Kotohiragu Shrine Overview
Kotohira-gu Shrine, affectionately known throughout Japan as Konpira-san, is one of the country’s most revered and visited Shinto shrines, located in the town of Kotohira in Kagawa Prefecture on the island of Shikoku. Enshrined here is Okuninushi no Mikoto, a deity associated with seafaring, maritime safety and agriculture, making the shrine a historically important place of worship for sailors, fishermen and travelers. For centuries, those who could not make the journey in person sent their pets or livestock — or even money tucked into a coin purse tied to a dog’s collar — to be carried to the shrine by fellow travelers on their behalf, a practice known as Konpira-mairi.
The shrine is famous above all for its extraordinary stone staircase approach, which climbs the forested slopes of Mount Zozu to the main hall (Gohonsha) via 785 steps, and continues a further 583 steps to the inner shrine (Okusha) at the summit — 1,368 steps in total. The climb passes through cedar and pine forests, historic stone lanterns, souvenir stalls selling the shrine’s iconic yellow candy (shinkoseki candy) and a series of increasingly elevated viewpoints over the Sanuki Plain and the Seto Inland Sea.
Along the route, notable stops include the Shoin, a reception hall decorated with celebrated paintings by Maruyama Okyo, and the Ema-do, a hall lined with wooden votive tablets and maritime memorabilia including model ships and propellers donated by seafarers giving thanks for safe passage. The complex also contains a museum housing an important collection of art and historical artifacts associated with the shrine.
Best Times To Visit Kotohira-gu Shrine
Kotohira-gu can be visited year-round, though the season significantly affects both the comfort of the climb and the atmosphere of the shrine complex.
Spring (March to May) is one of the best times to visit. Cherry blossoms line the lower sections of the staircase approach in late March and early April, and the mild temperatures make the 785-step climb to the main hall considerably more manageable. The fresh green of new foliage along the wooded upper sections of the route adds to the seasonal beauty.
Autumn (October to November) is equally rewarding. The forested slopes of Mount Zozu take on vivid autumnal colors, and the cooler air makes the ascent comfortable. Clear autumn days frequently offer sweeping views of the Sanuki Plain and Seto Inland Sea from the upper precincts.
Winter (December to February) sees less visitors. Occasional light snowfall may cover the stone lanterns and torii gates, creating a particularly atmospheric scene. The cooler temperatures make the climb physically easier, though appropriate footwear is advised on potentially slippery steps.
Summer (June to August) is the most challenging season for the climb due to heat and humidity. Early morning visits are strongly recommended, as the forested sections of the approach provide some shade. The shrine’s annual summer festivals draw large crowds during this period.