Kotohira Shrine (Konpira-san)
A sacred Shinto shrine famous for its 1,368 steps, offering spiritual fulfillment and breathtaking views.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Kotohira Shrine (Konpira-san)
Best Time
Beat the crowds and heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sacred Shinto shrine famous for its 1,368 steps, offering spiritual fulfillment and breathtaking views.
"Worth every single stair! The view was nice and the air is nice. I feel very relaxed when I climb up."
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the 785+ steps! Prioritize comfort for your climb.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. You can buy more on the way up.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Staircase
Approach to Kotohira Shrine
Ascend the iconic 785 steps to the main shrine, a true test of endurance with rewarding views.
Main Shrine & Observatory
Main Shrine Complex
Reach the main shrine for impressive architecture and a breathtaking panoramic view of the surrounding landscape.
Izutama Shrine & Tengu Omamori
Inner Shrine (Oku-sha)
For the determined, climb an additional 538 steps to find the Izutama Shrine and its sought-after black Tengu omamori.
Shrine Approach Shops
Path leading to the shrine
Explore charming shops selling local snacks, souvenirs, and unique omamori along the bustling approach.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Conquer the Steps: Pace Yourself!
Beyond the Climb: Local Flavors & Finds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the 785+ steps! Prioritize comfort for your climb.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. You can buy more on the way up.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! A round trip to the main shrine can take 1.5 hours.
🚖 Taxi to Step 300
Consider a taxi to the 300-step mark if you're not used to strenuous exercise.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Essential for the 785+ steps! Prioritize comfort for your climb.
💧 Stay Hydrated
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months. You can buy more on the way up.
⏰ Allow Ample Time
Don't rush! A round trip to the main shrine can take 1.5 hours.
🚖 Taxi to Step 300
Consider a taxi to the 300-step mark if you're not used to strenuous exercise.
🐶 Dog Omamori Available
Bless your furry friend with a special dog omamori at the main shrine.
✨ Try the Coin Float
Test your luck by trying to make a coin float in the pot at the main shrine.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Kotohira Shrine for its impressive climb and rewarding views, with many finding the journey to the main shrine (785 steps) a significant accomplishment. The unique omamori and the charming shops along the approach add to the experience. However, the extensive number of steps can be challenging for some, and reaching the inner shrine requires considerable endurance.
"🎉 Congrats! You’ve made it to the main shrine after conquering 785 stairs (around 30–45 minutes of climbing). The shrine itself is impressive, and the view from the observatory deck is absolutely worth the effort.
Here you’ll find a limited selection of omamori, but there’s something unique—a dog omamori 🐶, perfect for blessing your furry friend.
But wait… looking for the special black Tengu omamori? 👺
NOT HERE! To get that, you’ll need to push on and climb another 538 stairs (about 20–30 minutes) to reach Izutama Shrine. Good luck on the next leg of your journey! 💪⛩️"
Niko Z
"The shrine was built in Edo era, climb up 785 stone steps to the shrine. Nonstop climbing takes about at least 1 hour and 30 mins for round trip. (A little bit stop for praying)
Not recommend for small children and elderly."
Badtzmaru Cheers
"Impressive shrine, I only visited the main shrine at about 700+ steps which is about half of the 1368 steps. Majority of the stairs are surrounded by trees, it gives a mystical feeling.
At the main shrine, there are Omikuji (fortune telling paper) and charms available for sale. There's also a pot where people try to make their coin float. I think it means good luck for those who manage to successfully float their coin.
I did not go to the inner shrine as there was not enough time and I was getting really hungry. Lucky for me, there's a cafe on the way down. I think the cafe is called Kamitsubaki.
On the way up at about the 100 steps range there are many shops selling snacks and souvenir. I got a Ramune that I saw in Japanese anime but I was unable to open it. A kind local helped me out and taught me the way.
At 金刀比羅宮 大門, about 300 steps in, there is an area where local people setup portable stalls to sell stuff. There was a kind lady that gave me yuzu hard candy (ame) every time I passed by😊, even though I did not buy anything.
There is an area for feeding birds, some people brought seeds and the birds seem to really like it. They will fly back and forth between the hand and the tree to eat the seeds.
Visited on 31 Mar 2025"
De Xing Ong
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Kotohira Shrine is accessible via Kotohira Station. From major cities like Okayama, you can take a JR train to Kotohira Station. The shrine is a walk from the station, with shops lining the approach.
Yes, there are parking lots available near the base of the shrine. However, it's often recommended to use public transport due to potential congestion.
