Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail

四国八十八箇所巡礼

A sacred 1,200-kilometer Buddhist pilgrimage circuit connecting 88 temples across all four prefectures, traditionally walked by millions seeking spiritual renewal. Walking the entire trail takes 30-60 days and offers profound cultural and spiritual immersion.

Things to do

• Temple 1 Ryozenji Visit — Begin or end your pilgrimage at this founding temple in Naruto where pilgrims traditionally receive their walking credentials and spiritual blessing.
• Temple 88 Okadera Completion — Conclude the full circuit at this mountain temple in Kagawa where pilgrims celebrate finishing the 1,200-kilometer journey with a formal completion ceremony.
• Yoshida Beach Walking Section — Trek the scenic coastal stretch between temples in Kochi prefecture where the trail follows pristine shorelines and offers ocean views.
• Mountain Pass Hiking Stage — Experience the challenging high-elevation sections between temples 19-23 in the Iya Valley with steep terrain and panoramic valley views.
• Pilgrimage Museum at Temple 75 — Visit Zentsūji temple's museum to learn about the legendary founder Kōbō Daishi and the historical significance of the 88-temple circuit.
• Henro House Lodging Experience — Stay at traditional pilgrim lodges (henro houses) that provide simple meals and shelter while connecting with fellow pilgrims and locals.

Food to try

• Sanuki Udon — Kagawa's famous thick wheat noodles served in light broth, traditionally eaten by pilgrims for energy and available at shops throughout Shikoku.
• Bonito Tataki — Katsuo no tataki is lightly seared bonito fish sliced thin and served with soy-based dipping sauce, a Kochi specialty reflecting the region's fishing heritage.
• Kenchin Jiru Soup — A vegetable-based soup with tofu and root vegetables traditionally prepared at temples and henro houses to sustain pilgrims during their journey.
• Shoyu Dango Dumplings — Sweet skewered dumplings glazed with soy sauce sold at temple gift shops and roadside stalls as quick pilgrim snacks.
• Yuzu Citrus Products — Kochi's signature yuzu fruit appears in teas, preserves, and local dishes, offering refreshing sustenance for walkers on hot sections of the trail.

Local customs & good to know

• Obtain a Pilgrimage Stamp Book — Purchase a henro-nokori (pilgrimage booklet) at the starting temple to collect unique stamps at each of the 88 temples, creating an official record of your spiritual progress.
• Wear White Pilgrimage Clothes — Dress in traditional white henro garments including a vest and hat that identify you as a pilgrim and demonstrate respect for the sacred journey to locals and other walkers.
• Practice Temple Etiquette — Follow protocols such as removing shoes before entering temple buildings, making offerings at main halls, and respectfully greeting priests who may offer guidance or blessings.
• Connect with Pilgrim Community — Engage with other henro (pilgrims) and locals who often offer hospitality, directions, and meals as acts of spiritual merit called 'osettai'—a cherished custom of supporting fellow walkers.