Kotohira-gu Shrine, Kotohira-cho, Japan
This is a popular shrine, commonly known as Konpira-san. It is the head shrine of “Kotohira” or “Konpira” shrines in Japan and has been worshiped since ancient times as “the God of the Sea”.
There is an extremely long staircase, consisting of 1,368 steps. The area around the shrine is crowded with many shops such as cafes, teahouses, souvenir shops and udon restaurants. You can rent a walking stick and go for a stroll or take a ride in a “kago” palanquin and enjoy the sights as you are carried around.
At the mid-way point, you will find the Main Shrine.
The shrine is dedicated to many gods including the gods of agriculture, livestock, medicine and marine safety. There are wonderful paintings on the ceiling of the main shrine. On certain festival days you can see the priests and shrine maidens dancing in traditional clothes. You can also purchase a beautiful Kofuku no Kiiroi Omamori (Yellow Charm of Happiness).
Epic Japan Culture & Adventure Route © Monika Newbound
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