Kotohira Travel Guide

A town in Kagawa prefecture to the southwest of Takamatsu, Kotohira's importance centers around its celebrated, hilltop shrine Kompira-san. The ascent to the shrine counts some 1368 steps - a fact much touted by Japanese. From the main hall at the top of the climb, visitors can catch a view out over the Inland Sea (at least on a clear day). Apart from the shrine, Kotohira also boasts Japan's oldest Kabuki playhouse, Kanamaru-za, built in 1835. If one is visiting in April, there is a chance of seeing a performance.