Kompirasan Shrine (Kotohira-gu Shrine)

The Kompirasan Shrine, known as the guardian shrine of the sea, attracts thousands of worshipers a day, popular among fishermen, sailors and large shipping companies. Visiting this shrine can be a challenge for the hike towards the main shrines consisting of 1,368 stone steps. The complex of this shrine is unique among other shrines in Japan for its mixture between Shinto and Buddhism Temples. Elements and traits in the architecture and atmosphere are still available for worshipers to experience, even after the Meiji government enforced the separation of the two religions throughout Japan. Touristy souvenir shops and restaurants with specialty Sanuki Udon greet hikers at the half way point of the stairs among stone lanterns and structures along the way. A unique palanquin at the entrance of the shrine is offered to visitors, which only transports you up to the main gate of Kompirasan, regarded as the shrine with the most difficult approach in Japan. The statue of the Konpira inu, or Konpira Dog, refers to dogs that travel on behalf of their owners who could not personally visit the shrine. The information of the owner, along with the address and travel fees of the dog are placed in a pouch for friendly travelers to lead all the way to the Kompirasan Shrine, a traditional popularly applied during the end of Edo period. Special luck charms featuring the Konpira inu is available at this location, a popular souvenir unique to Kompirasan Shrine.