Kagawa
- Spot
- Kotohira-gu Shrine（Konpira-san）
Kotohira-gu Shrine (Konpira-san) is a revered shrine dedicated to the guardian deity of maritime safety. Visitors ascend 785 stone steps to reach the main shrine and 1,368 steps to reach the inner shrine, which offers breathtaking views of Shikoku’s mountains and the Seto Inland Sea. The shrine holds special significance for those connected to the sea, praying for safe voyages. The lively path to the shrine is lined with shops selling local specialties like Sanuki udon, allowing visitors to savor the region's flavors.
- Food
- Sanuki Udon
Kagawa, known for its wheat production, has the highest udon consumption in Japan. Sanuki udon is famous for its firm, chewy texture and affordable price, around 300 yen per bowl. The broth, made from local dried sardines (iriko) and kelp, adds rich flavor. Popular dishes like "kake udon" and "bukkake udon" can be enjoyed hot or cold, with customizable toppings. Many visitors love trying multiple udon shops in a day, making it a fun way to explore the local food culture.
- Culture
- Ranma Carvings（Kohiga Sculpture Art Studio）
Ranma refers to decorative openwork panels found in Japanese houses, and Kagawa’s ranma carvings are known for their intricate craftsmanship, often inspired by nature and animals. These panels are not only decorative but also serve practical purposes like ventilation and lighting. Valued for blending functionality with artistry, Kagawa’s ranma carvings are officially recognized as a traditional craft, passed down through generations in the region.
- Ohenro
- Okubo-ji Temple（No.88）
The Sanuki Henro is a Shikoku Henro pilgrimage in Kagawa Prefecture. It is easy to visit several temples in a single day, as there are many mountain temples and historical buildings, and they are concentrated in a relatively short distance. Okubo-ji is the 88th temple on the Shikoku pilgrimage. Pilgrims usually end their journey here, but once every four years, in leap years, they make the reverse route, from the 88th temple to the first.
- Ohenro
- Yashima-ji Temple （No.84）
Yashima-ji Temple, the 84th temple on the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, is historically significant due to its connection to the Battle of Yashima in the Genpei War. The temple is also known for the legend of Tasaburo Tanuki, a wise guardian spirit. Located at the summit of Yashima Mountain, about 300 meters high, it offers stunning views of the Seto Inland Sea and Takamatsu City, making it a unique destination for pilgrims and tourists.
