Spiritual Island

Prologue

英 語

What is the Shikoku pilgrimage?

〜 Shikoku Henro 〜

Pilgrimage to the 88 Sacred Places

History of Esoteric Buddhism

The Shikoku pilgrimage route (or Shikoku Henro) is one of the few circular-shaped
pilgrimages in the world. It includes 88 ‘official’ temples and numerous other sacredsites where the Buddhist priest Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) is believed to have trained or havespent time during the 9th Century. If walked, the entire route is about 1,200 kilometers
long which allows one to experience the abundant natural surroundings of Shikoku andpresents one with numerous opportunities to mix with the local people. This pilgrimage
provides the an opportunity to reflect on one's life and to change for the better.
People’s motives for making this pilgrimage are varied. For example, some come forreligious reasons, some to pray for healing or safety in the home, or some in memory of
those who have passed away. As well, some come just to get away from regular life,
some for recreation, or some to spend time alone in reflection and to find oneself. To
people today, it is being re-discovered as a healing journey.
This pilgrimage should not be considered as a stamp relay, but as a religious journey.
Do not worry too much. Just take the first step and as you travel around, you will havetime to reflect on yourself and obtain something from this endeavor. The local people
will welcome you for your decision to embark on the Shikoku pilgrimage.

Map of the Spread of Buddhism.

1st

1st 〜 1st

TorufanGandhlra
3rd
Ajanta

6th
6th

〜 1st

Bamiyan

4th
YungangDunhuangLongmen

Tibet
Generation Of
Buddhism
5th

4th

5t

h

〜

Buddhism in Japan

History

Angkor Wat

CeylonThe first reference to the Shikoku pilgrimage appears in documents from around the12th Century; however, specific temples or route are not mentioned. The present
pilgrimage consisting of the 88 temples is thought to have formed between the late
16th and 17th Century. In the modern age with the development of roads, increasingly
more people are coming to make the pilgrimage either by car or bus. However, in
recent years the numbers of walking pilgrims have also been increasing.

1st : A.D.Century

Sumatra2nd : B.C.Century

6th

Jawa

Route of the Introduction of Buddhism

Borobudur

Main Buddhist relics

New edition: New Social History (p44) Tokyo Shoseki, 2006.

●

如来像 Nyorai Statues

He is one of the mostwell-known figures in Japanese
history and is accredited withmany great deeds. Throughout
Japan, one often hears his
name and one can visit the
many places that he is said tohave visited during his lifetime.
He became the 8th Patriarch of
Shingon Buddhism and actively
spread the teachings of thisnew religion in Japan. As well,
he is accredited with founding
Picture:the Shikoku pilgrimage and so,
Provided by Museum of Ehime History & Culture
people today believe that thisroute is a journey which follows
his footsteps. However, people also believe that Kōbō Daishi
accompanies pilgrims as they do the pilgrimage as shown by thephrase, dōgyō ninin (same practice, two people).
However, he is often called by the more familiar term, "O-Daishi-san",which demonstrates how close he is to the hearts of the people.

h

3rd

Hannya-shingyō (Kyōhon book)

Mt Kōya (elev.800m) is locatedin Wakayama prefecture, is theheadquarters of the Shingon
sect of Buddhism in Japan, andis where Kūkai / Kōbō Daishi isbelieved to have died. The town
has a population of about 3000
people and there are over 100
temples, many of which offer
accommodation to visitors. Manypilgrims come here to tell of theirintention to Kōbō Daishi before
commencing the Shikoku
pilgrimage, and some come here
to give a report and offer thanks
to him for his support andprotection after completing thepilgrimage.

This map provides a basic description of various topics related to the
Shikoku pilgrimage, but if you would like further information we suggestthat you contact one of the following public information associations where
English-speaking staff are available and / or look at the recommended
websites.