Taxis are available and can take you part of the way up, around the 300-step mark, which can be helpful for those with mobility concerns or who want to conserve energy.
The most common way is by climbing the stone steps. For those seeking an easier ascent, consider the taxi option to a higher point.
Yes, Kotohira Shrine is known to be dog-friendly, and you can even purchase special dog omamori.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance to Kotohira Shrine itself is free. However, there may be fees for specific activities or to enter certain buildings within the complex.
Kotohira Shrine is generally open from 6:00 AM to 6:00 PM daily. It's always a good idea to check for any seasonal or event-related changes.
No, tickets are not required for general entry to Kotohira Shrine as it is free to enter.
There are 785 stone steps to reach the main shrine complex. 
To reach the inner shrine, known as Oku-sha or Izutama Shrine, you'll need to climb a total of 1,368 steps.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Climbing to the main shrine (785 steps) can take 30-45 minutes, depending on your pace. Reaching the inner shrine (1,368 steps) can take an additional 20-30 minutes. A round trip to the main shrine is estimated at 1.5 hours.
You'll find impressive shrine architecture, beautiful views from the observatory, shops selling local goods, and opportunities to purchase omamori (charms).
Yes, there are shops and cafes along the approach where you can rest, buy refreshments, and enjoy the atmosphere.
Omamori are Japanese amulets or charms sold at shrines and temples. Kotohira Shrine offers various types, including a special dog omamori and the sought-after black Tengu omamori at the inner shrine.
The climb is considered challenging, especially the latter half. It's a true test of endurance, but many find the sense of achievement rewarding.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The approach to the shrine is lined with shops and restaurants offering local specialties, including udon, snacks, and souvenirs.
Yes, there are cafes located on the way down from the shrine, providing a place to rest and refuel. One notable cafe is Kamitsubaki.
While not explicitly detailed, the area is known for its local cuisine. Udon is a popular dish in Kagawa Prefecture, and you might find it offered.
Absolutely! The shops along the shrine's approach offer a wide variety of souvenirs, from local crafts to snacks.
Vending machines are common in Japan and can likely be found along the approach, offering drinks and snacks.
📸 📸 Photography
The top of the 785 steps offers a great vantage point. The main shrine complex itself, with its traditional architecture, is also very photogenic.
Yes, the observatory deck at the main shrine provides spectacular panoramic views of the surrounding landscape, making it a prime spot for photos.
Early morning or late afternoon can offer beautiful lighting and fewer crowds, enhancing your photography experience.
Photography rules can vary within shrine complexes. It's best to observe any posted signs or ask for clarification to ensure you're respecting the sacred space.
The long, tree-lined stone staircase itself is a unique and mystical photo opportunity. The shops and their colorful displays also offer interesting shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚶♀️ Solo Travelers & Hikers
🧘♀️ Spiritual Seekers
+1 The long climb is often seen as a pilgrimage, a way to clear the mind and connect with oneself. The main shrine and the inner shrine offer spaces for prayer and reflection. Obtaining Omikuji (fortune-telling papers) and omamori (charms) can add to the spiritual experience. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Epic Climb: Understanding the Steps
+1 This climb is not just a physical challenge but a pilgrimage, with many visitors finding a sense of accomplishment and spiritual fulfillment upon reaching their goal. The stairs are often lined with ancient trees, creating a mystical and serene atmosphere. Along the way, you'll encounter numerous shops selling local snacks, drinks, and souvenirs, offering opportunities to rest and refuel.
Reaching the main shrine rewards climbers with impressive architecture and panoramic views. The journey to the inner shrine is even more demanding but offers the chance to obtain unique omamori, such as the coveted black Tengu omamori.
Spiritual Significance and Omamori
+1 It's considered a powerful spiritual site, attracting many visitors seeking blessings and good fortune. The shrine's history dates back to the 8th century, adding to its profound cultural and religious importance. Visitors can purchase a variety of omamori (charms) at the shrine. These amulets are believed to offer protection and good luck. Notably, Kotohira Shrine offers a special dog omamori, perfect for blessing beloved pets.
Beyond omamori, the shrine complex often features activities like Omikuji (fortune-telling papers) and a pot where visitors can try to make coins float, a practice believed to bring good luck.
The Culinary and Shopping Experience
Don't miss the chance to try unique drinks like Ramune, a popular Japanese soda often featured in anime, or enjoy a sweet treat from one of the many vendors.
Shopping for souvenirs is a key part of the experience. You can find everything from traditional crafts to local delicacies. The friendly vendors often add to the welcoming atmosphere, with some even offering small treats like yuzu hard candy to passersby.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit