1368 Steps to the Top – Kotohira – November 25th

We’re still enjoying the nice fall weather here in Japan, of course the days have grown colder but there is still sun and still a lot to see.

Last week I had to teach a coverage lesson in another city. The city was Kotohira, and I was pleasantly surprised by what I saw when I got off the train. The city, from what I learned at the station, was actually quite famous and is home to a famous shrine. I made the decision then to return to Kotohira on my next day off.

On Sunday the 25^th, I hopped back onto the train and made my way to Kotohira and I was lucky that it was a bright sunny day.

My first stop on the way to the shrine was Takadoro. It was built in 1860 and is Japan’s tallest lantern at 27m. When lit the signal was used to guide ships along the Inland Sea.

Takadoro

From there it was the start of the climb to the inner shrine of Konpirasan. The full journey from the base to the inner shrine – Okusha Shrine – is 1368 steps. I made it all the way to Okusha but before getting there I took some time to explore a few sites on the way.

As it is peak autumn colour viewing time I once again captured photos of the bright yellows, reds and oranges of the leaves.

My next stop was at the Asahi Shrine. It is located between the main gate and main shrine – Kotohira-gu. This meant to be a quick rest before continuing upwards. Here I saw these large cauldrons. On closer inspection they were filled with water and money. The aim is to slowly lower in a 1 yen coin and hope that it floats. (This shows just how light the 1 yen coin is and the amazing surface tension of water).

Floating 1 yen coins

After wishing that I had a 1 yen coin on me, but finding none I made the next journey to the top of 785 steps. This journey takes you to the main shrine of Kotohira. Looking out from the mountainside you can see the Inland sea, Kotohira, Marugame and Sakaide. The shrine itself is large and yet it seems to have almost a compact shape. It’s one of most beautifully shaped shrines that I have seen.

Main Shrine

Main Shrine

Here I took another break. I also found this cutie.

Kawaii

 From that point it was another 583 steps to the inner shrine. I made it all the way to the top and once again got a great view of the city below. The inner shrine also compared to the main was bright and colourful, a beautiful vermillion that stands out amongst the green and grey. 

Then it was all the way down with a quick stop at Kanamaruza Theatre. It was built in 1835 and is Japan’s oldest wooden Kabuki theatre. Even today Japan’s leading kabuki actors perform shows.

Then it was back to Niihama after a wonderful afternoon.

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