Konpira Shrine | “Konpira-san” in Kagawa, the Power Spot You Must Visit at Least Once in Your Life

Konpira Shrine (Koto-Hira-gu) in Konpira Town, Nakatado District, Kagawa Prefecture, is a shrine known as "Konpira-san." Famous for its 785-step long staircase and the numerous restaurants and souvenir shops lining both sides of the approach, it attracts many tourists on holidays. It has also been a filming location for movies such as Tora-san's Loves: Tora-san's Engagement, Setouchi Boys' Baseball Team, and Kinako, which has drawn many movie fans. This article introduces the history and charm of Konpira Shrine, a popular power spot, along with access information and recommended points!

What is Konpira Shrine (Konpira-san)?

Konpira Shrine, located on the mountainside of Mount Zozu, is a shrine dedicated to the sea god, affectionately known as "Konpira-san." The main deities of the shrine are Ohmononushi-no-Kami and Emperor Sutoku.

The long stone staircase leading to the shrine's main hall consists of 785 steps from the approach to the main hall. It takes about an hour to climb the 785 steps, starting from the first step.

On the 1368th step, deep in the mountains, stands the "Ikon Shrine (Okusha)," which enshrines the founder of the Konpira sect of the Kōbō Daishi.

The Shōin, Asahi Shrine, Shikyaku Gate, and many other cultural properties are designated as important national cultural assets. The treasure hall displays top-class artworks and cultural properties, including the famous sliding door paintings by Maruyama Ōkyo in the "Omoteshōin" and the "Wooden Eleven-faced Kannon Standing Statue," which was created during the Heian period as a single carved wood piece.

History of Konpira Shrine

There are two main origins of Konpira Shrine.
One is based on the belief that Ohmononushi-no-Kami built a temporary palace on Mount Zozu, which led to the creation of the "Kotohira Shrine." Later, influenced by the "honji suijaku" theory, a syncretic belief system blending Shinto and Buddhism, it merged with the Buddhist deity Kōbō Daishi, and the shrine came to be known as Konpira Daikengō.
The other origin comes from the Matsuo-ji Temple, said to have been on Mount Zozu, where a guardian shrine dedicated to Kōbō Daishi existed. It is believed that a Shugendō practitioner, En-no-Ozunu, encountered a spiritual manifestation of Konpira's deity during his ascent there.

Konpira Shrine's Famous 785 Long Steps

It's often said that the stairs of Konpira Shrine are long, but do you know exactly how many steps there are? The stairs of Konpira Shrine have a total of 785 steps! The journey may feel as challenging as a mountain hike, but along the way, you will find numerous spots with historical sites and cultural assets that give a sense of Showa-era nostalgia.

Take your time, enjoy the view, and rest as you progress—you’re sure to enjoy it.
The shrine also offers free walking sticks for visitors, so if you start to feel tired, don’t hesitate to ask for one.

In the back approach, you’ll find cherry blossoms in spring, azaleas in early summer, and autumn leaves in the fall. Taking photos while enjoying the changing seasons is a wonderful way to experience the shrine. While the path can be challenging for those with bad knees or small children, the sense of accomplishment when you reach the top is well worth it, so be sure to try it.

The "Stone Step Basket" Experience Now Unavailable

Konpira Shrine was also known for the "Stone Step Basket," which had a 50-year history. The beloved actor, Kiyoshi Atsumi, known by his nickname "Tora-san" and star of the movie Tora-san, also rode it. The stone step basket was featured in many films and anime. Visitors expressed their sadness when the stone step basket service was discontinued on January 26, 2020.

Main Shrine Housing Ohmononushi-no-Kami

After climbing the 785 steps, you'll reach the Main Shrine, which houses Ohmononushi-no-Kami. The shrine sits at an elevation of 251 meters and features a grand structure with a Taisha-style architecture and cypress bark roofing. The main deity, Ohmononushi-no-Kami, is renowned, but Emperor Sutoku is also enshrined here. The deity is associated with agriculture, industry, medicine, and many other virtues, but is especially revered as the god of the sea.

