Known as a power spot that “everyone should visit at least once in their lifetime,” it was something I definitely couldn’t miss! But the moment I saw flight after flight of stairs, I honestly wanted to turn back.
However, when I saw several people in suits and dress shoes, and even some in high heels, continuing to climb one step at a time, it suddenly didn’t seem so difficult, so I decided to keep pushing onward.
After quite a struggle, I finally reached the Main Shrine! After praying, I went to the observation deck next to it and took in the magnificent view. At that moment, all the breathless climbing felt worth it.
As for the Inner Shrine, I really couldn’t make it up there this time. I’ll have to leave that regret behind and try again if I get another chance.
I highly recommend the rice crackers sold at Honke Funafunedo along the approach, as well as the freshly baked rice crackers at Kinokuniya Honten.
Kotohiragu Shrine | Review by 河豚愛旅行
Other Reviews by 河豚愛旅行
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Zenigata Sunae "Kan'ei Tsuho" (Kotohiki Park)
Zenigata Sunae "Kan'ei Tsuho" is a giant sand drawing created on the white sand of Ariake Beach in Kotohiki Park, a scenic spot in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture. Modeled after an Edo-period coin, the sand drawing measures Approx. 122 m east to west, Approx. 90 m north to south, and Approx. 345 m around, and is said to have been created overnight during the Edo period to welcome a feudal lord.
It’s about a 15-minute walk from JR Kan-onji Station. You can also take a bus, but service is infrequent. I recommend stopping by the century-old Hakueido Yanagimachi Main Store to buy some wagashi. The best place to view the Zenigata Sand Drawing is the mountaintop observation deck in Kotohiki Park. It’s also illuminated at night, so I’d like to come back for another chance to see the giant coin in a different way.
I also recommend visiting the World Coin Museum in Kotohiki Park, which displays banknotes and coins from many countries. The Masayoshi Ohira Memorial Museum is upstairs, making it a unique experience. -
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Yashima
Yashima is located in the northeastern part of Takamatsu City. It is designated as Setonaikai (Seto Inland Sea) National Park, as well as National Historic Site and Natural Monument.
You can take a bus from Kotoden Yashima or JR Yashima Station to the top of Mount Yashima. If you’re in good shape, you can also hike up the trail near Yashima Station.
The summit of Yashima is a famous battlefield from the Genpei War, with the “Pond of Blood” being especially well known. If you come here, be sure to visit Yashima-ji Temple.
If you have time, I also highly recommend watching the sunset from the observation deck, but be sure to check the bus schedule. Currently, buses run at night only on Fridays, Saturdays, and the days before public holidays. We just missed it this time, so we’ll definitely include it in our itinerary next time. -
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Katsurahama Beach
Located at the tip of the Urado Peninsula in Kochi City, this scenic, crescent-shaped beach stretches between Cape Ryuzu and Cape Ryuo and is known for its pine grove, sandy shore, and ocean views. One of Kochi Prefecture's most famous tourist attractions, it is also popular for its large bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, who played an active role in the closing years of the Edo period.
A must-visit for fans of Ryoma Sakamoto. Katsurahama Park has a statue of Ryoma overlooking the Pacific Ocean. You can walk to Cape Ryuo for views of the Pacific, visit Watatsumi Shrine and Hayataka Shrine, or sit at the Motohama Rest Area, gaze at the sea, and clear your mind. On your way back, stop by Katsurahama Umi no Terrace to buy souvenirs from around Kochi or dine at one of the nearby restaurants.
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