Port
Takamatsu, Japan
Activity Level
Moderate Activity
Excursion Type
All
Wheelchair Accessible
No
Starting At (prices in USD)
$470
Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
Duration
Approximately 8½ Hours
Meals Included
Meals not included
Board a motorcoach for a panoramic drive through Takamatsu city, passing its many highlights.
Next, visit the Kotohira Shrine, located on a mountainside. Konpira is also called Kotohira-gu and is one of 12 guardian gods of Buddha. This shrine is dedicated to the gods of the seas and many sailors and fisherman visit here. The structure of this shrine was influenced by both Shinto and Buddhism.
A Japanese-style lunch is served.
Your next destination is the Zentsu-ji temple. It is the head temple of a Buddhist sect and known as the birthplace of one of the most revered figures of Japanese Buddhism, Kobo Daishi. He started to build this temple in AD 807 after returning from China. You will step inside to explore the historical temple. The vast grounds covering approximately 45,000 square meters are divided into two sections known as the "Toin" (Eastern Precinct) and the "Tanjo-in" (Western Precinct), commonly referred to as the "Garans" and "Tanjo-in," respectively. The "Garans" houses prominent structures such as the main hall and the five-story pagoda, constituting the original temple area since its establishment. On the other hand, the "Tanjo-in," centered around the Mieido Hall, marks the former residential area of the Saeki family, where Kobo Daishi, the founder, is believed to have been born. Both precincts uphold the historical significance of being associated with Kobo Daishi's birthplace. The entire compound is designated as a national historic site, known as the "Sanuki Pilgrimage Route."
Then visit the serene and lovely Ritsurin Garden – it attracts many visitors and was designated a Special Place of Scenic Beauty in 1953. The garden consists of six ponds, many stone arrangements, a teahouse, and bridges near Mt. Shiun, Construction began in the 1620s by the Ikoma family, who ruled Sanuki. In 1745, the Matsudaira family took over, and a hundred years later it became a public garden. Relax over a green tea brewed for you at the Tea House. The tutor will explain how the elaborate process and its celebrated history.
Then it is time to return to the ship.
Please note:
At Konpira, participants must walk up 300 steps to reach the shrine. Not advisable for guests using a wheelchair or for those with mobility limitations. Wear comfortable walking shoes. Bring Japanese currency (yen) for purchases. The grounds of the Risturin Garden featured pebble/gravel surfaces. You must remove your shoes to enter the small tea house in the garden,