Finally island-hopping to Shikoku, Japan! First stop: Kotohira-gu Shrine

#SeptemberDestinations2025 Finally island-hopping to Shikoku! Our first stop was Kotohira-gu Shrine, whose Omote-sankō approach is famously grueling! I wasn't brave enough to climb to the Hongu Shrine (785 steps), but my legs were already limp. I took a break and wanted to tackle the Oku-sha Shrine (1368 steps), but the trail seemed to be under maintenance, with a "No Standing Entry" sign! What a shame!!! Actually, I was secretly delighted at the time, as I was sweating profusely. No wonder shops along the way rented out bamboo walking sticks for pilgrims. Kotohira-gu Shrine, located in Kagawa, is a shrine built on the 521-meter-high Elephant Head Mountain. With over 1,000 years of history, it serves as the head shrine for nearly 600 Konpira-jinja shrines across Japan. Millions of pilgrims visit annually, making it a renowned tourist attraction in Shikoku. The main shrine is characterized by its stone steps, which total 785 steps to the main shrine and 1,368 steps to the Oku-shrine. It's recommended to be physically fit and wear comfortable clothing. A unique feature of the Edo period is the custom of having dogs perform shrine visits on behalf of their owners. These dogs, known as "Konpira-inus," would wear a "Konpira-inus" bag around their necks. A bronze statue of the Konpira-inus, dedicated to these dogs, is located on the 431st step. Be sure to take a look when you pass by! Also, since you're in Shikoku, you absolutely have to eat udon!