Government Tourism Agencies◆

Organization for Promotion of Tourism in Shikoku

2-1 Sunport, Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture 760-0019
https://shikoku-tourism.com/en E-mail：info@shikoku-tourism.com◆

Tokushima Prefecture Tourist Association

1 Hoji, Higashihama, Yamashiro-cho, Tokushima, Tokushima Prefecture 770-8055
https://discovertokushima.net/en/◆

Kagawa Prefecture Tourism Association

4-1-10 Bancho, Takamatsu, Kagawa Prefecture 760-8570
https://www.my-kagawa.jp/en◆

Ehime Prefecture Tourism Association

3-6-1 Okaido, Matsuyama, Ehime Prefecture 790-0004
https://www.visitehimejapan.com/en◆

菩薩像 Boddhisattva (Bosatsu) Statues
Boddhisattva statues can be identified by their crowns, necklaces,
earrings and other body decorations, and the things held in the hands
which are meant to be the tools for granting people’s wishes.

十一面観音菩薩: Jūichimen Kannon Bosatsu
聖 観 音 菩 薩 : Shō Kannon Bosatsu
地 蔵 菩 薩 : Jizō Bosatsu
千手観音菩薩: Senju Kannon Bosatsu

明王像 Myōō Statues
不動明王: Fudō Myōō

天部像 Deva Statues◆

Tokushima Prefectural International Exchange Association (TOPIA)
Clement Plaza, 6/F, 1-61 Terashimahon-chō , Tokushima City 770-0831
https://www.topia.ne.jp/
Phone: 088-656-3303(in JR Tokushima Station Building 6/F)◆

Takamatsu City Information Plaza

1-16 Hamano-chō, Takamatsu City, Kagawa Prefecture 760-0011
Phone: 087-851-2009(in JR Takamatsu Station)◆

Dōgo Tourist Information

6-8 Dōgo Yunomachi, Matsuyama City, Ehime Prefecture 790-0842
Phone: 089-943-8342(in front of Dōgo Onsen Station)◆“ i ” information Center

2-10-17, Kitahonmachi, Kochi City Kochi Prefecture 780-0056
Phone: 088-879-6400(in front of JR Kochi Station)

Recommended Website

http://shikokuhenrotrail.com/

Different Styles of a Shikoku pilgrim

There are many ways to make the Shikoku pilgrimage based on one’sschedule, physical health and budget.
●

Walking:

This will take about 6 weeks (approx. 30km/day) and cost about 400,000yen.
This is the most traditional way, but it takes the most time and money.
●

Charted bus:

This will take 10-12 days and cost about 250,000yen.
There is a variety of bus plans provided by travel and bus companies and ineach case an official guide (sendatsu) will accompany the group.
At present, there are no bus tours for non-Japanese.
If a non-Japanese would like to participate in a bus tour then sufficientJapanese ability is required.
●Car:

四 天 王: Four Heavenly Kings
金剛力士像: Statue of Kongō rikishi

https://henro88map.com/

Shikoku Henro Guide-Interpreter Association
https://shga45988.wixsite.com/website
March 2022

David Moreton

Research Theme: History of non-Japanese and the Shikoku Pilgrimage

The Shikoku pilgrimage route has been experiencing a boom inrecent years and it is said that annually 150,000 make the pilgrimage
by bus, car, motorcycle, bicycle, foot or other means. Not only
Japanese, but also an increasing amount of non-Japanese aredeciding to make the pilgrimage gear and do some or all of the
1,200-kilometer journey that circumambulates Shikoku. For thoseinterested in coming to Shikoku and participating in this centuries-old
pilgrimage that is believed to follow the footsteps of the great
Japanese Buddhist saint Kōbō Daishi (774-835), I recommend being
able to speak and understand a basic level of Japanese which willassist you when are booking a room, asking people for directions ortalking with the local people and other pilgrims (henro). Do not expect
anyone to be able to speak English or any other foreign language. As
well, become involved in the pilgrimage by wearing the white vest
(hakui) and / or using a staff. When people see that you are a henro,
they will treat you as such and you will be included into the culture of
selfless support (osettai). Also, remember that this is a religious
journey, not a stamp relay or a back-packing route. Please showrespect at each temple and every other sacred site you visit along theway. As a henro you will have the chance to go through big cities,
small towns and villages, to travel along the ocean, and to go up anddown numerous mountains, however, you might be surprised at theamount of time spent on asphalt.
I hope that you will come to Shikoku to experience the wonderful
Shikoku pilgrimage. Start from wherever and do as much or as little
as you can. Come and see Shikoku’s famous sites, eat its wonderful
cuisine and interact with the local people and other henro.

