What to Do and Where to Go on a Shikoku Pilgrimage in Tokushima

The Shikoku Pilgrimage, also known as the Shikoku Henro, is perhaps the most famous Japanese pilgrimage with over a hundred thousand visitors annually. This journey allows you to follow the footsteps of Buddhist monk Kobo Daishi, hearkening back to some 1,200 years ago. It features 88 temples and spans 1,400 kilometers across the four prefectures of Shikoku (Tokushima, Kōchi, Ehime, and Kagawa).

This Shikoku 88 route guide takes you through several significant sites that offer natural beauty and delightful experiences in Tokushima, one of the four passages of the Shikoku pilgrimage.

Preparing to embark on your pilgrimage

How much does it cost and how long does it take to do the Shikoku Pilgrimage in Japan

Walking the whole way (all four prefectures) will take six weeks and is the most expensive option (the Shikoku 88 price is approximately JPY 400,000). You may opt to take a chartered bus that will take 9-12 days and cost around JPY 250,000. You can also rent a car and explore the area on your own, which will take approximately ten days and cost around JPY 140,000.

What to wear

While you can journey in casual outdoor wear, it’s a different experience when you dress the part. Get into the mood of a pilgrim of yore when you wear the traditional white robe or hakue.

A monk’s stole, called kesa, is an elegant yet simple garment traditionally worn when greeting the Buddha. Wear the kasa, or sedge hat, to protect yourself from sunlight, wind, and rain.

What to bring

Complete your look by taking a kongo walking stick for physical and spiritual support along the way. Take your stamp book (to collect memorable seals at each temple), nenju (prayer beads to hang on your hand when praying to the Buddha), and suzu (a bell to ring if you wander off-trail).

Where to get these pilgrimage goods

Monzen-ichiban-gai is a traditionally-styled shop right in front of the first temple, Ryozenji. Here, you can find various pilgrimage goods, from costumes to rent and souvenirs to take home. If you are looking for even more detailed instructions and tips for your trip, talk to a sendatsu (official guide). Before your journey, treat yourself to a piece of sweet local rice cake and a cup of tea or coffee to nourish your body and soul for your sacred tour.

• Location: 29-6 Bandouaza-Nishiyamada, Ooasa-cho, Naruto City, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Open year-round

Highlights of the Shikoku Pilgrimage Itinerary

Jikuwazan Ichijouin Royozenji - start and end in this symbolic place

Ryozenji Temple is the first temple in the Shikoku Pilgrimage. According to legend, Gyoki, a monk, founded it in the early 8th century.

Ryozenji is a symbolic place where many pilgrims begin and end their sacred journey. Enter through the stunning Niomon or Deva Gate, where a pair of wooden Nio guardians carefully watch you. Gaze upon the two-story pagoda enshrining the Gochi Nyorai or Five Buddha statues. The temple is also the home of a statue of Kannon, Goddess of Mercy, believed to bring good fortune in love, work, and health.

Before going to the next destination, stop by the beautiful Meji Garden with its large carp pond and waterfalls. Take a deep breath and embrace the beautiful stillness as your adventure begins.

• Location: 126 Bando Tsukahana, Ooasa-cho, Naruto City, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Open year-round

Honke Matsuura Sake Brewery - taste Japan’s timeless tradition

Just a stone’s throw away from Ryozenji Temple is the Honke Matsuura Sake Brewery. Established in 1804, it is the oldest brewery in the Tokushima Prefecture. Honke Matsuura's "Narutotai" brand is famous locally and worldwide.

Visit the main brewery building and peruse through the souvenirs available in the brewery shop. If you have time, go on a brewery tour (reservation required). Learn about the sake brewing process and sake spirit while sipping the exquisite brew.

• Location: 19 Yanaginomoto, Ikenotani, Ooasa-cho, Naruto-shi, Tokushima
• Hours: 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Closed during the year-end and New Year holidays

Onsenzan Anrakuji - rest your body and soul in a traditional shukubo guesthouse

Anrakuji Temple is the first temple you will encounter during the pilgrimage that features a shukubo - a temple guesthouse that provides accommodations and meals for passing pilgrims. The temple is also famous for Anrakuji Onsen, a hot spring welling up next to the Daishido Hall, which houses a statue of Kobo Daishi. He was the one who discovered hot springs in the area and decided that the Yakushi Nyorai (Healing Buddha) should be enshrined in the temple.

Relax in the traditional Japanese-style rooms and nourish yourself with a hearty meal. Bathe in the onsen and wash away your aches and pains in the hot spring bath, just as pilgrims have done for some 400 years. Join a Buddhist service in the main hall and fully relish the sacred atmosphere of the temple.

• Location: 8 Hikino-aza Terno Nishikita, Kamiita-cho, Itano-gun, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Open year-round

Kawashima Sensui Bridge - relax surrounded by greenery all around

The Kawashima Sensui Bridge stretches for 304 meters and leads directly to Zennyujito Island, the largest river island in Japan. Located between Kirhataji Temple and Fujidera Temple, this bridge is a popular spot for those making the Shikoku pilgrimage.

