Zenigata


Zenigata is a 350m-circumference coin-shaped sculpture in the sand dating from 1633. The coin and its inscription are formed by huge trenches dug in the sand, and are said to have been dug overnight by the local population as a welcome present to their feudal lord. For the best views of the impressive sculpture, drive or climb the hill to the observation point in Kotohiki-kōen, directly behind Temple 68. There is a track up from the back of the temple.


Lonely Planet's must-see attractions

Nearby attractions

1. Temples 68 & 69: Jinne-in & Kanon-ji

0.39 MILES

These two temples, said to have been founded in AD 703, are notable in that this is the only point on the pilgrimage trail where two of the 88 Temples…

2. Temple 66: Unpen-ji

8.23 MILES

Unpen-ji, aptly meaning 'Temple of the Surrounding Clouds', is the highest of the 88 Temples at 900m. Surprisingly, it actually sits in Tokushima…

3. Temple 73: Shusshaka-ji

8.54 MILES

Temple 73 on the 88 Temple Circuit, Shusshaka-ji was moved to the valley 200 years ago to make it more accessible to pilgrims. Before that, it was up a…

4. Temple 75: Zentsū-ji

9.98 MILES

Zentsū-ji, Temple 75 of the sacred 88, is the largest of the temples – most of the other 87 could fit in its car park. This is where Kōbō Daishi was born,…

5. Gohonsha

10.19 MILES

The short final ascent at Konpira-san, which is the most beautiful leg of the walk, brings you to Gohonsha.

6. Ema-dō

10.2 MILES

Ema-dō is filled with maritime offerings ranging from pictures of ships and models to modern ship engines.

7. Asahi-no-Yashiro

10.21 MILES

Built in 1837, this large hall is dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu, and is noted for its ornate wood-carving.

8. Konpira-san

10.27 MILES

Konpira-san or, more formally, Kotohira-gū, was originally a Buddhist and Shintō temple dedicated to the guardian of mariners. It became exclusively a…