Welcome to Shikoku, Japan’s best-kept secret island no person talks about – however everybody needs to be. Translating to ‘4 lands,’ Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s principal islands, but it’s massive on magnificence and journey. However don’t count on a bullet prepare zipping you across the island as a result of Shikoku prides itself on being essentially the most rugged, distant, and refreshingly under-traveled of Japan’s islands. Fewer roads, fewer crowds – extra attraction.
I first heard of Japan’s Shikoku Island after I had completed the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage and was in search of different hikes to the Camino de Santiago in different international locations. The Shikoki 88 Temple Pilgrimage was one of many choices. After I heard about this multi-month Pilgrimage round an obscure island in Japan climbing from temple to temple – I used to be instantly intrigued.
Shikoku provides three issues I like essentially the most about journey—it’s off the overwhelmed path, stuffed with cultural alternatives, and has a improbable long-distance climbing journey. I knew Shikoku could be on my itinerary the subsequent time I visited Japan!
Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
Let’s discuss slightly about what put Shikoku ‘on the map’ for many journey journey people—the 88 Temple Pilgrimage. The 750-mile hike covers numerous landscapes, together with mountains, forests, coastal paths, and roads. It’s certainly a rugged and difficult expertise. It’s believed that Kōbō Daishi (akaKūkai), a Buddhist monk who lived throughout the early Heian interval, made this journey initially. Kōbō Daishi is credited with founding the Shingon faculty of Buddhism and is deeply revered in Japan for his teachings and contributions to Japanese tradition.
The route takes you thru Shikoku’s 4 prefectures: Tokushima, Kagawa, Ehime, and Kochi. The journey by means of these 4 areas is likened to a symbolic path to enlightenment, with temples 1–23 representing the concept of awakening, 24–39 austerity and self-discipline, 40–65 attaining enlightenment, and 66–88 getting into nirvana. This development mimics Buddha’s path to enlightenment.
Nevertheless, just like the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, you don’t must be religious or Buddhist to hike the path. Anybody can do it for any cause. I needed to hike it to immerse myself in Japan’s tradition, eat fabulous meals, expertise the kindness of strangers, and see lovely landscapes.
Surprisingly, I might by no means carve out two months of time to hike the complete route, however it nonetheless remained on my journey want listing. As an alternative, I hiked the Kumano Kodo in Japan—one other pilgrimage that solely took 5 days—a lot simpler to suit into my busy journey schedule.
The best way to Expertise the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
There’s multiple option to sort out the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage! Whether or not you’re hoofing it the old-school manner, cruising alongside on a motorbike, or taking the trendy strategy by automobile, the selection is yours. I used to be stunned once I ran into some Japanese pilgrims at one temple, and so they casually talked about they have been doing the entire thing by automobile. However guess what? That’s really fairly widespread! Most Japanese pilgrims go for the automobile route, whereas 80% of the courageous souls strolling the complete 750 miles are, actually, foreigners. So whether or not you’re chasing enlightenment on foot or simply road-tripping your manner by means of, Shikoku’s acquired choices for each form of pilgrim.
How one can expertise one of the best of the Shikoku 88 Temple Hike
In the event you additionally don’t have 2 months to put aside and hike the complete route, you are able to do the ‘better of’ hikes of the Pilgrimage. Oku Japan provides a number of self-guided choices so that you can select from. I even have a reduction code you should utilize for those who guide with them!
Once you guide on their web site, enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests area, and they’ll apply a 5% low cost to any of their journeys.
Be taught extra in regards to the hike
Iya Valley
Shikoku Island isn’t simply in regards to the 88 Temple hike—enter the Iya Valley, Japan’s reply to time journey. Tucked deep within the mountains, this distant slice of paradise is so off the overwhelmed path that even GPS may wrestle. Count on jaw-dropping pure magnificence, slim river gorges, historic vine bridges, and sizzling springs so stress-free that you simply’ll overlook what century you’re in. It’s like stepping 100 years again in time—till your abdomen reminds you you’re on a winding highway that looks like a rollercoaster! The Iya Valley is infamous for its twisty, turny roads, so pack your sense of journey (and perhaps some Dramamine)!
