Shikoku Pilgrimage Route

Shikoku island comprises the four prefectures of Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi. Shikoku Henro spans all four regions, linking 88 temples associated with the monk Kukai (posthumously known as Kobo-Daishi), founder of the Shingon school of Buddhism and native of Shikoku. Aside from the scenic settings of the temples, there are examples of strikingly beautiful gates, main halls, precious images of Buddha and other treasures.

Shikoku Henro’s approximately 1,400- kilometer (870 mile) route along all 88 temples will take you through mountains, pastoral scenery, along the ocean, and into townships. On foot, the journey takes some 40 days to complete, but visitors can tailor their schedule to visit a portion of the temples by train, car or other means.

People from all over Japan make the pilgrimage to these temples to pray for spiritual training. As long as temple rules are observed, anybody may worship at these sacred places. Many travelers carry a special booklet called a “goshuin-cho” in which they receive stamps from each temple to commemorate their visit.

Along this fabled journey, you’ll most likely see worshippers wearing special white apparel and carrying a pilgrim’s staff. Affectionately called “O-henro-san,” they’re a welcome sight in many towns and villages. The mind of hospitality of local people who sympathize with them still remains in the form of directions as well as food and drink.