Deva Statues●

ENV Route
MLIT Route
Amalgamation(Bishamon-ten)
Temple No.19, Tatsueji● Kongō rikishi at Temple No.76, Konzōji

Backpacker

Japanese

Many people start at Temple 1, Ryōzenji in Tokushima prefecture,proceed in clockwise order and finish at Temple 88, Ōkuboji in Kagawa
prefecture. This method is called jun-uchi and it is easier to follow thepath markers this way. Others go in reverse order, called gyaku-uchi, butthere is no rule as to what order you visit the temples. Another method iscalled kugiri-uchi, which means completing a part of the pilgrimage at
one time. This is quite common because most people cannot easilyleave their everyday lives for a couple of weeks or longer. Thus some
visit the temples in one prefecture or some complete miniaturepilgrimages, ie between temples 13 and 17, or temples 71-77. It is
important to start and proceed at your own speed and in your own way.

Around each temple there are often other places to stay such as
minshuku or business hotels; however, since many places need toprepare meals for the guests, it is necessary to book a room ahead oftime. During the busy season, there is a chance that all rooms will be
full. At some places, it is possible to request for special regional
cuisine at the time of reservation.

There is an increasing amount of foreign Ohenro who are camping inundesignated areas which has the potential to cause friction with locals
and police. It is recommended to only camp in designated campgrounds,
or to stay in other accommodations. There are cheap and/or free places
to stay along the pilgrimage that are not mentioned in the official
literature as it is administratively very delicate and legally problematic.

Most of the people you will meet on your journey will not be able tounderstand English. However, if people are aware that you are a pilgrim(henro), they will do their best to help you with anything you need. The
language barrier is not insurmountable.
Many foreign ohenro use translation apps on their smart phone tocommunicate with locals and understand signage.

It is not necessary to use all of the following
items, which can be bought at various
temples and stores along the pilgrimage
route, but this is the traditional style of attire.
As a minimum, we recommended wearing a white vest and using a staff.
If so, people will recognize, welcome and assist you as a pilgrim. As
well, you will have more chances to talk with the local people.

Traffic Conditions

1 sedge hat （菅笠 / sugegasa）

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300
200

32.9℃

Maximum Temp
Minimum Temp

1.1℃

32.2℃

◆Kochi

350
mm
169
hour

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

(month)9 10 11 12

1

2

4

5

6

7

8

(month)●❸❹9 10 11 12

Offers a higher degree of service in a more traditional Japanese-style
type of accommodation than at a minshuku. Includes breakfast anddinner. Futon with shared bath.

●Business Hotel, HotelBusiness hotel is a hotel with small self-contained rooms. Bed with private bath.

●

ShukubōThese are lodging facilities run by temples and are mainly geared forgroups, however, if a room is available, single travelers arewelcome. Here one can participate in the nightly or morning service(otsutome) and hear the priest give a talk (hōwa). As well, one canobserve up-close the Buddhist statues and other religious artifacts
on display at each temple. (Includes breakfast and dinner. Futon or
bed with shared bath.)● Pass Marker

Meals
At Japanese-style accommodation facilities such as minshuku andryokan, breakfast and dinner is included. Western-style hotels are usually
located in urban areas where restaurants and supermarkets are plentiful.
Outside the cities, restaurants and shops are less common but there isno risk of running out of food. There are many places along the roadwhere you’ll have a chance to partake of Shikoku’s culinary specialties.

❶

Temple Accommodation
at Temple No.6, Anrakuji●

Minshuku

Washrooms

Once outside of urban areas, toilets may be moredifficult to find. Aside from the temples themselves,
you can make use of the facilities at train stations,convenience stores, community centers andcommunity parks.
Washrooms on the trail are marked in the English
guide/ ‘Shikoku Japan 88 Route guide’.

❷

Kochi
Prefecture

Ways of communication

It is advisable to limit the amountof cash carried. Credit cards are
becoming more widely
accepted, but Shikoku remains acash society. Every post office(even in small towns) has an
ATM which accepts mostinternational bank and credit
cards and transaction fees are
relatively low.
ATMs located in convenience
stores can also handle cash
● Post Office Sign and ATM
advances on major credit cards. (Post Office: International ATM Service)
Not all ATMs have the same operating hours
https://www.jp-bank.japanpost.jp/en/ias/en_ias_index.html

Places, such as hotels, convenience stores, restaurants, cafes andpublic facilities, with WIFI are increasing. As well, In some places there
are vending machines that sell SIM cards.
There are a few places to buy SIM cards in Shikoku.
Sometimes cell phone service might not be available in mountainous
regions.