The shrine is an ancient spot, said to have been founded before the Taika Reforms, although it was rebuilt in 1889. Despite the reconstruction, the long-standing history of the shrine can still be felt today. There's an observation deck on the northwest river, where, if the weather is clear, you can enjoy stunning views of the Seto Ohashi Bridge and other scenic spots in Shikoku. The breathtaking views from the top will surely make the long climb worthwhile.

For Those Confident in Their Stamina, Try Reaching the Okusha!

As mentioned, Konpira Shrine has 785 steps, but that’s not the highest point. The 785 steps are from the entrance to the Main Shrine. To reach the Okusha (the inner shrine), you’ll need to climb an additional 1,368 steps.

Once you reach the observation deck of the main hall, you might feel satisfied with the incredible view and be tempted to head back. However, if you still have the energy, challenge yourself to reach the Okusha. You might find that the more effort you put in, the greater the benefits you will receive. If you reach the top, you’ll experience an unparalleled sense of achievement and satisfaction. It’s this sense of accomplishment that makes the shrine a popular power spot, no matter how tough the stairs may seem.

Delicious Gourmet Food Along the Approach to Konpira Shrine

Konpira Shrine is famous for its long staircase, but in fact, the gourmet food along the approach to the shrine is also very impressive. It might be a good idea to visit just to enjoy the delicious food, without even stopping by the shrine.

Some of the famous food items include "Kamatama Soft," "Goshiki Mochi," "Kyu-Man," and "Shoyu Udon." From snacks you can easily munch on to hearty meals, there’s no shortage of options, so you’ll never have trouble finding something to eat.

If you overeat, you can always climb up to the main hall afterward, or conversely, enjoy a sweet treat as a reward after reaching the main hall. While there aren’t many Western-style options, the shops along the approach provide an authentic taste of old Japan, which will surely satisfy you.

Konpira Shrine’s Classic Souvenir: "Kamiyo-Ame" Sold by the "Gonin Hyakusho"

If you’re unsure about what to buy as a souvenir from Konpira Shrine, I recommend the "Kamiyo-Ame" (Kamiyo candy) sold by "Gonin Hyakusho." Kamiyo-Ame has been a specialty for a long time, and only five candy shops inside the shrine grounds, located past the 365th step of the stone staircase near the main gate, are authorized to sell them.
These five candy shops are collectively known as "Gonin Hyakusho."

The shops are marked by five large white umbrellas. They are open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM and are open every day of the year, so you can visit anytime to buy some.

While udon has become a well-known specialty of Kagawa Prefecture, it might be a bit challenging to take it home as a souvenir. On the other hand, candy is easy to carry and makes a delightful gift for both the buyer and the recipient. There are also many other local specialties and original souvenirs, so it’s fun to browse through them as well.

Access to Konpira Shrine

By Public Transportation

By Train
Get off at JR Kotohira Station on the Dosan Line, about a 20-minute walk (60 minutes by direct limited express from JR Okayama Station via the Seto Ohashi Line)
Get off at Kotoden Kotohira Station on the Takamatsu Kotohira Electric Railway, about a 15-minute walk (60 minutes from Takamatsu Chikko Station)

By Air
50 minutes by car from Takamatsu Airport
Sendai Airport → Takamatsu Airport: 95 minutes
Haneda Airport (Tokyo) → Takamatsu Airport: 70 minutes
Kagoshima Airport → Takamatsu Airport: 75 minutes
Naha Airport → Takamatsu Airport: 110 minutes

By Car / Rental Car
There is no parking available at Konpira Shrine, so you should park at a paid parking lot or coin-operated parking within the town and walk to the shrine.
If you wish to use the café and restaurant "Shin-Tsubaki" within the shrine grounds, you can park at the "Shin-Tsubaki Parking Lot" located at the 500th step of the stone staircase.

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Konpira Shrine | “Konpira-san” in Kagawa, the Power Spot You Must Visit at Least Once in Your Life