Kotohira Shrine — popularly known as Konpira-san — is one of the main religious centers on the island of Shikoku. Until three bridges were built during recent decades to connect the island and the mainland — and ruin the previously magical scenery — Shikoku was remote and mysterious, a Shangri-La where time seemed to move at a different pace.
Throughout history, Shikoku has been the destination of generations of pilgrims. Many have followed the steps of the priest Kobo Daishi (aka Kukai, 774-835) to visit the 88 Buddhist temples around the island, while others have toured shrines — especially those housing syncretic deities (Buddhist and Shinto), such as Kotohira.
The shrine has ancient origins, and was much revered by mariners navigating the Inland Sea of Japan. Its main deity, Omononushi-no-Mikoto, has been invoked through the ages to protect sailors, and Kotohira Mountain served as a bearing in often-treacherous waters. The shrine grew in importance during the warring Muromachi Period (1338-1573), and its fortunes improved even more during the peaceful Edo Period (1603-1867), when it enjoyed patronage of both the Imperial and shogunal courts.