📕 Goshuin from visitors
Kotohiragu (Kotohira Grand Shrine)
〒766-8501 香川県仲多度郡琴平町８９２−１
Located on the mid-slopes of Mount Zanto in Kotohira Town, Nakatado District, Kagawa Prefecture, this shrine enshrines Omononushi-no-Kami as the main deity and Emperor Sutoku as a secondary deity. Historically known affectionately as 'Konpira-san,' it is revered nationwide and serves as the head shrine for approximately 600 Kotohira and Kotohira shrines across Japan. As a deity of the sea and guardian of maritime traffic, it has long been deeply venerated by fishermen, sailors, and those involved in maritime affairs. Before the Meiji-era separation of Shinto and Buddhism, it was known as 'Konpira Daigongen' and was under the administration of the Shogoin temple within Zanto-san Matsuo-ji. The pilgrimage route features 785 stone steps to the main hall (Hon-gu) and extends to 1,368 steps including the inner sanctuary (Okusha). Known for its steepness, the 'Konpira Pilgrimage' was a dream journey for commoners during the Edo period, celebrated as a sacred site where one should make at least one visit in their lifetime.
Enshrined deities
Omononushi-no-Okami, Emperor Sutoku
History
Affectionately known as 'Konpira-san,' the shrine is famous for the 785 long stone steps leading to the main hall. It has long been worshipped as a guardian deity of maritime traffic and fishing.
Blessings
It is believed to bring prosperity in business and the fulfillment of wishes.
What visitors say
The stone steps continue for 785 steps to the main hall and 1,368 steps to the inner sanctuary. The latter half includes steep sections that require physical stamina, but climbers feel a sense of achievement as the scenery opens up with each step. The approach is lined with souvenir shops, and walking sticks can be rented. The shrine grounds are enveloped in refreshing air, and visitors can enjoy meals in the surrounding area after worship.
Opening hours
- Monday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Tuesday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Wednesday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Thursday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Friday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Saturday: 6:00 – 18:00
- Sunday: 6:00 – 18:00
Annual events & festivals
- January 1 onwardHatsumode (First Shrine Visit of the Year)
The first shrine visit of the year at 'Konpira-san'. Celebrate the New Year at the top of the 785 stone steps.
'Konpira-san' is beloved as the guardian deity of the sea. A flight of 785 stone steps leads to the main shrine, and visitors climb these long steps during Hatsumode to celebrate the New Year.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・785 stone steps
- ・Guardian deity of the sea
- ・Lively atmosphere on the approach
- April 10Ou Ka Matsuri (Cherry Blossom Festival)
A spring festival where a procession, led by large skewers of cherry blossoms and maple leaves, advances to the main shrine.
On April 10, a spring festival is held featuring a procession that advances to the main shrine, led by large skewers adorned with cherry blossoms and maple leaves.
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Procession of cherry blossoms
- ・Springtime approach
- October 9-11Reidaisai (Annual Grand Festival)
The most important festival at Konpira Grand Shrine. A sacred procession where the mikoshi (portable shrine) crosses the stone steps.
From October 9 to 11, the most important festival of the year is held. A sacred procession takes place where the mikoshi carrying the deity descends the stone steps to the temporary shrine ('Oshitaji') and then returns to the main shrine ('Oagari').
HighlightsSee details on the official site ›- ・Most important annual festival
- ・Mikoshi sacred procession (Oshitaji and Oagari)
- ・Procession across the stone steps
Dates can shift from year to year. Please check the official information before you go.
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