Special Privileges of the Five Families in Kagawa

Official statistics show that Kotohira Shrine attracts around four million visitors annually, bringing significant business opportunities to Kotohira Town and fostering vibrant commercial development along the approach to the shrine. Although setting up stalls within the shrine's premises is generally prohibited, there are several locations where you can find vendors under umbrellas marked with signs of the "Five Families." These vendors operate within the sacred grounds, selling their goods. This unique privilege dates back to the Kamakura period. The five umbrellas represent families who contributed to the construction of Kotohira Shrine and were granted special permission to sell "Kamiyo Candy" within the shrine's grounds. This fan-shaped candy, infused with yuzu flavor, is meant to be broken into pieces with a hammer and shared, symbolizing the distribution of divine blessings. Along the approach to the shrine, each of the Five Families also operates their own shops. One notable spot along the approach is the Toraya Annex, a traditional Japanese inn built during the late Edo period. It once hosted Emperor Emeritus Akihito and Empress Emerita Michiko during their time as Crown Prince and Princess. Another historic inn, Shikishima-kan, established in the late Meiji period, has over a century of history. After a period of closure, it was acquired by a hotel chain and transformed into a hot spring resort. Another interesting highlight of Sanuki Province is its famous Wasanbon sugar, alongside its renowned udon noodles. Local ice cream shops have creatively incorporated Wasanbon sugar into their offerings. They provide a small packet of colorful Wasanbon sugar balls alongside the ice cream, allowing customers to decide how much to add and how to decorate their treat. Any leftover sugar balls can be taken home. 📍Address: Kotohira, Nakatado District, Kagawa 766-0000, Japan 🚗 Access: A 13-minute walk from JR Kotohira Station or Kotoden Kotohira Station.