8-Day Best of Shikoku Pilgrimage Tour

Embark on a culturally and spiritually enriching 8-day journey through the scenic island of Shikoku! Follow the footsteps of Kukai, take in the grandeur and majestic temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, and get an insight into the fascinating ancient pilgrim traditions. See the best of Ohenro Pilgrimage taking you through the hidden gems around Tokushima, Kochi, Ehime, and Kagawa Prefectures. Definitely, a life-changing experience like no other!Without a doubt, one of your most memorable spiritual journeys to date!

Tour Highlights

• Visit Tokushima, Kochi, Ehime, and Kagawa Prefectures in 8 days

• Take in the beautiful temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage

• Experience a spiritual journey following the footsteps of Kukai

• Get an insight into the history, sacred sites, and nature of Shikoku Island

• Taste Shikoku’s exquisite local delicacies

Itinerary

Day 1

Arrival in Matsuyama

Greet your driver at the designated pick up location, taking you to the hotel. Take time to freshen up before meeting your local guide for a short orientation. Then, enjoy the rest of the day at your own leisure. 

Day 2

Visit the Tranquil Yokomineji Temple

Start the day with a serene walk through the Yokomineji Temple. The 60th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, Yokomineji Temple is situated in the middle of Mount Ishizuchi, making it one of the most difficult temples to reach. 

See the Beautiful Maegamji Temple

Head to the foothills of Mount Ishizuchi to visit Maegamiji Temple, the 64th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Learn about the history of Maegamji Temple and enjoy the scenic views filled with different varieties of flora and fauna.

Marvel at the Impressive Senyuji Temple

Continue to the 58th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, one of the more impressively located pilgrimage temples. Take a leisure stroll around Senyuji Temple, see the impressive guardian statues, and be amazed at the beautiful panoramic views of Imabari, the Shimanami Kaido Suspension Bridges, and the Seto Inland Sea. You can also check out the attractive modern shukubo (Pilgrim’s Guesthouse) and try the delicious Shojin Ryori, a traditional Buddhist cuisine.

Admire the Scenic Landscapes from Itoyama Park

Visit the scenic Itoyama Park to take in the Kurushima Strait’s magnificent natural beauty and the breathtaking views of Mount Takanawa, the Shimanami Kaido, and the Seto Inland Sea.

Enjoy the Beauty of Taisanji Temple

Hear the fascinating story behind the construction of the 52nd Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Situated in the outskirts of Matsuyama, Taisanji Temple offers incredible views of the Shikoku Mountains, particularly on a clear sunny day. Do not miss the temple’s bell tower which has notable scenes of heaven and hell.

Discover the Spectacular Ishiteji Temple

Take time to explore the impressive Ishiteji Temple and hear the fascinating story of the first pilgrim, Emon Saburo. Several structures of the 51st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage have been designated as National Treasures for its historic and religious significance. Explore the legendary temple and learn more about its association to the foundational legend of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. 

Experience the Ultimate Traditional Japanese Ryokan

Head to Dogo, a historic area of Matsuyama known for the oldest onsen in Japan. Take time to rejuvenate after an exhausting day at a traditional Japanese ryokan, take a dip in a mineral-rich, revitalizing traditional Japanese onsen, and have an authentic, multi-course Japanese Kaiseki dinner. An exceptional and unforgettable way to experience traditional Japanese luxury.

Day 3

Climb Up to the Fascinating Kuma Highland

Begin the day with a climb up to Kuma Highland, a massive inhabited area with an astonishing range of geological features such as the Shikoku Karst, the Omogo Gorge, and the Goraiko and Gongen Waterfalls, and hear the interesting myth on how Kuma Highland came to be.

Enjoy the Amazing Scenery along Daihoji Temple

Take in the beautiful, lush forest as you make your way through the 44th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The stunning Daihoji Temple, also known as the Temple of Great Treasure, stands in a forest of ancient sugi and hinoki cypress trees.

Marvel at the Stunning Iwayaji Temple

Continue to the 45th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, one of the temples on the pilgrimage you should visit. The fascinating Iwayaji Temple is popularly known as the Temple of the Cave in the Rock for its unique location embedded in a pock-marked cliff. Appreciate the impressive beauty of its sacred structures and the incredible views of the surrounding landscapes as you listen to the engrossing legends associated with the temple.

See the Enchanting Niyodo River

Pass by the beautiful Niyodo River, one of the three major rivers of Shikoku, and marvel at its unbelievably pristine, crystal clear waters. Take in the breathtaking scenery as you enjoy some fun and exciting activities along Niyodo River, one of the purest and clearest rivers in Japan. 

Visit the Beautiful Shoryuji Temple

Take a trip to the 36th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Best known as the Temple of the Green Dragon, Shoryuji Temple houses a statue of Namikiri Fudo, a deity who calms rough seas and ends suffering. Admire the traditional yet stunning Shoryuji Temple and hear the interesting myth behind the foundation of the temple. 

