What this area is like
Kotohira-gu, known as Konpira-san, is reached by 785 stone steps to the main hall, or 1,368 to the inner shrine. The town has the Kanamaru-za, Japan’s oldest kabuki theatre.
Plan your visit
Allow about an hour up and down to the main hall; bamboo walking sticks are rented at shops.
Choose your next step
Places to see in this area
Kotohiragu (Konpira-san)
A shrine to the guardian of seafarers, reached by 785 stone steps to the main hall about 251 m up, with views over the Sanuki plain.
- Access
- About 30 minutes on foot (including the steps) from JR Kotohira Station.
- Hours
- 6:00–18:00.
- Fee
- Free.
- Address
- 892-1 Kotohira, Nakatado District, Kagawa
Shops at the foot of the steps lend walking sticks. Bring cash for amulets and snacks.
How to plan your time here
- Climb in the cool of the morning, then try udon in the town below.
- Kotohira is about an hour from Takamatsu by JR or the Kotoden railway.
Information checked 26 October 2026. Plans are JapaLens editorial suggestions, not on-site reviews. Hours and fees can change; check the official page before you go.