Winter

A special experience found only here

The main shrine features magnificent ceiling paintings, and during festivals visitors may see shrine priests and miko attendants in traditional dress performing ceremonial dances. Those seeking to continue farther can climb all the steps to Izutama Shrine (Oku-Sha), where the view from an elevation of 421 meters is spectacular.

Yellow Charm of Happiness

This vivid yellow charm carries wishes for safe travels and happiness in everyday life.

Price JPY 800
Hours 09:00 - 17:00
Closed -
View official information about the Yellow Charm of Happiness

Izutama Shrine (Oku-Sha)

At the end of the long stone stairway, this secluded shrine offers a tranquil atmosphere and views over the Sanuki Plain.

Price -
Hours 09:00 - 16:30
Closed -
View official information about Izutama Shrine (Oku-Sha)

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