Stop by the Scenic Kiyotakiji Temple

Head to the last temple stop of the day, the 35th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. The wonderful Kiyotakiji Temple stands high on a hillside of citrus groves at the end of a steep, narrow, and winding road. Tour around the temple and admire the spectacular views of the Tosa City and the Niyodo River. 

Discover the Bustling Hirome Market

Take in the vibrant scenes and lively atmosphere of the popular Hirome Market.  Best known place to eat in Kochi, Hirome Market offers an incredible selection of fresh, local produce. You can check out the food stalls selling mouth-watering local specialties like katsuo no tataki, nori tempura, and takoyaki as well as local shops selling souvenirs, clothes, and accessories. Truly an authentic local experience!

Day 4

Appreciate the Scenic Beauty of Katsurahama Beach

Start the day with a visit to Katsurahama Beach on the picturesque Tosa Bay. Admire the beautiful pine trees, the crescent-shaped sweep of sand, and the crystal clear waters. Stop by the Ryoma Sakamoto Memorial Museum, with a huge bronze statue of Sakamoto Ryoma, and discover how he played a significant role in Japan’s history.

Visit the Serene Chikurinji Temple

Immerse yourself into the tranquil atmosphere as you take a walk around Chikurinji Temple. See the highlights of the 31st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and unravel its magnificent cultural heritage featuring its great National Treasures. You will also discover how the temple was founded. 

See the Beautiful Kongochoji Temple

Visit the 26th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, where Kukai debated a tengu. One of the three temples in Muroto collectively known as Muroto Sanzan, Kongochoji Temple is a popular temple where the lords of Tosa domain came to pray. 

Look Around the Wonderful Konomineji Temple

Make your way to the 27th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage to admire the landscape and see the temple’s main statues. One of the most difficult to access, Konomineji Temple is believed to possess a spiritual spring water with healing powers. 

Stop by the Spectacular Hotsumisakiji Temple

Journey to the 24th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Hotsumisakiji Temple marks the end of one of the longest stretches between temples on the pilgrimage as well as represents the start of the “Austerity and Discipline” Stage of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Do not miss the nearby Cape Muroto Lighthouse, built in the Meiji Period, overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Afterwards, head to a pilgrim’s lodge on Muroto Peninsula to rest after an exhausting day.

Day 5

See the Notable Mikuro and Shinmei Caves

Begin the day with a trip to Mikuro and Shimei Caves to visit the place where Kukai made a rough home and sought enlightenment. Get an insight into how Kukai attained spiritual enlightenment and changed his birth name.

Drop by the Famous Yakuoji Temple

Travel to the eastern side of the Muroto Peninsula into Tokushima Prefecture and head to the 23rd Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Best known for expelling evil spirits, Yakuoji Temple also offers an incredible view of Hiwasa Bay and Hiwasa Castle. Feel free to place coins on the steep steps to protect yourself from bad fortune. 

Visit the Magnificent Byodoji Temple

Continue to the 22nd Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Byodoji Temple is said to have been founded by Kukai who dug a well that is believed to produce healing water. See the image of Yakushi Nyorai, also known as the Temple of Equality, carved by Kukai and enshrined as the principal image of the temple with the wish of equal happiness of the people. 

Discover the Splendid Tairyuji Temple

Hop on the scenic Tairyuji Ropeway, an aerial tram taking you up to the magnificent mountaintop Tairyuji Temple. Take in the sacredness of the 21st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, experience an ethereal retreat in the midst of tall trees, historic structures, and pillars of rock. You will also learn about the fascinating legend on how a great dragon protected Kukai.

Experience the Incredible Views from the Great Kakurinji Temple

Journey to the historic Kakurinji Temple, also known as the Temple of Forest Cranes, to see how spectacularly beautiful the 20th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage is. Hear the story on how the temple’s name came to be from your knowledgeable guide as you see the fascinating statues of sacred cranes. Without a doubt, a truly ancient Buddhist temple!

Day 6

See the Unique Jorakuji Temple

Make your way to the 14th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and be amazed at one of the most unusual courtyards of the pilgrimage. Jorakuji Temple was built on an inclined mudstone outcrop with stone walls to complement the natural rock. Best known as the Temple of Everlasting Peace, Jorakuji Temple is also a site of a touching miracle. 

Visit the Historic Awa Kokubunji Temple

Continue to the 15th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, standing among rice fields of the Tokushima Rift Valley. Awa Kokubunji Temple is one of the three Zen temples on the pilgrimage. Take time to explore the temple and see its highly regarded gardens. 

Stop by the Notable Ryozenji Temple

Head to the 1st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Ryozenji Temple is the starting point on Shikoku for the famous pilgrimage where you can purchase all the paraphernalia required to walk the entire pilgrimage. Check out the Matchmaking Kannon which is believed to be beneficial not only for love matches but also for health, work, and happiness. 

