Kotohiki Park

Overview & Highlights

Kotohiki Park is a vast scenic area located within the Seto Inland Sea National Park in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture. Spanning approximately 48 hectares, it is recognized as one of the "100 Best Historical Parks in Japan." The park encompasses the summit of Mt. Kotohiki, its foothills, and the coastline of Ariake Beach, offering a diverse landscape where the sea, mountains, ancient shrines, and historical sites coexist. The most iconic features are the massive Zenigate Sand Art (Zenigata Sunae) and the sprawling pine groves of black pines.

History & Cultural Background

Established in 1897, this park holds deep historical significance. Near the summit of Mt. Kotohiki lies the historic Kotohiki Hachiman-gu Shrine, a site long revered by locals and pilgrims. The area is also deeply connected to Buddhist culture, featuring historical sites such as Shoei-in (the 68th temple of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage) and Kanonji (the 69th temple). This blend of natural beauty and spiritual depth has been carefully preserved for generations.

Key Attractions

• *Zenigata Sand Art 'Kanei Tsuho'**: A massive sand drawing measuring 122m east-west and 90m north-south. It is believed that viewing this giant coin pattern brings good health, longevity, and financial prosperity.
• *Pine Groves & Neagari Matsu**: The grove of 50,000 black pines is selected as one of the "100 Best White Sand and Green Pine Landscapes in Japan." The