Hello, I’m Taka, the owner of this blog.
I have completed the Shikoku Pilgrimage on foot twice, combining both the clockwise route and the counterclockwise route.
If you are planning to stay in the area around Temples No. 56–64, the area near Nyūgawa Station is one of the most convenient bases, especially for visiting Yokomine-ji.
For walking pilgrims, Shikishima Ryokan is a particularly convenient choice. For those traveling by car, Yunotani Onsen is highly recommended thanks to its easy access and comfortable facilities.
Quick Recommendation
✔ Walking Pilgrims:
Shikishima Ryokan
✔ Pilgrims by Car:
Yunotani Onsen
✔ Best Area:
Nyugawa Station
Highlights of This Area
Yokomine-ji (Temple No. 60) is located deep in the mountains at an elevation of approximately 750 meters (2,460 feet). It is widely regarded as one of the most challenging temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Because reaching the temple requires a significant amount of time and physical effort, it is important to plan your itinerary carefully and allow plenty of time for the visit. Whether traveling on foot or by car, a well-paced schedule will help ensure a safer and more enjoyable pilgrimage experience.
The Route from Kokubun-ji to Yokomine-ji
Yokomine-ji Mountain Trail
The area around Nyūgawa Station, located at the foot of Yokomine-ji, offers a good selection of accommodations, restaurants, and convenience stores, making it an excellent base for pilgrims.
Since the temple’s nōkyōsho (stamp and calligraphy office) typically closes at 5:00 PM, it is advisable not to rush if you expect to arrive late. Instead, consider staying in this area and visiting the temple the following morning.
In addition, the distances between Temples No. 61 and No. 64 are relatively short compared with other sections of the pilgrimage route, allowing pilgrims to visit them efficiently. Once you have completed your visit to Yokomine-ji without overexerting yourself, the remainder of this section tends to be much easier and more straightforward to navigate.
Recommended Accommodation for Pilgrims Traveling by Car
Yunotani Onsen
Located at the foot of Yokomine-ji, this hot spring inn is an excellent base for pilgrims traveling by car.
Its greatest attraction is the natural hot spring, fed by a 100% free-flowing private source with a history of more than 1,400 years. After the demanding climb to Yokomine-ji, guests can relax and recover in the soothing mineral-rich waters.
The property also offers a guesthouse for pilgrims and laundry facilities, making it well suited for extended journeys. Its convenient location provides easy access to Temples No. 61 through No. 64, allowing pilgrims to continue their journey efficiently the following day.
With its combination of authentic hot springs, practical facilities, and strategic location, Yunotani Onsen is one of the top accommodation choices in this area.
Find accommodation
Clicking the button will take you to the relevant section in the article.
Accommodation near Temples 56-59
Route-Inn Imabari
| Nearest Temple | No. 56 (1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Imabari (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Takeniwa
| Nearest Temple | No. 56 (1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Imabari (6 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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No. 58 Senyuji Temple
| Nearest Temple | No. 58 (0 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Tomita (6 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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COZY HOTEL NUKUI shimanami
| Nearest Temple | No. 59 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Tomita (0.6 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Shio no Maru
| Nearest Temple | No. 59 (4 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Sakurai (2 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
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Shikishima
| Nearest Temple | No. 59 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Miyoshi (0.2 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Accommodation near Temple 60
Suke-ya
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (15 km) |
| Nearest Station | Nyugawa (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Taiyo-Noen Saijo
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (15 km) |
| Nearest Station | Nyugawa (0.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Terminal Hotel Toyo
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (15 km) |
| Nearest Station | Nyugawa (0.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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HOTEL AZ Ehime Toyo
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (15 km) |
| Nearest Station | Nyugawa (0.2 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Ishizuchi Ando
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (10 km) |
| Nearest Station | Nyugawa (4 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Shikokuya
| Nearest Temple | No. 60 (7 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Komatsu (6 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Accommodation near Temples 62-64
Komatsu
| Nearest Temple | No. 62 (0.3 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Komatsu (0.3 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Himi
| Nearest Temple | No. 63 (0.1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Iyo Himi (0.1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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KIKUKO
| Nearest Temple | No. 64 (0.7 km) |
| Nearest Station | Ishizuchi-yama (0.7 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Ishizuchi Jinjya Kaikan
| Nearest Temple | No. 64 (0.5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Ishizuchi-yama (0.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Yunotani Onsen
| Nearest Temple | No. 64 (0.2 km) |
| Nearest Station | Ishizuchi-yama (0.6 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Top Recommendation: Shikishima Ryokan
Located between Kokubun-ji (Temple No. 59) and Yokomine-ji (Temple No. 60), this accommodation is a popular choice among pilgrims.
