Nihon Tripgonihontrip.com
日本旅行 · Trip prep

Kotohira, Shikoku — where to start?

Today's weather in Kotohira
Tue Oct 27, 13:31 Japan now
23° Average temperature
Average October high
Loading live weather…
Tax-free & shopping guide

Tax-freeFrom November 1, it switches to a 'refund system.' You pay tax-inclusive prices in stores and get the tax back after a customs check at the airport when you leave. Be sure to bring your passport.

SouvenirsYellow 'happiness' charms, udon and Konpira 'funabashi' sweets

Shopping tipShops on the approach start closing around 5 p.m.

Shopping spots in Kotohira
Getting around Kotohira

MainAbout 60 min by Kotoden from Takamatsu-Chikko, or about 1 hr by JR from Takamatsu Sta.

On foot10 min walk from the station to the start of the approach

Couldn't load live weather, so average values are shown.

Shopping

Shopping streets & markets in Kotohira, Shikoku · 1

Tax-free shopping changes from November 1, 2026

Instead of tax being deducted at the store, you now pay including tax and get it refunded later.

  1. Show your passport at a tax-free store and pay the tax-inclusive price
  2. When leaving Japan, customs at the airport checks your passport and purchases
  3. Once checked, the store (or a refund agent) refunds the consumption tax

Minimum spend and refund methods can vary by store, so ask before paying.

SouvenirsKotohira

Konpira shrine approach

金刀比羅宮 参道

The stone-step approach lined with souvenir, udon and sweets shops.

Kotoden Kotohira Sta.

Local products & gift ideas

3 gifts to bring home from Shikoku and where to buy them · Kotohira first

SweetsMatsuyama

Ichiroku tart

一六タルト

A Matsuyama sweet of yuzu-scented bean paste rolled in sponge cake; called a tart but shaped like a roll cake.

CraftsMatsuyama

Imabari towels

今治タオル

Soft, highly absorbent towels from Imabari, Japan's largest towel-producing area.

Most are also sold at souvenir shops in airports and major stations. Check hours and stock via the Google Maps links.