Hello, I’m Taka, the creator of this blog.
I completed the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage twice on foot, both clockwise and counterclockwise.
The route from Temple 20, Kakurin-ji, to Temple 21, Tairyu-ji, is one of the most challenging sections in Tokushima and is known as the “Henro Korogashi” (Pilgrims’ Rolling Path).
For walking pilgrims in particular, this stretch can be physically exhausting, making accommodation choices an important factor for a successful pilgrimage.
In this article, based on my experience completing the walking pilgrimage twice, I’ll introduce recommended accommodations around Temples 20 to 22.
Find accommodation
Clicking the button will take you to the relevant section in the article.
Accommodation near Temple 20
Kichin Yado Otsuru




| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (6 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Sora




| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Mikan no Yado



| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Sakura no Yado




| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Kanekoya



| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
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Ebisu no Sato


| Nearest Temple | No. 20 (3 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Accommodation near Temple 21
Hotaru no Yado




| Nearest Temple | No. 21 (4 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Iyashitei Kokuu






| Nearest Temple | No. 21 (5 km) |
| Nearest Station | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Accommodation near Temple 22
Sazanka



| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (0.1 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (1.5 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Pandaya




| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (0.5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (2 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
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Hinomaru Syoten




| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (0.3 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Green House





| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (0.5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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NAMAZU




| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (1.5 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (0.1 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Tomako





| Nearest Temple | No. 22 (2 km) |
| Nearest Station | Aratano (2 km) |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
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Key Points of This Area

One of the toughest sections in Tokushima is the route between Temple 20, Kakurin-ji, and Temple 21, Tairyu-ji. Both temples are located on mountains at an elevation of around 500 meters and are known for their steep and challenging pilgrimage trails.
In addition, when traveling from Kakurin-ji to Tairyu-ji, pilgrims must descend the mountain once and then climb again. As a result, the total elevation gain on this section can exceed 1,000 meters.
For walking pilgrims, this is an especially physically demanding part of the journey, so it is recommended to plan a reasonable schedule and make good use of accommodations along the route.
Recommended Accommodation for Pilgrims Traveling by Car
Iyashitei Kokuu
Iyashitei Kokuu is a convenient accommodation located at the foot of Temple 21, Tairyu-ji.
Its biggest advantage is its excellent location, just near the Tairyu-ji Ropeway station, making it easy to visit the temple the following day.
The inn also features hot spring facilities, allowing pilgrims to relax and recover from the fatigue of their journey.
With comfortable amenities and convenient access, it is highly recommended as a base for pilgrims traveling by car.
Top Recommended Accommodation: Guest House NAMAZU
Guest House NAMAZU is an accommodation located near Temple 22, Byodo-ji.
One of its main advantages is its convenient location right next to JR Aratano Station, making it easily accessible even for walking pilgrims.
The guesthouse is situated in an area where accommodations are relatively easy to find, and it is also convenient for travelers using public transportation.
Frequently Asked Questions
- QWhich accommodations are recommended for walking pilgrims around Temples 20–22 in Tokushima?
- A
Around Temple 22, Byodo-ji, there are many guesthouses and traditional inns suitable for walking pilgrims. In particular, the area around JR Aratano Station is easy to access and offers several convenient lodging options for those traveling on foot.
- QHow difficult are Kakurin-ji and Tairyu-ji?
- A
Temple 20, Kakurin-ji, and Temple 21, Tairyu-ji, are known as challenging sections called “Henro Korogashi” (Pilgrims’ Rolling Path). The route includes many steep climbs and descents, making it physically demanding for walking pilgrims.
- QAre there accommodations convenient for pilgrims traveling by car?
- A
Yes. Accommodations around the Tairyu-ji Ropeway area are especially convenient for car pilgrims. Many offer easy access for the next day’s temple visit, along with parking and hot spring facilities.
- QAre there many accommodations around Temple 22, Byodo-ji?
- A
Yes. Around Byodo-ji, you can find a relatively wide range of accommodations, including guesthouses, traditional inns, and simple lodging facilities. The area is also close to JR Aratano Station, making it convenient for travelers using public transportation.
- QIs it possible to walk this section in one day?
- A
It is possible for experienced walkers, but the route including Kakurin-ji and Tairyu-ji can be quite demanding. Rather than overexerting yourself, it is recommended to plan an itinerary that includes an overnight stay along the way.
Summary
The area around Temples 20 to 22 in Tokushima includes the challenging “Henro Korogashi” section, featuring Temple 20, Kakurin-ji, and Temple 21, Tairyu-ji.
Because this route can be especially physically demanding for walking pilgrims, careful trip planning and choosing the right accommodation are very important.
Around Temple 22, Byodo-ji, there are many guesthouses and traditional inns suitable for walking pilgrims, including accommodations conveniently located near the train station.
For pilgrims traveling by car, staying near the Tairyu-ji Ropeway area can make the pilgrimage more efficient and comfortable.
Choose accommodations that match your pilgrimage style and enjoy a safe and comfortable Shikoku pilgrimage journey.
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