One of its main attractions is its warm and welcoming atmosphere. The property is a beautifully renovated traditional Japanese house that is more than 70 years old, offering a unique blend of historic charm and modern comfort. Both private rooms and dormitory-style accommodations are available, making it suitable for a variety of travel styles and budgets.
Guests can take advantage of practical amenities such as free Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, and on-site parking, making it convenient for both walking pilgrims and those traveling by car. The friendly hospitality of the proprietress is especially well regarded, and many guests enjoy the opportunity to interact with fellow travelers during their stay.
Its convenient location makes it an ideal place to stay before or after visiting Yokomine-ji. For pilgrims exploring this section of the route, Shikishima Ryokan is one of the most highly recommended accommodations in the area.
Frequently Asked Questions
- QWhere is the best place to stay when visiting Temples No. 56–64?
- A
If you plan to visit Yokomine-ji, staying near Nyūgawa Station is highly recommended. The area offers hotels, restaurants, and convenience stores, making it a convenient base for both walking pilgrims and those traveling by car.
- QI’ve heard Yokomine-ji is one of the most difficult temples on the pilgrimage. How challenging is it?
- A
Yokomine-ji is located in the mountains at an elevation of approximately 750 meters (2,460 feet) and is widely regarded as one of the most challenging temples on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. For walking pilgrims, the long uphill climb requires careful planning and a reasonable amount of time and stamina.
- QWhat time does the nōkyōsho (stamp office) at Yokomine-ji close?
- A
The nōkyōsho normally accepts visitors until 5:00 PM. If you expect to arrive late, it is advisable to stay overnight near Nyūgawa Station or another nearby area and visit the temple the following day.
- QIs there a recommended accommodation for walking pilgrims?
- A
Yes. Shikishima Ryokan is one of the most popular choices in this area. Located between Kokubun-ji and Yokomine-ji, it is a convenient place to stay before or after visiting Temple No. 60.
- QIs there a recommended accommodation for pilgrims traveling by car?
- A
Yes. Yunotani Onsen is an excellent option. Located at the foot of Yokomine-ji, it provides easy access to Temples No. 61–64 and offers relaxing natural hot spring baths after a day of pilgrimage.
- QCan Temples No. 61–64 be visited in a single day?
- A
Yes. For travelers by car, this section is relatively easy to complete in one day. Even for walking pilgrims, once Yokomine-ji has been visited, the distances between Temples No. 61 and No. 64 are comparatively short, making the route easier to manage.
- QIs there a temple lodging (shukubō) in this area?
- A
Yes. Pilgrims can stay at the shukubō of Senyu-ji (Temple No. 58). Staying within the temple grounds provides a unique opportunity to experience the spiritual atmosphere of the pilgrimage firsthand.
- QAre there any accommodations with hot spring facilities near Yokomine-ji?
- A
Yes. If you would like to enjoy hot springs during your pilgrimage, both Yunotani Onsen and Shio no Maru are excellent options. Yunotani Onsen is particularly convenient due to its proximity to Yokomine-ji, making it an ideal place to relax and recover after visiting the temple.
Summary
The Temple No. 56–64 area is highlighted by Yokomine-ji, which is widely regarded as the most challenging section of this route.
For walking pilgrims, it is recommended to stay near Kokubun-ji or around Nyūgawa Station and allow plenty of time when planning your visit to Yokomine-ji.
If you’re unsure where to stay, consider Shikishima Ryokan for a walking pilgrimage or Yunotani Onsen if you are traveling by car. Both provide convenient access to the temples in this area and offer a comfortable base for continuing your pilgrimage through the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
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Shikoku Pilgrimage Accommodation Guide
