Kotohira-gu is a famous shrine in Kotohira, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, dedicated to Omononushi-no-Kami and Emperor Sutoku Tenno. It is one of the most important shrines in Japan, especially known as the patron saint of maritime safety and sailors.
### Main Features:
1. **Walking route**:
- From the foot of the mountain to the main shrine, you need to climb 785 stone steps, and to the Oku shrine, you need to climb 1368 steps. There are many rest stops and teahouses along the way for worshippers to rest.
2. **Architecture and landscape**:
- The architectural style of the main shrine and the Oku shrine is simple, and the surrounding natural landscape is beautiful, especially the cherry blossoms in spring and the red leaves in autumn, which attract a large number of tourists.
3. **Cultural significance**:
- Kotohira-gu has a high status in Japanese culture, and many literary works and artistic creations are based on it.
4. **Treasure House**:
- There is a treasure house in the shrine, which displays precious artifacts related to the history and culture of the shrine.
### Visiting Information:
- **Address**: 892-1, Kotohira-cho, Nakatado-gun, Kagawa Prefecture
- **Opening Hours**: Usually from early morning to evening, the specific time varies with the season.
- **Transportation**: It takes about 1 hour to reach Kotohira-cho from Takamatsu City by JR train or bus, and then walk to the shrine.
### Tips:
- Wear comfortable shoes, as climbing the stone steps requires some physical strength.
- Teahouses along the way offer local snacks and drinks, such as dango and matcha, which are worth a try.
Kotohira-gu is not only a religious place, but also a good place to experience Japanese nature and culture.