Sensui means “flooded” as the bridge becomes completely submerged by the river when it rains. Pick a sunny day for your pilgrimage to fully enjoy your walk. Enjoy the spectacular view of the surrounding nature. Take deep breaths of fresh air as you gaze at the crystal-clear waters of the Yoshino River. This scenic spot offers a well-deserved rest from your long journey.

• Location: Kawashima, Kawashima-cho, Yoshinogawa-shi, Tokushima

Sashinzan Joushuuin Tairyuji - see spectacular vistas from high atop a mountain temple

Tairyuji Temple stands near the top of Mt. Tairyuji. In the olden days, pilgrims could only reach its lofty heights on foot. Modern-day pilgrims can easily access the temple through the Tairyuji Ropeway, the longest ropeway in western Japan.

The temple itself is famous as one of the special head temples of the Shingon Buddhist sect. See the beautiful main hall with magnificent carvings, a pagoda and Kannon statue, and a bronze statue of Kobo Daishi (known as “The Master of Meditation”). Immerse yourself in nature with a breathtaking view of the surrounding mountains and waters of the Kii Channel.

• Location: 2 Tatsuyama, Kamo-cho, Anan-shi, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Open year-round

Restaurant Bodaiju - eat a hearty meal in the Michi-no-Eki (roadside rest area) “Washi no Sato”

Rest and recharge with a delicious lunch from Restaurant Bodaiju's extensive menu. Located at the foot of the ropeway in the roadside rest area (Michi-no-Eki) called “Washi no Sato,” it’s the perfect place to visit before or after your pilgrimage to Tairyuji Temple.

Taste the local delicacy of kamikaze-don - a bowl of vinegared sushi rice, topped with ingredients such as egg, beans, ginger, and vegetables. This dish is a tasty and nutritious delight, sure to satiate the hungry pilgrim’s stomach. Noodle fans have a wide selection of udon noodle dishes to choose from, including tempura udon to curry udon. You can also try the famous kitsune soba - buckwheat noodles in soup topped with deep-fried tofu. Give your taste buds a treat, and fill yourself up to get ready for the next temple.

• Location: 89 Aza Tano, Wajiki-go, Naka-cho, Naka-gun, Tokushima
• Hours: 11:30 AM to 2:00 PM

Hakusuizan Iouin Byoudouji - receive the sacred water and feel the Buddhist spirit

Byodouji Temple is famous for its beautifully decorated colorful precincts. The Japanese word byoudou means “equal” and ji means “temple.” This particular temple signifies the wish of Kobo Daishi, who founded and named the temple - that the hearts and bodies of all people would be healed equally.

The temple's principal image is Yakushi Nyorai - the Buddha who cures all illnesses. You can behold this magnificent wood statue, traditionally lacquered and covered with gold leaves.

Many pilgrims visit the temple to receive the sacred water of Kobo Daishi - believed to cure all kinds of ailments. The gates of Byoudouji Temple always stand open for everyone.

• Location: 177 Akiyama, Aratano-cho, Anan-shi, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 AM
• Holidays: Open year-round

Iouzan Muryoujuin Yakuoji - ward off evil spirits and bad luck

Yakuoji Temple is the 23rd temple in the Shikoku Temple Pilgrimage and the last one within Tokushima Prefecture. It is well known for being a yakuyoke-dera - a temple visited to ward off ill fortune and evil spirits. Yakuoji remains a popular destination among pilgrims from all over Japan and abroad.

According to legend, the temple was originally founded by Gyoki, a monk in the early 8th century. In 815, Kobo Daishi came and carved the principal sculpture of Yakushi Nyorai, the Healing Buddha. Visitors can marvel at the magnificent pagoda and stunning vistas overlooking the sea. Make sure to include this last gem on this sacred journey.

• Location: 285-1 Teramae, Okugawachi, Minami-cho, Kaifu-gun, Tokushima
• Hours: 7:00 AM to 5:00 PM
• Holidays: Open year-round

How to get to Shikoku

From Japan's major airports, including Tokyo, Osaka, and Kyoto, take a flight to Tokushima Awaodori Airport. From there, take the Naruto Aizumi Line to Naruto Station. Transfer to the Naruto Line and ride until Ikenotani Station. Transfer to the Kotoku Line and ride until Bandō Station. Ryozenji Temple is a 10-minute walk from there.

Walking the sacred paths of the Shikoku Pilgrimage

The Shikoku Pilgrimage offers some stunning views and symbolic places. You may visit each temple separately as you explore the different shrines and temples in Japan or walk the whole path from start to finish. Embarking on this journey is a meaningful way to learn more about these sacred Buddhist sites as well as immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.

Go on the Shikoku Pilgrimage with the help of the Japan Explorer Pass.