Discover the Legendary Gokurakuji Temple

Journey to the 2nd Temple of the Shikoku Paradise to offer prayers. Popularly known as the Temple of Paradise, check out the powerful Gankake Jizo to answer your prayers, feel free to touch the sacred tree for longevity, safety, and good health, and see the Anzan Daishi statue for easy and smooth childbirth. 

Marvel at the Great Kumadanji Temple

See the magnificent temple gate of Kumadanji Temple, the 8th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which is said to be the biggest and finest out of all 88 temples. Check out the short, curbed bridge going to an island with a shrine to Benzaiten, where women offer prayers for easy childbirth. 

Look Around the Beautiful Okuboji Temple

Visit the picturesque Okuboji Temple, the 88th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Pilgrims who make it to the last temple are considered to have fulfilled their vows. Admire the charming landscapes of the last and final temple and learn the history behind its establishment.

Day 7

Admire the Incredible Scenic Views from Yashimaji Temple

Take a journey to Mount Yashima of Kagawa Prefecture and head to your first temple of the day, the 84th Temple of Shikoku Pilgrimage. One of the last stops of the pilgrimage, legend says that Kukai carved a one thousand-armed Buddha statue as Yashimaji Temple’s main image. See a number of stone Tanuki statues and feel free to offer your prayers for good marriages, relationships, and happiness. 

Enjoy the Grandeur of the Yakuriji Temple

Visit the 85th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, founded by the famous Chinese monk Chin’en-chen (Ganjin). Check out the fascinating Welcoming Daishi, a seated statue of Kukai, offering a stunning view over the Sanuki Plain. Yakuriji Temple is sacred to the deity of Bliss, Kangiten. Go ahead and offer your prayers for academic achievement, business prosperity, and good marriage. 

See the Historic Negoroji Temple

Continue to the 82nd Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, where a fragrant river flowed from the base of a tree. Hear the interesting story behind Negoriji Temple and the sacred, fragrant tree from your knowledgeable guide as you stroll around the temple surrounded by the sacred peaks of the Katsuragi Mountains. The temples grounds of Negoroji Temple have been designated as a National Historic Site and a National Place of Scenic Beauty.

Visit the Ancient Shiromineji Temple

Make your way through the beautiful path leading the 81st Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. One of the oldest temples on the pilgrimage, learn about the history of Shiromineji Temple, admire the ornate gateway, statues, and landscape of the temple, and enjoy the spectacular views of Kagawa. 

Stop by the Legendary Shusshakaji Temple

Visit the 73rd Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and hear the famous legend on how Kukai decided to test his faith by jumping off the imposing Mt. Gahaishi’s cliffs. Take time to explore Shusshakaji Temple and admire the incredible scenic views over the plains of Sanuki.

Explore the Monumental Zentsuji Temple

Head to the 75th Temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage to see the birthplace of Kukai. The first Shingon temple in Japan, Zentsuji Temple is also the largest temple complex in Shikoku. Tour the complex and see its magnificent shrines and pagoda as well as its majestic treasures including the relics of Kukai. Afterwards, head to a traditional Japanese ryokan where you will spend the night. 

Day 8

Visit the Magnificent Konpira Shrine

Take an early morning visit to the spectacular Konpira Shrine. The largest Shinto Shrine Complex in Shikoku, also known as Kotohira-gu, is a shrine dedicated to sailors and seafaring. Feel the overwhelming peacefulness as you make your way to the shrine, offering amazing panoramic views of Kotohira. You can also check out several souvenir shops, restaurants, and a sake museum at the bottom of the path up to the shrine.

Depart from Kotohira

Take a convenient transport from Kotohira to Takamatsu Airport or Station for your onward journey.

Inclusions

• 7 Nights Accommodation in High International Standard Hotel 

• Breakfast (7)

• Dinner (2)

• English-Speaking Local Guide

• Transportation as Per Itinerary

• Admission Fees and Activities as Per Itinerary

Exclusions

• Local and International Flights to and from Shikoku

• Airport Transfers

• Local Hotel Tax

• Meals Not Mentioned

• Drinks

• Visas

• Travel Insurance

• Personal Expenses

• Gratuities (Optional)

Additional Information

• The tour operates in all weather conditions, please dress appropriately.

• Travelers should have a moderate physical fitness level.

• A moderate amount of walking is involved; Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

• Arrival time at each location may vary depending on the season and the day of the week due to traffic conditions.

• If there is insufficient time for all attractions on the itinerary, the tour guide will adjust the length of time spent at other attractions. 

• Delays, shortening of the tours, or omissions to the itinerary due to traffic, weather, or other unforeseen circumstances are not subject to refund.

• Itinerary is subject to change and the attractions may be closed due to traffic, weather, and force majeure. An alternative itinerary may also be omitted depending on road conditions.

• Please note that on days in which no activities are planned, you are free to explore at your leisure; all activities and purchases will be at your own expense. You will have your tour guide's mobile number in case of emergency.