Kompira-san, the iconic Konpira Shrine representing Kagawa Prefecture

Kotohira-gu Shrine, widely known as "Konpira-san," is Kagawa's most iconic shrine. The stone steps number 785 from the entrance to the Main Shrine and 1,368 to the Inner Shrine. Since it was my first visit, I decided to push on to the Inner Shrine. The beginning was fun with many souvenir shops lining both sides, and I didn't feel too tired. But gradually, I grew quieter and the sweat wouldn't stop. While school trip students casually exchanged remarks like "I can't do this anymore!" and "Final sprint!", I was already feeling it in my legs at the Main Shrine. I hesitated for a moment, but stubbornly pushed on to the Inner Shrine. Along the way, I encountered a snake, and while some foreign tourists turned back, I made it safely to the goal. Man, this pilgrimage was quite the challenge.

Kotohira-gu Shrine