Kotohira has train stations on both the Japan Rail (JR) and private Kotoden line. We bought a Kotoden One Day Pass so after visiting Kotohira-gū, we could take the Kotiden line to Mount Yashima to visit Yashima-ji, Temple No. 84 of the 88 Temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail.
On the Kotoden Line to Kotohiro for the one hour journey.
Near the Kotodan Kotohira Station is the largest lantern in Japan; kinda like a lighthouse but it's inland.
It's 1368 steps to the top. You can rent a pole for 100 yen (about 90 cents)...
... or get carried up for 6000 yen (about 55 UDS).
Just inside the gate are the white umbrellas of the 5 official ancient sweets vendors.
Donor's steles line the way.
Kotohira-gū protects ships and sailors; no wonder a propeller near the main shrine...
...and photos of tugboats, offshore oil rigs, sailors, and astronauts; plus a solar sailboat.
The main shrine, reached by just 785 steps, also has a view.
Finally up to the peaceful Inner Shrine.
And then a very nice walk back down.
Heading to Mount Yashima.
At the base of Mount Yashima, we run into our first henro (pilgrim) in the traditional white garb with hat.
Plenty of signage to get one up to Yashima-ji, Temple No. 84.
Plus some small shrines for atmosphere and inspiration.
View back to Takamatsu from about 2/3rds way up.
Two fierce Nio guard each temple.
And the temple itself. Actually a complex of buildings.
More than spectacular views from the top of Mount Yashima down to Takamatsu and across the Inland Sea to Okayama. We could not get enough even though a chilly wind was howling.
Another trail signpost.
We spent 6 nights in Takamatsu. Here's a shot outside our fav supermarket MARUNAKA during the evening rush when folks are out shopping in the arcade.
Free evening drinks from our hotel. Beer on the left and Japanese Highball on the right. Each dispenses from its own keg at the touch of a button.Cool.
The beverage dispenser is cool!
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