Welcome to Shikoku, Japan’s best-kept secret island no person talks about – however everybody must be. Translating to ‘4 lands,’ Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s fundamental islands, but it’s huge on magnificence and journey. However don’t anticipate a bullet prepare zipping you across the island as a result of Shikoku prides itself on being probably the most rugged, distant, and refreshingly under-traveled of Japan’s islands. Fewer roads, fewer crowds – extra appeal.
I first heard of Japan’s Shikoku Island after I had completed the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage and was on the lookout for various hikes to the Camino de Santiago in different nations. The Shikoki 88 Temple Pilgrimage was one of many choices. Once I heard about this multi-month Pilgrimage round an obscure island in Japan mountain climbing from temple to temple – I used to be instantly intrigued.
Shikoku gives three issues I like probably the most about journey—it’s off the crushed path, stuffed with cultural alternatives, and has a implausible long-distance mountain climbing journey. I knew Shikoku can be on my itinerary the subsequent time I visited Japan!
Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
Let’s discuss a bit of about what put Shikoku ‘on the map’ for many journey journey of us—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 college 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 way of these 4 areas is likened to a symbolic path to enlightenment, with temples 1–23 representing the thought of awakening, 24–39 austerity and self-discipline, 40–65 attaining enlightenment, and 66–88 coming into nirvana. This development mimics Buddha’s path to enlightenment.
Nevertheless, just like the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, you don’t should be religious or Buddhist to hike the path. Anybody can do it for any motive. I wished to hike it to immerse myself in Japan’s tradition, eat fabulous meals, expertise the kindness of strangers, and see stunning landscapes.
Surprisingly, I may by no means carve out two months of time to hike the complete route, nevertheless it nonetheless remained on my journey want checklist. 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.
Find out how to Expertise the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
There’s multiple technique to sort out the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage! Whether or not you’re hoofing it the old-school method, cruising alongside on a motorcycle, or taking the trendy strategy by automobile, the selection is yours. I used to be shocked once I ran into some Japanese pilgrims at one temple, they usually casually talked about they have been doing the entire thing by automobile. However guess what? That’s truly fairly frequent! Most Japanese pilgrims go for the automobile route, whereas 80% of the courageous souls strolling the complete 750 miles are, in reality, foreigners. So whether or not you’re chasing enlightenment on foot or simply road-tripping your method by way of, Shikoku’s bought choices for each sort of pilgrim.
How one can expertise the very 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 gives a number of self-guided choices so that you can select from. I even have a reduction code you should use if you happen to guide with them!
Whenever you guide on their web site, enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests discipline, and they’ll apply a 5% low cost to any of their journeys.
Study 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 crushed path that even GPS may wrestle. Count on jaw-dropping pure magnificence, slender river gorges, historical vine bridges, and sizzling springs so stress-free that you simply’ll neglect what century you’re in. It’s like stepping 100 years again in time—till your abdomen reminds you you’re on a winding street that seems 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 you’ll want to plan one to 2 days there to absorb all the sweetness…and a bit of quirkiness!
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Don’t Miss These 10 Experiences in Shikoku
In the event you aren’t able to decide to a 60-day hike, you may 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 the very best of Shikoku, together with a number of the 88 Temple hike, the Iya Valley, and different particular cultural experiences that you could solely discover on Shikoku Island. Right here’s what I like to recommend.
1. Go to Temple 1 Ryozen-ji
Even if you happen to aren’t a hiker, I counsel you continue to be taught in regards to the 88 Temple Pilgrimage by going to the start temple, Ryozen-ji. Right here, you may be taught extra in regards to the tradition and spirituality behind the hike and revel 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 Arms 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 recognized all through Japan and the world.
You’ll have the chance to get ‘hands-on’ and be taught all in regards to the conventional dying methodology referred to 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 odor!
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 way of the complete means of how the plant is damaged down, fermented, and became indigo dye, however he additionally taught us learn how to 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.
Study 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 may step again in time and stroll throughout a swinging bridge made totally of vines. Properly,…principally of vines. The bridge represents what it could 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 a couple of 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 secure! 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 rapidly 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 folks and 350 scarecrows is value a go to – proper? Nagoro village is an growing older village that has give you a technique to breath new ‘life’ into its inhabitants. The ‘new’ inhabitants is life-sized figures made of fabric and filled with newspapers.
