Kotohira-gu

A part of the Kotohira town in the Kagawa Prefecture, Kotohira-gu, also known as Kompirasan, is a striking, albeit lesser known Shinto temple in Japan. Often referred to as the ‘Shrine of a thousand steps,’ it was founded in the 1st century, and is located some 500 m below the summit of Mount Zozu. Prior to the Meiji Era, Kotohira gu used to be a Buddhist place of worship, but morphed into a Shinto shrine during the Muromachi period. With national treasures, a tiny garden and a hall dedicated to the Sun God, the Hōmotsu-kan and Shoin sections of the temple are noteworthy. Since there is an overwhelming number of stone steps that need to be climbed (1368 to be precise), only the fittest of visitors can see this beauty. The Sake shops and restaurants lining the approach, however, act as the perfect respite from all that strenuous ascending and descending. For those with disposable money, you could hire a ridiculously expensive palanquin that will take you to the main hall.

The approach to the temple is a 15 minute walk from the stations of Kotoden Kotohira and JR Kotohira. You could alternatively take a bus from these stations right up to the temple gates. The complex is open from 8.30 am to 4.30 pm, and you will have to pay around 800 Yen as an entrance fee.