How to get around
There are a variety of markers leading the way.
For example, stone markers - some of whichwere erected 300 years ago, wooden markers,
red circular or rectangular stickers or paper
hanging from tree branches.

110 (Police) / 119 (Ambulance)
These emergency numbers canbe called at no charge.
Whenever possible, have aJapanese speaker make the call.

Frederick Starr (1858-1933)

Staying at a temple

University of Chicago professor.
Completed half the pilgrimage in 1917
and the whole pilgrimage in 1921.

for example No.75 Zentsūji●"One unsaid rule of the pilgrimage
states that no matter where you go toplease help and support each other as
much as possible."●

Alfred Bohner●(1894-1958)

Traditional grilled rice cakesold at Temple 51●

A service in the Main hall is held either in the early evening before
dinner or early morning before breakfast. Most times sutras arerecited and then the priest gives a talk. This optional opportunity is agood chance to observe the cultural and historical artifacts in the Mainhall and to worship with other pilgrims.

Copying sutras

One participant from 1970 said:"...Japanese people recognize andrespect the henro in a wonderful way.
I found barriers torn down when I
became a pilgrim."
A participant from 1985 said that during
the pilgrimage:"One encounters a rich spectrum ofJapanese religious life, the beautiful scenery of Shikoku, and an
aspect of Japanese rural life the foreign visitor seldom sees."

Starting at Temple No 1.

Edo period(1603-1868)
path marker

7

Administration Office 納経所

6 The office where you can have your pilgrimage book (nōkyōchō)stamped and signed for 300yen is open all year round from 7am to5pm. Allow extra time here during the busy seasons.

●osamefuda

Main gate 山門

7 Exit the main gate on the left side, turn around, and bow once.

pilgrimage book (納経帳 / nōkyōchō)●Governmental
path markers●

This acts as proof that you have visited
each temple. Have it signed and stamped
after worshipping at each sacred site.

Volunteer Grouppath markers

At each temple along the pilgrimage route there are many
historical and artistic cultural properties which are definitely
worth seeing. For example,

Preface of the Lotus Sutra with each figure accompanied by a
Buddha Figure (National Treasure)Temple No. 75, Zentsūji (Map / F-3)
This document was written by Kōbō Daishi where between each lineof the sutra, he has drawn a picture of his mother, Tamayorigozen,
as a Bodhisattva.
Ishiteji Niōmon(National Treasure)Temple No. 51, Ishiteji(Map / C-5)

●

●

●

From the 2nd time walking the pilgrimage,
you only receive stamps, so the nokyocho
will slowly get more and more red as thestamps begin to cover the pages.

sugegasa

Awa Pilgrim Trail(Place of Scenic Beauty)(Map / I-4)
The path between Kakurinji(No.20) and Tairyūji (No.21) has
been devotedly maintained for
hundreds of years.

●

Motoyamaji Main Hall
(National Treasure)Temple No. 70, Motoyamaji.
(Map / F-3)
According to legend, Kōbō
Daishi constructed this building
in one night. It was restored in
1291 and is presently the only
building deemed as a nationaltreasure in Kagawa prefecture.

●

We ask that you:●

Provided by Shidoji
Picture story of the founding of Shidoji Temple(Important Cultural Property) The Kagawa Museum (Map / G-3)
When Fujiwara no Fuhito (659-720) was constructing Kōfukuji temple in Nara, his sister sent him
three treasure balls in memorial of their father who had passed away; however, as the boat
bearing these jewels passed through Shido Bay, the undersea dragon-god stole them. Fuhito
married a local woman diver whom he asked to retrieve the balls. She agreed if their son could
inherit the Fujiwara clan. She was successful in getting the treasures, but unfortunately died as aresult. Fuhito built his wife’s tomb by the seaside and later, his son, Fusasaki extended thetemple and named it Shidoji. This sad story has been drawn out on these paintings.

