Hello, I’m “Taka,” the author of this blog.
I have walked the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage twice, completing both the standard (forward) route and the reverse route.
The section from Temple 40, Kanjizai-ji, toward Uwajima includes some of the more challenging parts of the pilgrimage, such as crossing Kashiwasaka Pass (elevation 500 m) and Matsuo Pass (elevation 200 m).
On the other hand, the Ainan and Sukumo areas are dotted with pilgrimage lodges, guesthouses, and hot spring inns, allowing travelers to plan their journey at a comfortable pace.
In this article, I introduce recommended accommodations around Temple 40 and the Ainan area based on my experience walking the pilgrimage twice.
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Accommodation near Temple 40
Ipponmatsu Onsen Akebono So
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Select
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (9 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
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Omoriya
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (9 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Kinoiro Minimal
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (9 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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KAI Ainan
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (6 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Aoi Kuni Hotel
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (0.5 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Yamashiroya
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (0.1 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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HOTEL AZ Ehime Ainan
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (1 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Accommodations around Kashiwasaka Pass
Kameya
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Kashiwasaka
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Kashiwa
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Nishi Yugyo Center
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (19 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Accommodations around Matsuo Pass
Sunada no Ie
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (24 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Yoshinoya
| Nearest Temple | No. 40 (24 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Highlights of this area
The key feature of the Ainan area is that it includes two challenging mountain passes: Kashiwasaka Pass (elevation 500 m) and Matsuo Pass (elevation 200 m).
However, accommodations are available in towns along the route, so if you choose your stops wisely according to your itinerary, you can complete this section without excessive strain.
In addition, once you reach Uwajima, you can use train services, and you will also find plenty of restaurants and hotels, making it a convenient area for resupplying and resting.
Matsuo Pass entrance
Matsuo Pass
Recommended accommodation for car pilgrims
Ipponmatsu Onsen Akebonosou
For those traveling by car, Ipponmatsu Onsen Akebonosou is highly recommended.
This hot spring inn is located in Ainan Town and offers easy access along with a spacious parking area, making it convenient for car pilgrims. It is an ideal place to relax and recover from long-distance travel.
The large public bath includes a sauna and bubble baths, making it a perfect stop to rest during your pilgrimage journey. At the on-site restaurant, you can also enjoy local specialties such as “biyabiyakatsuo” (fresh bonito).
With reasonably priced accommodation and the opportunity to enjoy both hot springs and meals at a relaxed pace, it is an excellent choice for travelers seeking comfort and value.
Top recommended inn: Yamashiroya Ryokan
Founded in Taisho 1 (1912), Yamashiroya Ryokan is a long-established pilgrimage inn located very close to Temple 40, Kanjizai-ji.
It is just a 2-minute walk from the temple approach, making it extremely convenient. The inn offers traditional Japanese-style rooms where guests can relax in a calm, nostalgic atmosphere.
Having hosted pilgrims for many years, it is well known for its warm hospitality and welcoming spirit. It is especially popular among walking pilgrims.
In addition, luggage delivery service is available, helping to reduce the burden for those traveling on foot.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- QHow many kilometers are there from Temple 40 to Temple 41?
- A
The distance from Temple 40, Kanjizai-ji, to Temple 41, Ryuko-ji, is approximately 50 km on foot for pilgrims.
This route includes steep sections such as Kashiwasaka Pass (elevation 500 m) and Matsuo Pass (elevation 200 m). Since it is difficult to complete in a single day, most pilgrims stay overnight along the way.
- QAre Kashiwasaka Pass and Matsuo Pass difficult?
- A
Kashiwasaka Pass is particularly demanding due to its significant elevation gain and is considered one of the more physically challenging sections between Temples 40 and 41.
Matsuo Pass is shorter, but can become muddy and slippery after rain, so caution is required. It is recommended to avoid overexertion and plan your walk while making use of accommodations along the route.
- QCan these passes be avoided?
- A
Yes.
Kashiwasaka Pass can be bypassed via a coastal route, and Matsuo Pass can be avoided by passing through a tunnel route. Both detours connect via National Route 56.
While these alternatives reduce physical strain, they include sections with heavier traffic, so caution is needed. It is best to choose your route depending on your fitness level, weather, and load.
- QAre there accommodations suitable for walking pilgrims in this area?
- A
Yes. The Ainan area has a number of traditional pilgrimage lodges, guesthouses, and inns.
Many of them offer services tailored to walking pilgrims, such as laundry facilities and early breakfast or early departure support, making it an easy area to plan flexible overnight stays.
- QAre there recommended accommodations for car pilgrims?
- A
For car pilgrims, hot spring inns with parking facilities such as Ipponmatsu Onsen Akebonosou are very convenient.
It offers a large public bath where you can relax after long drives, and it is easily accessible, making it a practical base for car-based pilgrimage travel.
- QAre there more accommodation options in Uwajima?
- A
Yes. Once you reach Uwajima City, you will find a wide range of hotels, restaurants, convenience stores, and train services.
Because accommodation options increase significantly, many pilgrims choose to continue on to Uwajima if they have enough time and energy.
- QShould I book accommodation in advance?
- A
Yes, advance booking is recommended during peak pilgrimage seasons (spring and autumn).
Some guesthouses and pilgrimage inns have limited rooms and may become fully booked. In particular, around Kashiwasaka Pass and Matsuo Pass, accommodation options are limited, so early reservations are strongly advised.
Summary
The area around Temples 40 to 41 includes challenging sections such as Kashiwasaka Pass and Matsuo Pass. However, it is also well served with pilgrimage inns and hot spring accommodations, allowing travelers to plan their journey in a manageable way.
For walking pilgrims, traditional lodgings around Kanjizai-ji and small inns near Kashiwasaka Pass are recommended. For car pilgrims, hot spring facilities such as Ipponmatsu Onsen Akebonosou are convenient options.
If you continue on to Uwajima, you will find a greater variety of accommodations and dining options. It is therefore advisable to choose your lodging flexibly depending on your level of fatigue and your schedule.
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