Welcome to Shikoku, Japan’s best-kept secret island no one talks about – however everybody ought to be. Translating to ‘4 lands,’ Shikoku is the smallest of Japan’s primary islands, but it’s large on magnificence and journey. However don’t anticipate a bullet practice 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 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 international locations.  The Shikoki 88 Temple Pilgrimage was one of many choices. Once I heard about this multi-month Pilgrimage round an obscure island in Japan mountaineering from temple to temple – I used to be instantly intrigued.

Shikoku gives three issues I like essentially the most about travel—it’s off the crushed path, stuffed with cultural alternatives, and has a improbable long-distance mountaineering journey. I knew Shikoku can be on my itinerary the following time I visited Japan!

Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage

Let’s discuss just a little about what put Shikoku ‘on the map’ for many journey journey folks—the 88 Temple Pilgrimage.  The 750-mile hike covers various landscapes, together with mountains, forests, coastal paths, and roads. It’s certainly a rugged and difficult expertise. It’s believed that Kōbō Daishi (akaKÅ«kai), a Buddhist monk who lived through 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 via 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 coming into nirvana.  This development mimics Buddha’s path to enlightenment.

Nevertheless, just like the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage, you don’t must be non secular or Buddhist to hike the path.  Anybody can do it for any purpose. 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 might by no means carve out two months of time to hike your complete route, nevertheless it nonetheless remained on my journey want record. As a substitute, 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 way to Expertise the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage

There’s a couple of solution to deal with the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage! Whether or not you’re hoofing it the old-school manner, cruising alongside on a motorcycle, or taking the fashionable method by automotive, 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 had been doing the entire thing by automotive. However guess what? That’s truly fairly widespread! Most Japanese pilgrims go for the automotive route, whereas 80% of the courageous souls strolling your complete 750 miles are, in truth, foreigners. So whether or not you’re chasing enlightenment on foot or simply road-tripping your manner via, Shikoku’s obtained choices for each form of pilgrim.

How one can expertise the very best of the Shikoku 88 Temple Hike
When you additionally don’t have 2 months to put aside and hike your 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 need to use when you ebook with them!
While you ebook on their web site, enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests discipline, and they’re going to apply a  5% low cost to any of their journeys.
Be taught extra concerning the hike

Iya Valley

Shikoku Island isn’t simply concerning 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 would possibly battle. Count on jaw-dropping pure magnificence, slender river gorges, historical vine bridges, and scorching springs so stress-free that you just’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 highway that looks like a rollercoaster! The Iya Valley is infamous for its twisty, turny roads, so pack your sense of journey (and possibly 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 way in which 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 to plan one to 2 days there to absorb all of the beauty…and just a little quirkiness!

Learn 8 Locations to Get Off the Overwhelmed Path in Japan

Don’t Miss These 10 Experiences in Shikoku

When 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 the very best of Shikoku, together with a number of the 88 Temple hikes, the Iya Valley, and different particular cultural experiences you can solely discover on Shikoku Island. Right here’s what I like to recommend.

1. Go to Temple 1 Ryozen-ji

Even when you aren’t a hiker, I counsel you continue to study concerning the 88 Temple Pilgrimage by going to the start temple, Ryozen-ji.  Right here, you’ll be able to study extra concerning 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 ebook to gather temple ‘stamps’ alongside the way in which.

2. Get Your Fingers 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 study all concerning the conventional dying methodology often called 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 (yes…19 generations!) indigo dyer. He not solely took us via your complete means of how the plant is damaged down, fermented, and become indigo dye, however he additionally taught us the best way to dye a bandana scarf and put our personal designs on it!

Our completed bandanas had been cute – nonetheless, it was unbelievable (and humbling) to see Sata Akito dying work.  His creativity and designs had 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 concerning 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 solely of vines. Nicely,…principally of vines. The bridge represents what it will have been like 800 years in the past after they had been first constructed.  Constructed by samurai who fled to Shikoku after the Genpei Struggle, 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 strains 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 old village that has give you a solution to breathe new ‘life’ into its inhabitants.  The ‘new’ inhabitants is life-sized figures made of material and filled with 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 outdated elementary college and noticed tons of of scarecrows within the gymnasium attending promenade, taking part in music as a part of the band, and easily hanging out, it was simply plain bizarre.

What began as a solution to preserve the birds from consuming crops in her yard has multiplied into a preferred vacationer cease. Tsukimi Ayano began creating the scarecrows after she returned to the village to handle her father and located it virtually empty. Now, it’s crammed with scarecrows and curious vacationers!

I had the pleasure of assembly Ayano at her house and seeing one in every of her works in progress.

5. Keep In a single day at a Temple and Tub in Sacred Waters

Even when you don’t hike the 88 Temples, you’ll be able to nonetheless spend the night time in a temple and study 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 beautiful dinner and breakfast are included, and you may 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 beloved one who had handed by writing their title, age and a want on a bit of wooden. I selected my good friend 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. Certainly one of 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 chew. Every dish is sort of a masterpiece… that you just get to eat!

Kaiseki is a set-course meal chosen by the chef to spotlight a selected seasonal theme. I went in September, so the autumn harvest meals had been highlighted. It sometimes begins with appetizers, adopted by sashimi, cooked dishes, a rice course, and eventually, dessert. You may 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 standard Japanese restaurant in a peaceable setting. We had our personal room and sat on tatami mats to eat – a standard solution to dine in Japan. Every dish at Sasanosho was served by an attractive girl in a kimono.   The colourful and delicate dishes had been typically served with contemporary flowers.  It is 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 must at the least 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 probably the most stunning hkes on your complete circuit.  Nevertheless – I’ll admit the hike is tougher – most likely a average to superior degree hike – nevertheless it’s so value 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 outdated.  The path down is effectively 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 mentioned that he meditated on this summit for 50 days, reciting the Mantra of the Morning Star a million instances.

When you don’t wish to do the attractive however difficult hike, you can even 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 depart you questioning, ” How did they construct that?”

The shrine itself is gorgeous – nevertheless it is likely to be greatest recognized for its method.  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 a lot of outlets, secondary shrines, fascinating examples of sculpture and structure, and different diversions on the way in which, 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.

Positive – you could possibly 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 a fantastic choice. 

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 they’d this expertise dialed in – with so many social media’ moments’.  It felt like I had stepped onto an iconic Japanese recreation present set, and I used to be one of many contestants!

After you end making your dough, you’ll minimize it into noodles, cook dinner it, and luxuriate in slurping up your scrumptious creation!

A particular observe in case you are 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 remains to be in unbelievable situation. Kabuki performs are carried out for one month annually in April. Nevertheless, when you aren’t visiting in April – you’ll be able to nonetheless stroll via the theater and discover Kanamaruza’s viewers corridor, stage, and dressing rooms. You’ll want to take a look at the basement to see the human-powered rotating stage and trapdoors actors use to dramatically enter and exit performances.

The way to Go to the Greatest Sights of Shikoku Island

How will you handle to see all these wonderful sights on Shikoku Island? Positive, you could possibly spend hours researching, mapping out routes, and attempting to decode the native bus schedules.

Or – and listen to me out – you could possibly 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 all the pieces when you sit again and benefit from the trip! 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!

Oku Shikoku group excursions

A self-guided itinerary that features a bit extra mountaineering however nonetheless visits many of those websites listed. Shikoku Self-guided 10 days

Both manner – I even have a reduction code you need to use when you ebook with them!
Enter the code OTTSWORLD5 within the notes and particular requests discipline once you ebook on their web site, they usually will provide 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 gorgeous Iya Valley, Shikoku provides 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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