Temple No. 45, Iwayaji(Map / D-5)

Standing Statue of Kūya (Important Cultural Property)
Temple No. 49, Jōdoji (Map / C-5)
Kūya (903-962) is the founder of 'odori nembutsu' aritual dance and recitation of Nembutsu to achievesalvation. He stayed at this temple for three years
and when he left, the people of the village asked
that he carve a statue of himself. In his left hand heholds a staff with a deer antler on the top. Out of
his mouth emerge six images of Amida.

●

1) do not be a nuisance to other people.
2) do not take the custom of selfless support (osettai) for granted.
3) accept osettai graciously and give an osamefuda (nameslip) in return.
4) cheerfully greet other pilgrims and local people along your journey.
5) show respect to the temples, the inn keepers, and others.
6) do not litter and help keep the pilgrimage route in good shape for●

Garden of Temple No.15(Place of Scenic Beauty)(Map / H-4)
The garden behind the main hall;
separated into two areas representing
the ocean and other bodies of water
without the use of water. One of thebest gardens in Japan, Awa Aoishi, a
local famous stone, is skillfully placedon the embankment to create adynamic model.

●●

The temple (elev. 630m)
has a Main hall that
seems to protrude fromthe rising cliff beside it.
The area has been
designated as a Place of
Scenic Beauty.

Taking a break at a rest hut

Pilgrim manners

those that follow.

2

Daishi Hall 大師堂

5 Worship in the same way as at the Main hall.

Write your name, address, date and wish
on this and place it in the nameslip box at
the Main hall and Daishi hall. Give it topeople from whom you receive gifts.

(1915-2002)
Breathtaking view at early morning

5

Long term rental bikes:
https://cycleshikoku.com/"...if the pilgrimage is undertaken only forpleasure and without a loftier purpose, thepilgrim will soon lose the desire to continue.
...every year charitable hands are opened
along the pilgrim road, giving to the pilgrims
food, drink, and other gifts...this [custom] hasbeen going on for centuries."●

4
3

At the Main Hall, it is common to begin reciting in order the Heart
Sutra, then continue with the GoHonzon Shingon and Gohogo sutras.
However, it is all right to pray silently. Later on, you might start reciting
the sutras when you get used to hearing them.

This is symbolic of
the full Buddhist robeand shows one`s
devotion. Choose thecolour that you like.

nameslips（納札 / osamefuda）●●

appropriate box, light three sticks of incenseand one candle, place a donation in theoffertory box, stand to the left, put yourhands together, and recite the sutras.

Two American pilgrims during
cherry blossom season

Teacher at Matsuyama High school (1922-1928).
Completed the pilgrimage in 1927.

University of Hawaii professor.
Completed the pilgrimage in 1968
and 1971. Led student group tours in
1970, 1977, 1983, 1985.

Hall 本堂
4 MainPlace your nameslip and copied sutra in the（輪袈裟 / wagesa）

6

7 staff

Gold-plated copper staff ornament (National Treasure)Temple No. 75, Zentsūji (Map / F-3)
This ornament is attached to the staff used by
Buddhist priests. It is said that Kūkai received
this one from the priest Hui-kuo (Japan:
Keika) in China and brought it back to Japan.

A string of beads (juzu)
sold as a good luck charmwhen you leave. Note: some temples have
limited hours for ringing the bell.

6 stole（金剛杖 / kongōzue）●"This journey has been one of the mostinteresting experiences in my life."

tower 鐘楼
3 BellRing the bell once. It is bad luck to ring it

The bell should be rungafter each sutra is recited.

Cultural properties / Paintings / Sculptures / Art Work

Cool Experience

Receiving fruit from a local person.

put on your wagesa and juzu.

4 bell（持鈴 / Jirei）

This is said to be theembodiment of Kōbō Daishi,
who guides pilgrims around theroute. Formerly it was used as agrave marker for pilgrims who
passed away while on thepilgrimage.along the journey.

●

Safty tips
useful app

basin 水屋
2 WashWash your hands and mouth here, and then

（白衣 / hakui or Hakue）

1(頭陀袋/Zudabukuro)

Items such as
candles, incense,
nameslips,
pilgrimage book etc
are put in here.

hands together and bow once.

