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The Shikoku Pilgrimage circumnavigates Shikoku Island across 1,200 kilometres, visiting 88 official temples and countless sacred sites along one of the most spiritually significant routes in Japan. This 8-day itinerary goes deeper into the spiritual and cultural heart of the island, adding visits to the onsen town of Matsuyama, the celebrated Dogo Onsen and the Yueda Valley.
Joining the Shikoku pilgrims known as Ohenro-san, walkers undertake the journey to atone for sins, pray for health and success and pursue enlightenment, motivations that have drawn people to this route for over 1,200 years. The walk moves through some of the most authentic and least developed landscapes in Japan, revealing a side of the country that few visitors ever see.
Highlights
- An extended, but easier and more accessible journey into the heart of the Shikoku Pilgrimage
- An ancient hike through Buddhist history together with an immersive Japanese cultural experience
- Hike with a light pack on ancient trails with wondrous views
- Marvel at the beautiful Temples along the way including Temple 43
- Walk some of the best of the Shikoku Pilgrimage on forest and mountain trails
- Options to vary the lengths of walks on some days should you prefer
- 7-night stay in Japanese accommodations (add an extra night in Matsuyama if you wish)
- Soak in the Dogo Onsens mineral waters and hike the Yueda Valley
- Enjoy traditional multi-course meals for breakfast each day and 3 dinners
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What's Included
Accommodation
Japanese-style room (3 nights), Ryokan (4 nights)
Transfers
- Luggage Transfers
- Train
- Taxi Transfer
Meals
7 breakfasts, 0 lunches, and 3 dinners
Guidance & Support
- Itinerary & Walk Notes
- Walking App for Navigation
- 24/7 on-trip support
How We Rate This Walk
Stroll Walking Level
Moderate to Challenging
Rated by our team — we walk every route before we recommend it.
Regular hills and varied terrain. These walks involve more challenging sections. Regular walking beforehand is recommended.
View Fitness Guide7
Days on the trail
4-21 km
Average per walking day
94-1377 m
Gain per day
2/10
Trail difficulty
Where You'll Stay
Accommodation across this walk spans seven nights in hotels and traditional Japanese inns, each one rooted in Japanese hospitality tradition while delivering modern comfort alongside. Most properties offer both Japanese tatami rooms with futons and Western-style alternatives, giving you flexibility in how you rest. Some have natural hot spring bath houses on-site, communal and separated by gender, and soaking in one after a day on the Shikoku trail is an experience worth having. Baths and toilets may be shared throughout. An optional extra night in Matsuyama can be arranged for those who would like more time to explore.
What You'll Eat
Four breakfasts and three dinners are included throughout the trip, with all meals served in traditional dining areas. Dinners take the form of a Kaiseki set meal, a carefully composed multi-course spread rooted in regional Japanese cooking, with a buffet option available at larger hotels. On evenings where dinner is not included, good eating establishments are within walking distance. Lunch is not included but can be found at local eateries, small supermarkets and cafes along the route.
Note: Please advise us of any food allergies or intolerances at the time of booking. If you have severe allergies, bringing some of your own snacks is recommended, as specialist ingredients can be harder to source along the way.
More About This Trip
Dates & Pricing
Choose Your Start Date
Pick any available date — this is your trip, your schedule
August 2026
September 2026
Prices shown are per person, twin/double share basis.
Notes
Available August onwards. For High Season Charges, see the More About This Trip section.
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