the Shikoku PiLGRIMAGE
3-DAYs TOUR
3-DAYs TOURhistory, heritage, culture & nature ALONG the Shikoku PiLGRIMAGE
Step beyond the ordinary on a luxury Ohenro pilgrimage with Shikoku Trail. Walk ancient paths guided by deeply experienced experts who bring history, heritage, culture, and nature vividly to life. Discover sacred temples, serene landscapes, and timeless traditions—all while enjoying exceptional comfort, insight, and care. A journey of spirit, learning, and refined adventure awaits.
special highlights
The starting point, Ryōzenji
For centuries, countless pilgrims have begun their spiritual journey around Shikoku at this revered temple. In days past, travelers from Osaka would arrive by boat at Muya Port—just 13 kilometers east of Ryōzenji—then follow the historic Muya Kaidō, a road alive with tradition and quiet beauty.
Even today, you can sense that timeless spirit: the scent of incense mingling with the sea breeze, temple bells echoing across Tokushima’s lush landscape. Beside the main gate stands a storied building where, for generations, visitors from Wakayama have offered mikans—sweet mandarin oranges—to passing pilgrims each spring.
It’s more than a beginning—it’s an immersion into the heritage, fragrance, and gentle warmth of Tokushima’s soul.
The Shosanji Temple ascent
Shosanji Temple is one of the most challenging mountain temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage, located at an elevation of around 700 meters.
It holds deep historical significance as a site where Kūkai is said to have undergone ascetic training and banished a dragon to a cave.
From the temple grounds, visitors can enjoy sweeping views of the Shikoku mountain ranges.
The 12-kilometer walking route between temple 11, Fujidera and this is one of the most arduous along the Shikoku Pilgrimage. There are many ascents and descents, but there are some interesting spots along the way to take a break including a place where in the past pilgrims could stay overnight and a place with a large of statue of Kobo Daishi.
Temple 21, Tairyūji
Located atop a mountain where the renowned Buddhist priest Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi, 774-835) is said to have once trained, the temple has long drawn the devotion of countless pilgrims.
Visitors can walk a forest trail or take a cable car - the longest in Western Japan - to visit the massive temple grounds with numerous historical buildings. On a clear day, view the surrounding forests, rivers and mountain, as the leaves rustle with the gentle blowing breeze. You’ll understand why Kukai picked this spot for meditation.
contact us for a free consultation
If you’re interested in the model tour, contact us through the ‘Book Now’ form, and begin your free communication with one of our experts.
We’ll help cater the experiences to your needs and wants, creating a truly personal and special trip.