Sunday, June 10, 2012

Kotohira


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The draincover for the town of Kotohira in Kagawa on Shikoku, depicts pilgrims ascending the steps of Konpira-san.

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Known also as Kotohira-gu, or simply Konpira Shrine, it was a major pilgrimage site with millions coming from all over Japan.

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In total there are 1,368 steps to reach the highest shrine, but the vast majority nowadays only climb to the main shrine at 785 steps.

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Most of the way up is lined with souvenir shops and eating establishments.

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From the main shrine there are expansive views and I imagine the views from the top must be more impressive.

6 comments:

  1. I went to Kotohira last year in spring.
    The view from the top is actually not as breathtaking. Too many trees are in the way!

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  2. That last picture is really nice.

    You said it was a major pilgrimage site. Is nothing compared to what it used to be?

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  3. The town of Kotohira grew up providing lodgings and entertainment for the pilgrims and is still does though for tourists and not on the same scale. I believe it is still the most popular shrine on Shikoku though.

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  4. Wow, you're lucky to have gone on a quiet day. When I went there were hundreds of people there....

    I climbed that conical volcano in the last photo. It's called Mt. Iino (aka Sannuki-Fuji) and well worth a visit if you get a chance to go back

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  5. Hi Wes..... it was 7am ... it was busier when I came down.....

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  6. That's a pretty nice blog with nice photos and a huge collection of manhole covers ....

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