By ando 
Kotohira-gu jinja, located in Kotohira Town, Kagawa Prefecture, has long been affectionately known by its nickname, “Sanuki no Konpira-san.” During the Edo period, it was such an admired sacred site for common people that it was said, “You must visit Konpira once in your lifetime.” This time, we will delve into the charms of this historic jinja, from its basic information to little-known mysteries and behind-the-scenes stories.
Basic Information: The Kami of the Sea and Endless Stone Steps
The main enshrined kami at Kotohira-gu are Omono-nushi no kami and Emperor Sutoku. While it offers a wide range of blessings for agriculture, industry, medicine, and more, it is especially renowned for its worship as the kami of “maritime safety and protection.”
The most significant feature of a visit is the long series of stone steps.
To the Omoto-gu (Main Shrine): 785 steps
To the Okusha (Inner Shrine, also known as Igadama-jinja): 1368 steps
It is believed that by climbing these steps one by one, visitors can cleanse themselves of worldly desires and draw closer to the kami.
The Mystery of the Steps: Why Not 786 Steps?
In fact, there is an interesting trick regarding the steps up to the Omoto-gu. Originally, the number of steps should have been 786. However, 7
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