Kotohira-gu, also known as Kompira shrine, is a popular touristic spot among Japanese in Kagawa prefecture, Shikoku. And the ancient structure, dedicated to seamanship, is also reputed as one of the harshest climb among the country numerous temples and shrines, with a total of 1368 steps to reach Izutama shrine. Kotohira is of course one of the 100 Heisei landscapes, and features surprisingly a bunch of dogs, two horses and an elephant…
How to get there?
The climb starts about 15 minutes walking from Kotohira train station, on the same line as Okayama‘s one in Honshu. Two main options for the journey: either by JR Nanpu limited express (50 minutes, direct, about 3000 yen) or with local JR trains (1h30/2h, about 1500 yen, with a transfer). Both approach are fully covered by the JR pass.
Some direct buses are also running from Takamatsu airport. About 50 minutes and 1500 yen per person.