Kan'onji, Coastal city in western Kagawa Prefecture, Japan
Kan'onji is a coastal city on the Seto Inland Sea in Kagawa, with varied terrain ranging from sea level to the Sanuki Mountains to the south. The landscape combines waterfront areas with rolling hills and different elevation zones.
The area had settlements and burial grounds dating back to the Kofun period. The first major religious structure, Kotohiki Hachiman shrine, was built in 703 and became a focal point for the region.
Two temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route draw visitors and pilgrims throughout the year. These sacred sites remain central to the spiritual life of the community.
The city offers coastal activities and mountain areas for hiking within easy reach. Visitors should prepare for varying weather conditions depending on whether they explore the waterfront or higher elevations.
Kotohiki Park contains Zenigata Sunae, a large sand drawing shaped like a traditional Japanese coin. This unusual feature creates an unexpected visual element that visitors often discover during park exploration.
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