The valley’s inaccessibility led to its use as a hideaway within the late twelfth century for members of the Heike clan. After being defeated, they reportedly fled to Iya Valley, which paved the best way for the primary samurai authorities in Kamakura, close to Tokyo.
There are a number of highlights to see and expertise within the Iya Valley, so make sure you plan one to 2 days there to absorb all the sweetness…and slightly quirkiness!
Learn 8 Locations to Get Off the Crushed Path in Japan
Don’t Miss These 10 Experiences in Shikoku
In the event you aren’t able to decide to a 60-day hike, you’ll be able to nonetheless go to Shikoku and fill your itinerary with a mixture of distinctive experiences. That is how I visited the island. With Oku Japan’s experience, I organized a multi-day tour to see one of the best of Shikoku, together with a few of the 88 Temple hikes, the Iya Valley, and different particular cultural experiences which you can solely discover on Shikoku Island. Right here’s what I like to recommend.
1. Go to Temple 1 Ryozen-ji
Even for those who aren’t a hiker, I counsel you continue to study in regards to the 88 Temple Pilgrimage by going to the start temple, Ryozen-ji. Right here, you’ll be able to study extra in regards to the tradition and spirituality behind the hike and luxuriate in a tranquil temple expertise. Plus – you’ll see a number of pilgrims beginning off on their journey. That is the place they collect their conventional pilgrim clothes, strolling stick, and goshuin guide to gather temple ‘stamps’ alongside the best way.
2. Get Your Palms Soiled and Attempt Indigo Dying
The province of Awa is a area with a centuries-old historical past of indigo cultivation and dyeing. Tokushima’s feudal lord, Hachisuka Iemasa, protected and inspired indigo dye manufacturing, which led to Tokushima’s indigo dyeing flourishing and turning into identified all through Japan and the world.
You’ll have the chance to get ‘hands-on’ and study all in regards to the conventional dying technique often known as honaizome dyeing, which has been handed down for the reason that Edo interval. It makes use of pure lye fermentation and is unbelievable to see…and scent!
I visited the Sato Awa Indigo Manufacturing unit and met Sato Akito, the Nineteenth-generation (sure…19 generations!) indigo dyer. He not solely took us by means of the complete means of how the plant is damaged down, fermented, and changed into indigo dye, however he additionally taught us how one can dye a bandana scarf and put our personal designs on it!
Our completed bandanas have been cute – nonetheless, it was unbelievable (and humbling) to see Sata Akito dying work. His creativity and designs have been exact. I used to be amazed at how he created the designs by dipping the fabric in a vat. He’s well-known for his kimono work.
Be taught extra in regards to the Aizome Indigo dyeing expertise
3. Stroll over Kazurabashi Vine Bridge – Iya Valley
Deep within the Iya Valley river gorge, you’ll be able to step again in time and stroll throughout a swinging bridge made totally of vines. Effectively,…largely of vines. The bridge represents what it might have been like 800 years in the past after they have been first constructed. Constructed by samurai who fled to Shikoku after the Genpei Battle, 3 of the 13 bridges nonetheless stay over the Iya River.
For security causes, they added just a few hidden metal cables for stability. So, as you stand on the foot of the bridge, able to cross, be assured that it might look flimsy, however it’s protected! The bridges are rebuilt each 3 years. The vines are collected in autumn, steamed, and twisted into form by hand. It’s an unbelievable website to see…and stroll throughout. Simply get there early, as traces shortly begin forming on the ticket sales space!
4. Be Entertained at Ochiai Scarecrow Village – Iya Valley
No, this isn’t a haunted Japanese village, however it’s bizarre. A village of 27 individuals and 350 scarecrows is price a go to – proper? Nagoro village is an ageing village that has give you a option to breathe new ‘life’ into its inhabitants. The ‘new’ inhabitants is life-sized figures made of fabric and full of newspapers.
It was startling to see the life-size ‘scarecrows’ in teams in locals’ yards as we pulled into Nagoro. However after we walked into the previous elementary faculty and noticed lots of of scarecrows within the gymnasium attending promenade, enjoying music as a part of the band, and easily hanging out, it was simply plain bizarre.
What began as a option to preserve the birds from consuming vegetation in her yard has multiplied into a preferred vacationer cease. Tsukimi Ayano began creating the scarecrows after she returned to the village to care for her father and located it virtually empty. Now, it’s stuffed with scarecrows and curious vacationers!
I had the pleasure of assembly Ayano at her residence and seeing certainly one of her works in progress.
5. Keep In a single day at a Temple and Tub in Sacred Waters
Even for those who don’t hike the 88 Temples, you’ll be able to nonetheless spend the evening in a temple and study extra about Japanese spirituality. Temple 6, Anrakuji, provides a really genuine expertise of sleeping on tatami mats (in addition they have rooms with beds) that may be booked by vacationers and pilgrims. A stunning dinner and breakfast are included, and you may even take part in a particular prayer service.
The temple lodging additionally embrace an onsen. This sacred spring is alleged to have been found by Kobo Daishi himself! The new spring water, which led to the temple’s building right here, is alleged to be efficient in treating neuralgia, muscle ache, and restoration.
After we had a pleasant soak and scrumptious dinner assembly different pilgrims, I participated in a particular prayer occasion that the monks hosted after dinner.
We honored a liked one who had handed by writing their identify, age and a want on a bit of wooden. I selected my good friend Jane, who handed away from most cancers just a few years in the past. After the monks chanted for quarter-hour, we entered a sacred a part of the temple to the touch the Buddha. Then, we lit a candle, positioned it in a small stream, and watched it float downstream, symbolizing the spirit’s journey to the afterlife. It was a surreal and delightful second, and although Jane by no means made it to Japan, I used to be glad to have her there in spirit for such a particular expertise.
6. Get pleasure from a Kaiseki Meal in Tokushima Metropolis
Is it artwork, or is it meals? In Japan, generally it’s exhausting to inform. Considered one of my favourite issues about this nation is the meals, and the crown jewel of Japanese delicacies needs to be a kaiseki meal. Get able to be amazed—not simply by the sheer variety of tiny, intricate plates that preserve arriving—however by the mind-blowing freshness and a spotlight to element in each chunk. Every dish is sort of a masterpiece… that you simply get to eat!
Kaiseki is a set-course meal chosen by the chef to spotlight a particular seasonal theme. I went in September, so the autumn harvest meals have been highlighted. It usually begins with appetizers, adopted by sashimi, cooked dishes, a rice course, and at last, dessert. You will get kaiseki in lots of locations, however if you’re in search of a particular expertise, then go for this lovely meal in Tokushima Metropolis in Shikoku.
We went to Sasanosho – a standard Japanese restaurant in a peaceable setting. We had our personal room and sat on tatami mats to eat – a standard option to dine in Japan. Every dish at Sasanosho was served by an attractive lady in a kimono. The colourful and delicate dishes have been usually served with contemporary flowers. It is a probability to have an genuine Japanese Kaiseki expertise that I hope everybody who visits Japan can have.
Learn Tokyo Off the Crushed Path
7. Day Hike Temple 20 Kakurinji to Temple 21 Tairyuji
If you’re visiting Shikoku, it is best to a minimum of attempt one of many iconic hikes alongside the 88 Temple Pilgrimage. You are able to do a day hike between T20 – Kakurinji to T21 Tairyuji and expertise some of the lovely hkes on the complete circuit. Nevertheless – I’ll admit the hike is more difficult – most likely a reasonable to superior stage hike – however it’s so price it! Whole distance is 3.5 miles.
Temple 20 Kakurinji is a scenic temple on the high of Mt. Washigao at 1500 ft. You’ll begin on the distinctive 3 storied pagoda and descend into the forest of big cedar, cypress, and pine bushes, some over 1,000 years previous. The path down is effectively maintained. You’ll descend all the way down to the river, the place you’ll discover a residence with an attractive bonsai tree backyard. From there, you’ll cross a bridge and begin climbing steeply alongside a stream to Temple 21 Tairyuji.
Tairyuji Temple, additionally known as the Temple of the Dragon, is stuffed with intricate carvings and a number of temples. It sits at 2000 ft. and has a particular connection to Kōbō Daishi. On the age of 15, it’s stated that he meditated on this summit for 50 days, reciting the Mantra of the Morning Star a million occasions.
In the event you don’t wish to do the gorgeous however difficult hike, you too can take a gondola as much as Tairyuji Temple and benefit from the historic buildings and huge views.
8. Step as much as the Kotohira Shinto Shrine
Probably the most well-known Shinto shrine in Shikoku is the Kotohira Shrine, which sits excessive above the city of Kotohira. Often known as the shrine for fishermen, it’s an astonishing constructing that can go away you questioning, ” How did they construct that?”
The shrine itself is gorgeous – however it is likely to be finest identified for its strategy. Be ready to climb up 785 stone steps to the primary Kotohira shrine constructing. And 700 extra steps, and also you’ll arrive on the hidden shrine within the forest. The panoramic view from the highest of the Sanuki Plain was well worth the climb!
Thankfully, there are various retailers, secondary shrines, fascinating examples of sculpture and structure, and different diversions on the best way, which offer an excuse for a break within the climb.
9. Dance at a Nakano Udon Class
Sanuki udon is a specialty of the Kagawa area. Folks journey from throughout Japan to eat udon in Kotohira. It’s identified for its firmness and taste, whose secret lies within the number of wheat produced within the space.
Certain – you may simply eat a scrumptious bowl of Sanuki udon, however why not additionally study to make it your self? I like cooking, so the chance to take a Udon cooking class was an awesome choice.
I shortly realized that this wasn’t any typical cooking class—it was a ridiculously enjoyable expertise stuffed with hands-on duties, dancing…sure, dancing…and comradery! I imply they’d this expertise dialed in – with so many social media’ moments’. It felt like I had stepped onto an iconic Japanese sport present set, and I used to be one of many contestants!
After you end making your dough, you’ll reduce it into noodles, prepare dinner it, and luxuriate in slurping up your scrumptious creation!
A particular observe if you’re feeling meals adventurous. After your class, attempt the inexperienced onion soy sauce ice cream you’ll discover everywhere in the streets of Kotohira!
10. Kanamaruza Kabuki Theater Tour
Whereas in Kotohira, go to the Konpira Grand Theatre, a restored Kabuki theatre and the oldest Kabuki theater in Japan. It was initially constructed in 1835 and continues to be in unbelievable situation. Kabuki performs are carried out for one month annually in April. Nevertheless, for those who aren’t visiting in April – you’ll be able to nonetheless stroll by means of the theater and discover Kanamaruza’s viewers corridor, stage, and dressing rooms. You should definitely try the basement to see the human-powered rotating stage and trapdoors actors use to dramatically enter and exit performances.
The best way to Go to the Finest Sights of Shikoku Island
How will you handle to see all these superb sights on Shikoku Island? Certain, you may spend hours researching, mapping out routes, and attempting to decode the native bus schedules.
Or – and listen to me out – you may simply let the consultants at Oku Japan deal with the heavy lifting. They’re an area tour firm, virtually legendary in Japan, and so they’ll plan every part whilst you sit again and benefit from the experience! Oku provides self-guided excursions, small group excursions, and even customized adventures. I went the customized route, and belief me, it included all one of the best stops – no stress required!
A self-guided itinerary that features a bit extra climbing however nonetheless visits many of those websites listed. Shikoku Self-guided 10 days
Both manner – I even have a reduction code you should utilize for those who guide with them!
Enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests area if you guide on their web site, and so they provides you with a 5% low cost on any of their journeys.
Whether or not you’re tackling the epic 88 Temple Pilgrimage or getting misplaced (hopefully not actually) within the beautiful Iya Valley, Shikoku offers you a style of Japan that feels untouched by time. With fewer vacationers and extra genuine vibes, this island is the final word hidden gem—so why not be one of many few within the know? It’s the Japan getaway you didn’t know you wanted till now!
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