It was startling to see the life-size ‘scarecrows’ in teams in locals’ yards as we pulled into Nagoro. However once we walked into the outdated elementary college and noticed tons of of scarecrows within the fitness center attending promenade, enjoying music as a part of the band, and easily hanging out, it was simply plain bizarre.
What began as a technique 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 deal with 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 house and seeing one among her works in progress.
5. Keep In a single day at a Temple and Bathtub in Sacred Waters
Even if you happen to don’t hike the 88 Temples, you may nonetheless spend the evening in a temple and be taught extra about Japanese spirituality. Temple 6, Anrakuji, gives 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’ll even take part in a particular prayer service.
The temple lodging additionally embody an onsen. This sacred spring is claimed to have been found by Kobo Daishi himself! The new spring water, which led to the temple’s development right here, is claimed 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 chunk of wooden. I selected my buddy Jane, who handed away from most cancers a couple of 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 exquisite 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. Take pleasure in a Kaiseki Meal in Tokushima Metropolis
Is it artwork, or is it meals? In Japan, typically it’s laborious to inform. One in all my favourite issues about this nation is the meals, and the crown jewel of Japanese delicacies must 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 focus on a particular seasonal theme. I went in September, so the autumn harvest meals have been highlighted. It sometimes begins with appetizers, adopted by sashimi, cooked dishes, a rice course, and at last, dessert. You will get kaiseki in lots of locations, however in case you are on the lookout for a particular expertise, then go for this stunning meal in Tokushima Metropolis in Shikoku.
We went to Sasanosho – a conventional Japanese restaurant in a peaceable setting. We had our personal room and sat on tatami mats to eat – a conventional technique to dine in Japan. Every dish at Sasanosho was served by an attractive girl in a kimono. The colourful and delicate dishes have been usually served with recent flowers. This can be a probability to have an genuine Japanese Kaiseki expertise that I hope everybody who visits Japan can have.
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7. Day Hike Temple 20 Kakurinji to Temple 21 Tairyuji
If you’re visiting Shikoku, you need to no less than strive 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 one of the crucial stunning hkes on the complete circuit. Nevertheless – I’ll admit the hike is more difficult – most likely a average to superior degree hike – nevertheless it’s so value it! Complete 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 large cedar, cypress, and pine timber, some over 1,000 years outdated. The path down is nicely maintained. You’ll descend all the way down to the river, the place you’ll discover a house 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 referred to as the Temple of the Dragon, is filled 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 may as well 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. Referred to as the shrine for fishermen, it’s an astonishing constructing that may go away you questioning, ” How did they construct that?”
The shrine itself is gorgeous – nevertheless it may be greatest recognized for its strategy. Be ready to climb up 785 stone steps to the principle 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!
Fortuitously, there are lots of retailers, secondary shrines, fascinating examples of sculpture and structure, and different diversions on the best way, which give 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 recognized for its firmness and taste, whose secret lies within the number of wheat produced within the space.
Certain – you can simply eat a scrumptious bowl of Sanuki udon, however why not additionally be taught to make it your self! I like cooking, so the chance to take a Udon cooking class was an amazing possibility.
I rapidly 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 that they had 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, cook dinner it, and revel in slurping up your scrumptious creation!
A particular be aware in case you are feeling meals adventurous. After your class, strive the inexperienced onion soy sauce ice cream you’ll discover all around 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 remains to be in unbelievable situation. Kabuki performs are carried out for one month every year in April. Nevertheless, if you happen to aren’t visiting in April – you may nonetheless stroll by way of the theater and discover Kanamaruza’s viewers corridor, stage, and dressing rooms. Make sure to take a look at the basement to see the human-powered rotating stage and trapdoors actors use to dramatically enter and exit performances.
Find out how to Go to the Greatest Sights of Shikoku Island
How will you handle to see all these superb sights on Shikoku Island? Certain, you can spend hours researching, mapping out routes, and making an attempt to decode the native bus schedules.
Or – and listen to me out – you can simply let the consultants at Oku Japan deal with the heavy lifting. They’re an area tour firm, virtually legendary in Japan, they usually’ll plan every part when you sit again and benefit from the experience! Oku gives self-guided excursions, small group excursions, and even customized adventures. I went the customized route, and belief me, it included all the very best stops – no stress required!
Self-guided itinerary that features a bit extra mountain climbing however nonetheless visits many of those websites listed.Shikoku Self-guided 10 days
Both method – I even have a reduction code you should use if you happen to guide with them!
Enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests discipline while you guide on their web site, they usually offers you 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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