The white clothing worn by
the pilgrim represents purity
and innocence, however in thepast it also held the meaningof a death shroud, symbolizingthat the pilgrim was prepared
to die at any time.

5 bag

We recommended that you purchase travel insurance in case you
injure yourself or become ill while on the pilgrimage. But, even withinsurance you may be required to pay for the initial costs of the
medical fee, so keep some money aside for this possible emergency.
Shikoku is comparatively safe for walking travelers, but there is always apossibility that one could become a victim of a crime or be involved insome sort of accident. Individuals are responsible for their own actions.

Scenes from along the pilgrimage route●3 rosary （数珠 / juzu）
This is a very familiar religious
object to the Japanese. If you
hold this while holding yourhands together, it is said that theillusions of the mind will
disappear and good fortune
will come upon you.

Gate 山門
1 MainStand to the left of the main gate, put your2 white vest

It is useful to block the sun or rain. It is notnecessary to remove it when worshipping at asacred site or when talking with temple staff.

There are areas outside the cities, where public transportation, such as
trains and bus, are very infrequent. Please visit the public information
associations (listed on this map) for schedules or other useful travel
information such as what to do in case of trouble.
Bus and train timetables are posted in the English guide map ‘Shikoku
Japan 88 Route Guide’.

Money Planning

Proper etiquette at a temple

What to Wear

Medical treatment & Safety

Source: Takamatsu Local Meteorological Observatory

Three major figures in the history ofWesterners and the Shikoku Pilgrimage

RyokanKagawaPrefecture

Tokushima
Prefecture03

Small scale budget accommodation; meal services and room types
vary upon location, most have dormitory rooms as well.

●

100
0

❽

❺

10

1.1℃

❼

(℃)
30
20

Guesthouse

Few-days walking model courses

Ehime
Prefecture ❻Temperature, precipitation, hours of sunshine◆Takamatsu●① 4 days: Temple No.1 ― Temple No.17
First section where that you can get an overall ohenro impression② 3 days: Temple No.18 ― Temple No.23
Varied ohenro experience course: mountains, valleys and costal
hiking in Eastern Tokushima③ 3 days: Temple No.27 ― Temple No.33
Cycling road and scenic course along the spectacular Pacific Ocean④ 4 days: Temple No.37 ― Temple No.38
Majestic crushing waves of the Pacific Ocean course⑤ 4 days: Temple No.41 ― Temple No.44
Walking through old townscapes, traditional Japanese cultural course⑥ 3 days: Temple No.44 ― Temple No.51
Isolated temples in the highlands to the famous Dogo hot spring course⑦ 3 days: Temple No.65 ― Temple No.75
From temple #65 to the place where Kukai spent his childhood⑧ 3 days: Temple No.80 ― Temple No.88
Last 8 temples of the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage course

Weather

MinshukuThis is a small type of Japanese-style accommodation run by families
and is often nearby temples. Includes breakfast and dinner. Futon
with shared bath.

It might seem intimidating to walk for over a month in unknown land.
So why not try a 3 or 4 day Ohenro experience?

March - May and October - November are the best months for good
weather and comfortable temperatures.
The route along the Seto Inland Sea has the least amount of rainfall andthe route along the Pacific Ocean has the most.
There is not much difference in temperature between the Seto Inland
Sea side and Pacific Ocean side.

(mm)(hour)●

Oliver Statler

Western Henro pioneers since 1993, from left: Naoyuki Matsushita,
Tom Ward, David Turkington, David Moreton, Don Weiss.

Myōō Statues

Lodging

Using a combination of public transportation (train, bus etc) and walking.
Exclusively for non-Japanese there is an “All Shikoku Rail Pass” (3-7 days),which can be used on all railways in Shikoku. You can buy it once you arrivein Shikoku.

Hours of Sunshine
Rainfall

Shikoku Henro for Outside Japan
Shikoku Japan 88 Route Guide

Isolated Temple Kasagataki(Map / H-2)

The “Shikoku no Michi” route is a walking course around Shikoku
which, at times, makes use of the pilgrim trail allowing one to visit
the various temples along the route and to experience Shikoku.
There are two routes: 1) The Ministry of Environment (ENV) routefor those interested in nature and 2) The
Ministry of Land, Infrastructure andTransport (MLIT) route for those interested
in history and culture.

