The Shikoku Pilgrimage Route refers to the 88
Temples that are associated with Kobo Daishi, a famous
Buddhist Monk.
The Shikoku Pilgrimage Route
makes stops at 88
temples that are associated with the famed Buddhist
Monk Kukai, also known as Kobo Daishi. Henro is the
Japanese word for pilgrim and on the island the
inhabitants refer to the pilgrims as o-henro san. The
practice of going on pilgrimages has existed since the
Heian Period. These temples circle around the border
of the island of Shikoku. It has a long history of many
ascetic monks traversing to the different sites. Today
a variety of individuals undertake the journey for
pious or tourist purposes. The pilgrimage is
traditionally completed on foot, but modern modes of
transportation can be used.
The walking course consists of 1,200 kilometers and
may take 30 to 60 days to complete. It is not required
to visit the temples in order, but it is said that traveling
in reverse is considered lucky. Those traveling to the
temples can be recognized by the white clothing,
sedge hat and walking stick. There are sites along
the way where pilgrims can rest, spend the night, or
be offered free food. These sites can be found with a
sign that is meant for pilgrims only. Mount Koya,
headquarters of Shingon Buddhism, is where many
pilgrims begin and complete their pilgrimage. The 21
kilometer walking trail to Koyasan still exists, but
there is a train available for use. When visiting each
temple it is proper to wash yourself before entering
the Hondo. Afterwards you are to make an offering of
coins, incense, and osame-fuda.
Please see below for tours that include
Shikoku Pilgrimage Route:
