Hello, I’m Taka, the author of this blog.
I have completed the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage on foot twice, including both clockwise and counterclockwise routes.
The area from Temple 1 to Temple 11 in Tokushima Prefecture is the starting point of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, and it is an important section for choosing accommodation for both walking and driving pilgrims. In this article, I have organized recommended accommodations by area based on my personal experience.
By using this guide, you can reduce uncertainty when selecting accommodation in the early stages of Tokushima and start your pilgrimage in a smooth and comfortable way.
Find accommodation
Clicking the button will take you to the relevant section in the article.
Accommodation near Temple 1
Naruto Ohenro
| Nearest Temple | No. 1 (0.2 km) |
| Nearest Station | Bando (0.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Big house
| Nearest Temple | No. 1 (0.4 km) |
| Nearest Station | Bando (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Accommodation near Temples 5-7
Morimotoya
| Nearest Temple | No. 5 (1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Itano (4 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Temple 6: Anrakuji
| Nearest Temple | No. 6 (0 km) |
| Nearest Station | Itano (10 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Donari Onsen Tabi no Yado
| Nearest Temple | No. 7 (0.1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Itano (10 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Accommodation near Temple 9
Access Awa
| Nearest Temple | No. 9 (1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (4 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Tabi no Yado
| Nearest Temple | No. 9 (0.4 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (4 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Accommodation near Temple 11
Pine House
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Channel Kan
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Central Hotel Kamojima
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (4 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (0.1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Hostel OE
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (4 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (0.1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Access Kamojima
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (0.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Oyado Eleven
| Nearest Temple | No. 11 (0.2 km) |
| Nearest Station | Kamojima (4 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
Check Booking Sites
Key Points of This Area
The area from Temples 1 to 11 in Tokushima is the starting point for many pilgrims on the first day of the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Since it is the first day of the journey, the accommodation choice often varies depending on what time pilgrims arrive in the area.
As it is close to urban areas, there are relatively many restaurants, convenience stores, and supermarkets along the pilgrimage route, so finding food and supplies is generally not a problem.
Convenient Accommodation for Those Arriving the Day Before
It is recommended to stay at accommodation around Tokushima Station. From JR Tokushima Station, it takes about 20 minutes to reach Bando Station, the nearest station to Temple 1.
Since the temple office (nokyosho) opens at 8:00 a.m., leaving around 7:00 a.m. allows you to start your pilgrimage smoothly and efficiently without wasting time.
Recommended Accommodation for Car Pilgrims
Shukubo at Anraku-ji Temple (Temple 6)
Anraku-ji Temple offers temple lodging (shukubo) and is popular among pilgrims because it also features a hot spring bath. It is relatively affordable and easy to stay at, making it a convenient option for many pilgrims.
Highly Recommended Accommodation: Oyado Eleven
Oyado Eleven is a popular base before heading to Temple 12, Shosan-ji. Shosan-ji is known as one of the most challenging sections of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, so it is important to rest well before tackling the long mountain path.
The inn is clean and has a calm atmosphere, with facilities and information well-prepared for pilgrims. Meals and supplies are also reliable, making it an easy and comfortable place to stay, especially for first-time pilgrims preparing for the next day’s challenge.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- QAre there accommodations easily available near Temple 1 in Tokushima?
- A
Yes. There are several guesthouses and minshuku around Bando Station and the Naruto area, so it is relatively easy to find accommodation. However, it is recommended to book in advance during the pilgrimage season due to higher demand.
- QShould I stay near Tokushima Station on the first night?
- A
Yes, staying near Tokushima Station is convenient, as it allows you to reach Bando Station in about 20 minutes the next morning and start your pilgrimage at Temple 1 without difficulty.
- QAre there many accommodations near Temple 11?
- A
Yes. Around Kamojima Station, there are several business hotels and guesthouses, offering a good number of options. This area is often used as a base before heading toward Shosan-ji Temple (Temple 12).
Summary
The area from Temples 1 to 11 in Tokushima Prefecture is the starting section of the Shikoku Pilgrimage and an important region where many pilgrims first consider accommodation. With easy access to urban areas and a wide range of lodging options, it allows flexible planning depending on your itinerary.
In particular, staying around Tokushima Station is convenient for the night before starting, as it provides easy access to Temple 1 the next morning, enabling a smooth and relaxed start to the journey. In addition, choosing accommodations closely linked to the pilgrimage route—such as the shukubo at Anraku-ji Temple (Temple 6) or Oyado Eleven near Temple 11—helps ensure a more stable and manageable pilgrimage both physically and logistically.
Since accommodation choices on the first day can vary depending on travel time and arrival schedule, it is important to prepare in advance by identifying potential options. Thoughtful and flexible planning will contribute greatly to a more comfortable overall pilgrimage experience.
Related Articles
A detailed guide to accommodation options on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, including costs and how to choose the right place to stay.
Shikoku Pilgrimage Accommodation Guide