● Four Heavenly Kings

Danjō Garan (Kōyasan)(Map / L-3)●

Shikoku no Michi

Where to Start

This will take about 10 days and cost about 140,000yen. You can rent a carfrom the closest train station or airport, but make sure that you are familiar
with the rules of the road.
It might be possible to request a car with a navigational system that has
audio guidance in English or another foreign language.

Facebook Group: Ohenro San https://www.facebook.com/groups/30817087712/
How to make the pilgrimage & Guide Map Book

Temple No.1 Dōunzan(Map / H-2)

Practice and preparation in Shikoku

Other methods:

Tourist Information Desk●With an angry expression, he subdues evil.

四国八十八ヶ所霊場案内及名勝史蹟交通鳥瞰図 (吉田初三郎 1933) 提供：早稲田大学 道空間研究会

The above days and amount are estimates of costs while in Shikoku foraccommodation, food, transportation etc. and will vary according to theindividual and method of travel. If you are not walking, you will have to takea different route up the mountains.

1-2-20 Marunouchi, Kochi, Kochi Prefecture 780-8570
https://visitkochijapan.com/en

Boddhisattva (Bosatsu)
Statues

They protect Nyorai, Bosatsu and Myōōfrom the enemies of Buddhism.

A bird’s-eye view picture (made by Hatsusaburo Yoshida 1933) Provided by Waseda University

Note:

Kochi Visitors & Convention Association

Nyorai Statues

釈迦如来: Shaka Nyorai
阿弥陀如来: Amida Nyorai
薬師如来: Yakushi Nyorai 大日如来:
Dainichi Nyorai

Planning Ahead
Throughout the world and Japan there are numerous pilgrimage routes,
but the one that includes visiting eighty-eight temples on the island of
Shikoku in Japan is called the Shikoku Henro.

Shodoshima, an island in the seto inland sea, has an 88 temple
pilgrimage as well. There are circular, 88 temple pilgrimages all overJapan, but only Shodoshima has thesame Kukai foundation myth as themain 88 temple pilgrimage on Shikoku.
It takes about 1 week to walk (140km)
and is characterized by an abundanceof isolated, mountain cave temples
where one can feel the ocean breezeeven in the most remote areas.

This is an enlightened being and holds the highest position of all statues.

The importance of Kōyasan

https://shikoku-tourism.com/en

Shodoshima Pilgrimage

Introduction to the Main Deitiesof the 88 temples

It is thought that Buddhism came to Japan in either 538 or 552 from the
Korean kingdom of Baekje, however, Mikkyō came during the Tenpyo
period (729-749) and later, Kūkai organized its teachings and taught itto the common people. Presently, only in Japan and around Tibet isMikkyō believed by people to be a living religion and where priests
continue to pursue academic research of it. After Buddhism arrived toJapan it developed on its own and repeatedly broke into different
groups. As a result, people believed more in the founder of each newgroup than in the founder, Buddha. One example is Kūkai whoestablished Shingon Buddhism in Japan.
However, one common aspect among many sects of Buddhism is the
Hannya-shingyō (Heart Sutra), which is a sutra of 266 characters that
expresses the contents of the 600-volume Perfection of Wisdom texts.

8t

5th

Basic Information on
Buddhist Statues

Kōbō Daishi (Kūkai) (774-835)

Talking with school children

One popular aspect of the pilgrimage is the custom of copying sutras,
which is called shakyō. By focusing on writing each character, you
can calm your mind. Once a month Temple 75 Zentsūji holds a freeshakyō gathering, open to anyone, where interested participants
usually copy the Heart Sutra.

Treasure Building of Chikurinji (Map / F-6)
Seventeen Buddhist statues from the 9th to the
14th Century are on display. They are all
National Important Cultural Properties andconsist of more than one-third of all suchproperties in Kochi prefecture.

●

Treasure Hall of Temple No.26 (Map / G-6)
This temple have many national important culturalproperties such as Amida Nyorai Statue, Shingon
8 ancestors sculpture, various Mikkyo
equipments, Kongocho sutra and more.
Only temple No.26 and No.75 have so many
temple treasures in Shikoku.
(reservation required to see them)●