Kan'onji Travel Guide

Trek Zone

City

Facts and practical information

Kan'onji, a charming city located in the Kagawa region of Japan, is a hidden gem that offers a perfect blend of traditional Japanese culture and modern attractions. The city is renowned for its stunning natural beauty, with lush greenery, scenic mountains, and picturesque coastlines that provide a peaceful and serene atmosphere for visitors.

One of the must-visit attractions in Kan'onji is the scenic Kotohira-gu Shrine, also known as Konpira-san. This ancient shrine is nestled at the foot of Mount Zozu and is famous for its long stone stairway leading to the main hall, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. Visitors can also explore the charming streets of the nearby Kotohira Town, which is lined with traditional shops, restaurants, and tea houses.

For those interested in history and culture, Kan'onji is home to the Kan'onji Castle Ruins, which offer a glimpse into the city's rich samurai heritage. The ruins are surrounded by beautiful cherry blossoms in the spring, making it a popular spot for hanami (cherry blossom viewing) picnics. Additionally, the city is also known for its traditional pottery, and visitors can take a pottery-making workshop to create their own unique souvenirs.

Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the natural beauty of Kan'onji, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and birdwatching in the surrounding mountains and forests. The tranquil Seto Inland Sea coast is perfect for leisurely strolls and sunset views, while the nearby Yoshida River offers scenic boat cruises for a relaxing day on the water.

Local name: 観音寺市 Population: 57.3 thous. (2019)Area: 45.5 mi²Elevation: 16 ft a.s.l.Coordinates: 34°7'38"N, 133°39'18"E

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KagawaJapan

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Kan'onji Top Attractions

Kan'onji Attractions - What to See and Explore

Kan'onji offers many attractions and places to visit. Here are the most important ones: Kotohiki Hachimangū, Hōnen'ike Dam, Shen hui yuan, Guan yin si. Below you will find a complete list of places worth visiting.

Temple
Kotohiki Hachimangū
Kotohiki Hachimangū is a Shinto shrine in Kan'onji, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. Located within Kotohiki Park, itself part of the Setonaikai National Park, there is an aetiological legend that sees the god Hachiman appearing to the eighth-century monk Nisshō Shōnin while he was playing a koto on board ship.
Park • Dam
Hōnen'ike Dam
Hōnen'ike Dam is a multiple-arch dam in the Sanuki Mountain range at Kan'onji, Kagawa Prefecture, Japan. The reservoir it creates is used for irrigation. Construction began in 1926 and was completed in 1930. The dam is 32 m high and has a crest length of 158 m. It is supported by six arched buttresses.
Temple
Shen hui yuan
Shinkei-in Temple is a temple of the Daikakuji School of Shingon Buddhism located in Kanonji City, Kagawa Prefecture. It is the 68th temple of the 88 sacred places in Shikoku. The main deity is Amida Nyorai.

Day trips

Kan'onji – popular in the area (distance from the center)

In the vicinity of Kan'onji, it's worth seeing attractions such as: Higashiyama Kaii Seouchi Art Museum (Sakaide), Kōraku-en (Okayama), Okayama Castle (Okayama).

18 milesNE
Art museum, Museum
Higashiyama Kaii Seouchi Art Museum, Sakaide
Nestled in the picturesque city of Sakaide, Japan, the Kagawa Prefectural Higashiyama Kaii Setouchi Art Museum stands as a serene tribute to the celebrated Japanese painter, Higashiyama Kaii. Renowned for his landscape paintings that beautifully capture the essence of...
41 milesNE
Edo period gardens dating from 1700
Kōraku-en, Okayama
Nestled in the heart of Okayama, Japan, Kōraku-en stands as a testament to the country's storied past and its appreciation for natural beauty. This traditional Japanese garden, established in 1700 by the ruling Ikeda family, is recognized as one of the Three Great...
40 milesNE
Historic castle site framed by gardens
Okayama Castle, Okayama
Nestled in the heart of Okayama city, Okayama Castle stands as a proud testament to Japan's rich feudal history. Known as "Crow Castle" due to its striking black exterior, this magnificent structure was originally constructed in the 16th century, during the...
9.6 miNE
Shinto shrine on the side of Mount Zōzu
Kotohira-gū, Kotohira
Nestled in the quaint town of Kotohira in Kagawa Prefecture, Japan, Kotohira-gū, also known as Kompira-san, is a revered Shinto shrine that beckons pilgrims and tourists alike with its blend of spiritual heritage and natural beauty.
37 milesW
Historical place, Forts and castles
Imabari Castle, Imabari
Imabari Castle, a historical fortress in the city of Imabari, Japan, is a picturesque destination for travelers with an interest in Japanese history and architecture. Constructed in 1604 by the feudal lord Tōdō Takatora, a renowned castle builder and daimyo of the...

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Best Time To Visit Kan'onji

Learn when is the best time to travel to Kan'onji weather-wise and what to expect in each season.

Popularity among visitors

JFMAMJJASOND

May and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March, April, July and October.

Average temperatures in °F

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The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.

Monthly rainfall in inches

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The lowest rainfall is recorded in January and December. Most of it rains in June and September.

Length of day in hours

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We can expect the longest days in June, while the shortest in December.

Sunrise

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What are the top attractions to visit in Kan'onji?

The top attractions to visit in Kan'onji are:

What is the best time to visit Kan'onji?

May and August are the busiest months in this location. Slightly fewer tourists decide to visit in March, April, July and October. The highest air temperature is in July and August. While the coldest is in January, February and December.