Description

Journey Shikoku Pilgrimage Lonely Planet Guide

The Journey Shikoku Pilgrimage Lonely Planet Guide brings you closer to the history of one of the world’s great adventures. Discover magnificent mountain views, see the ‘temple in the clouds’, explore windswept coastal headlands–using our expert travel writers, detailed maps and insightful tips so that you never miss a moment of this bucket-list trip.

The Shikoku Pilgrimage (or Shikoku Henro) is a deeply spiritual, 1,200-kilometer (750-mile) circular trail looping around Japan’s fourth-largest island. Steeped in over a millennium of history, the trek connects 88 official Buddhist temples associated with Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi), the legendary 9th-century monk who founded Shingon Buddhism.

The route historically mirrors the Buddhist path to enlightenment. It spans four prefectures, taking walkers through coastal highways, rural farming villages, and demanding mountain passes.

While completing the full loop on foot takes roughly six weeks, modern pilgrims often use trains, buses, or bicycles, or simply walk short sections. Beyond the physical challenge, the journey is defined by osettai – a beautiful, centuries-old local tradition of hospitality where residents offer walking pilgrims free food, drinks, or places to rest. 

Available in our Hobart CBD store or online at Geographica.