Overview
When you imagine the Shikoku Pilgrimage, perhaps you picture temples clinging to cliffs deep in the mountains, surrounded by dense forest and accessed by ancient trails worn down by the feet of pilgrims over centuries. While 80% of the modern pilgrimage route follows paved roads, on this tour you walk through the mountains to some of the Henro’s most spectacular sacred sites, perfect for those looking to immerse themselves in Japan’s natural beauty and dig deep into the pilgrimage’s origins in mountain veneration and asceticism. The course takes you on a full loop of the island, making it a great introduction to the charms of each of Shikoku’s four prefectures.
This tour includes a private car to shuttle you to and from your accommodation and ensure your safety along each hiking route, an expert guide-interpreter who can help you dive into the traditions and culture of the pilgrimage, and accommodation ranging from temple lodgings to modern hot spring hotels where you can relax after your hikes. While spring and autumn are the most popular seasons for pilgrimage, Shikoku’s winters are mild and good for walking, and summers, while hot, is the season for many of Shikoku’s festivals. We can help you make the perfect itinerary for any season.
Who is this tour for?
This is a private tour for groups of tour or more looking for a guided experience of hikes along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. These sections are some of the toughest of the pilgrimage, and while the routes can be adjusted to some extent, it is designed for those in good physical condition with some hiking experience. You’ll also need to have hiking appropriate footwear, clothing, and gear (like a backpack, raincoat, etc.). The itinerary includes a stay at a temple accommodation with a shared bath. If you’re not comfortable bathing nude with strangers in Japanese style, please let us know so we can find an alternative.
Important
Most of the temples we visit on this tour are at the top of mountains, and very little of the trail is flat. If you like to walk slowly or don’t like hills, this tour is not suitable for you. While most of the trails are mountain paths, some sections include steps, gravel, and pavement.
If you’re looking for a more laidback itinerary, check out our Intro to the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which takes you to many of the same sites by car.
For those looking for a more traditional experience of the Henro, walking the temples in order with guidance and support, we offer the Walking Pilgrimage in Tokushima tour from Temples 1 to 23. Don’t see exactly what you want? Contact us to start designing the perfect itinerary for your adventure on the Shikoku Henro.
Price and Currency Disclaimer:
Our tours are priced in yen, but we’ll invoice you in your own currency. For your convenience, you can display indicative prices in your currency.
