Kotohira

The town of Kotohira on the western coast of Shikoku is home to the famous Kompira Shrine one of the most revered in all of Japan. It has been a place of pilgrimage since the Edo Period (16th century) and today attracts crowds of worshippers throughout the year. Just five minutes’ walk from Kotohira station, the shrine is reached via an extremely long staircase, with 1368 steps to the very top! The steps are lined with small souvenir shops and cafés and those who make it to the top are rewarded with splendid views out over the Shikoku countryside and some wonderful traditional architecture and artwork (the main shrine is found about half-way up). Visitors to Kotohira should also make time to visit the oldest theatre in Japan, which was built in 1835. The entry ticket for the theatre will allow you to walk around and explore the inner workings of this national treasure. Before leaving town, one should also be sure to indulge in some local Sanuki Udon noodles, a speciality of the region.

Kotohira is an easy day trip from Okayama and the limited express train will take you over the Great Seto Bridge, which takes you over the Seto Inland Sea and provides incredible views of five small islands that are crossed on the way to the Shikoku mainland.