3.1.2 Kotohiragu Shrine, Kotohira

Dedicated to the guardian god of the sea, the ancient Kotohiragu Shrine in Konpira is nationally renowned. Every year many pilgrims make the journey to Konpira, where reaching the main shrine requires a hike up 785 stone stairs, or 1368 to the farthest shrine.
Visitors to the shrine also enjoy the nearby kabuki theater “Kanamaru-za”, the oldest of its type in Japan. Konpira onsen is another popular spot.