Plizio Visual Lab

Kotohira

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Kotohira is a historic town in Kagawa Prefecture, most famous for its grand shrine complex, Kotohira-gu, affectionately known as Konpira-san. Dedicated to the patron god of seafarers and sailors, it has been a popular pilgrimage site for centuries. Reaching the main shrine requires a significant climb of 785 stone steps, and for those seeking the ultimate challenge, the inner shrine (Okusha) lies at the top of 1,368 steps on the slopes of Mount Zozu. The path up the mountain is lined with souvenir shops, tea houses, and historical monuments. At the foot of the hill sits the Kanamaru-za, Japan's oldest surviving Kabuki theater, where visitors can explore the stage machinery and dressing rooms. The Kinokuni-ya Sake Museum is another local highlight, showcasing the traditional brewing methods that have flourished in the area for generations. The town's atmosphere is steeped in the spirit of Edo-period pilgrimage. Food-wise, Kotohira is another excellent spot to enjoy Sanuki Udon, with several local workshops where you can try making your own noodles to the beat of traditional music. The best time to visit is during the mild seasons of spring or autumn to avoid the summer humidity while climbing. Kotohira is conveniently accessible via a short train ride from Takamatsu, making it an essential stop for anyone exploring the cultural heritage of Shikoku.

Location: Japan
Top sights: Mt. Ino · Mt. Zozu · Mt. Kotohira
Nearby: Tadotsu (9 km)
Population: ~8.468 (2024)

Best time to visit & climate

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Avg °C	3	4	7	13	17	21	25	26	23	17	11	6
Rain mm	59	86	119	137	176	253	264	197	245	166	87	77

📋 Practical info

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Visiting

The Konpira-san shrine complex is open to the public. Visitors can explore the outdoor stone steps and shrine buildings, though some inner areas may have restrictions.

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Typical hours

The shrine is typically open during daylight hours. Exact opening times may vary by season, so it is advisable to check locally.

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Photography

Photography is generally allowed in outdoor areas and most shrine buildings. However, flash may be prohibited inside some halls; always respect signage.

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Time needed

Allow at least 2-3 hours to climb the 785 stone steps and explore the main shrines. The full circuit including upper shrines can take half a day.

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Combine with

Combine your visit with a stroll through Kotohira's traditional streets and other local temples.

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Getting there

Access by train to Kotohira Station on the JR Dosan Line, then a 15-minute walk to the shrine entrance. Alternatively, local buses run from the station.

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Insider tip

Start your climb early in the morning to avoid the heat and crowds. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes, as the steps are steep and numerous.

Geography

Population

8,468 (2024)

Coordinates

34.19212, 133.82126

Facts

1,368 steps to the top
Shrine of seafarers
Japan's oldest Kabuki theater
Kinokuni-ya Sake Museum
Views from Mount Zozu
Sanuki Udon cooking classes
Historic pilgrimage town
Golden lanterns

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Tadotsu9 km · SWExplore →

Mitoyo12 km · SExplore →

Iya Valley23 km · EExplore →

Naoshima Art Island27 km · NWExplore →

Takamatsu27 km · NWExplore →

Kurashiki Bikan Historical Quarter32 km · WExplore →

Shikokuchuo34 km · SEExplore →

Asakuchi37 km · SWExplore →

Route planner — Car & Motorhome

Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.

Start Destination Via (optional)

Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kotohira (15)

Mt. Ino 🌿 nature

Often referred to as Sanuki Fuji due to its symmetrical shape, Mt. Ino is a prominent peak near Kotohira.

Mt. Zozu 🌿 nature

Rising above Kotohira, Mt. Zozu is a culturally significant peak known for housing the famous Kotohira-gū shrine on its slopes.

Mt. Kotohira 🌿 nature

Mt. Kotohira is a notable scenic peak that forms the dramatic mountainous backdrop to the town of Kotohira.

Paintings by Maruyama Okyo 🏛 museum

This museum space in Kotohira is dedicated to exhibiting the elegant, historic brushwork paintings of Maruyama Ōkyo.

ACT 🏛 museum

ACT is a local museum in Kotohira showcasing specialized indoor exhibitions and cultural artifacts.

🕒 Mo-Tu,Th-Su 09:00-17:00; We off🆓

Sayabashi 📍 landmark

Sayabashi is a distinctive covered wooden bridge spanning the river in Kotohira, featuring a unique curved roof.

🕒 24/7

76 Konzō-ji ⛪ religious

Serving as Temple 76 on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Konzō-ji is a revered place of worship near Kotohira.

74 Kōyama-ji ⛪ religious

Kōyama-ji is a historic Buddhist sanctuary recognized as Temple 74 on the famous Shikoku Pilgrimage route.

71 Iyadani-ji ⛪ religious

Carved into a steep, rocky hillside, Iyadani-ji is a striking place of worship serving as Temple 71 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

Kotohira Shrine Museum 🏛 museum

This museum preserves and exhibits the rich collection of religious artifacts and art treasures belonging to the Kotohira Shrine.

🕒 Mo-Su 08:30-17:00

Konpira Kabuki 🎭 culture

Recognized as Japan's oldest surviving complete traditional playhouse, this historic theatre still hosts animated Kabuki performances.

🌐 konpirakabuki.jp

Sanuki Mannō Park 🌳 park

Opened on April 18, 1998, this expansive national park gives seasonal flower fields and recreational areas around the scenic Mannō Reservoir.

🌐 sanukimannopark.jp

New Reoma World 🎡 recreation

New Reoma World is a sprawling family theme park near Kotohira, featuring roller coasters, illuminations, and spirited seasonal parades.

🌐 newreomaworld.com

Okuyashiroizutama Shrine 📍 landmark

Located high on the mountain, this Shinto inner shrine requires a strenuous climb of over 1,300 stone steps to reach.

Bekkaku17 Kanno-ji 📍 landmark

Functioning as Temple 17 of the Shikoku Bekkaku Pilgrimage, Kanno-ji is a revered Buddhist site welcoming dedicated travelers.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

Kotohira: where is it located?

Kotohira is located in Japan.

Kotohira: what is there to see?

Highlights include Mt. Ino, Mt. Zozu, Mt. Kotohira.

Kotohira: when is the best time to visit?

The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.

Kotohira: why is it worth visiting?

Kotohira is a historic town in Kagawa Prefecture, most famous for its grand shrine complex, Kotohira-gu, affectionately known as Konpira-san.

View on map → The Top 50 Attractions → OpenStreetMap →

Kotohira

Best time to visit & climate