Lush with greenery, towering trees and majestic mountains, Shikoku is a welcome escape from the densely populated regions of Japan. The first expressway to connect Shikoku to the main island of Honshū was built in 1988, and so could previously only be reached by boat. This still gives the region an isolated nature that has protected the original characteristics of Japanese culture and its ancient traditions. The mountainous nature of the region means there is heavy snowfall in winter and mild temperatures in summer. Shikoku’s rugged remoteness has attracted many travelers seeking a more unique part of Japan.
The island is also home to the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage, a spiritual journey following in the footsteps of Kōbō Daishi, also known as Kūkai, who reached enlightenment in the isolated mountains and decided to devote his life to the Buddha. Following intense study of Buddhism in China and the creation of the temple complex on Mount Kōya, he never forgot his home island of Shikoku and undertook a journey to visit all of its 88 temples. Even today pilgrims from all over the world follow in his footsteps and visit the temples dressed in traditional garb, receiving blessings in the form of food and drinks from the locals.
The majority of the population settled along the coast because of the flat terrain and established communities around the main temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Walking temple-to-temple is not only a spiritual journey but also a cultural one that passes through cities rich with history and ancient stories. The Japanese term dougyou ninin (同行二人) literally means ‘traveling together’ and in the context of the pilgrimage of the 88 temples this means that Kōbō Daishi always travels with the pilgrim and accompanies him/her in difficulties. This text is inscribed on the walking poles of the ohenro pilgrims and the hearts of the people of Shikoku.
Discover the country at your own pace with our detailed maps and walking instructions. Everything else - from rail tickets to accommodations - are all organised by us, so you can focus on relaxing and enjoying excellent local home-cooked meals and world class hospitality.
A mixture of paved town roads and forest trails. Sometimes strenuous, this trip features days of up to 8 hours of hiking.
Mixed town roads (paved) and forest trails (unpaved) - the walk is strenuous at times, with days of up to 8 hours of hiking
For hiking enthusiasts looking to experience the best Shikoku has to offer. Hike a mixture of paved town roads and unpaved forested trails on the loveliest parts of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Experience traditional pilgrim lodging, the atmospheric Iya Valley, and bathe in Japan’s oldest hot spring.
Sign up as individual travellers and leave as lifelong friends on an Oku Japan small-group guided tour. With a maximum of 13 people in any group, our tours ensure you get the full attention of your local guide who themselves share a passion for Japan. Whether it’s traditions, food, society or history, learn the ins and outs together with your fellow travellers and the assistance of our fully-licensed, bilingual guides.
A small-group guided walking tour to sacred Mount Kōya and The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Trail.