Hello, my name is Taka, and I am the creator of this blog.
I have completed the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage on foot twice.
My first pilgrimage was a Jun-uchi (walking in numerical order from Temple 1 to Temple 88), and my second was a Gyaku-uchi (walking in reverse order from Temple 88 to Temple 1). Both pilgrimages were completed through Kugiri-uchi, meaning I walked the pilgrimage in separate sections over multiple trips.
I first walked the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage in 2014, the year marking the 1,200th anniversary of the founding of the pilgrimage tradition.
Because it was such a special commemorative year, many pilgrims visited Shikoku, and I could feel the renewed energy and appreciation for pilgrimage culture throughout the region.
That experience became the beginning of my deeper connection with the beauty and meaning of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
Based on my own experiences walking the pilgrimage, I share practical information that can only be learned by walking the route myself, including trail conditions, route planning, accommodation options, food and supply points, necessary equipment, and physical challenges along the way.
I currently work as a web designer while sharing the appeal of the walking pilgrimage and practical travel information based on my personal experiences with both Japanese and international pilgrims.
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a valuable cultural tradition where visitors can experience Japan’s history, spirituality, local communities, and the kindness of the people along the way.
I created this website with the hope of introducing this remarkable pilgrimage culture to future walkers from Japan and around the world, and to help preserve and promote the tradition of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
About This Blog
This website provides practical and experience-based information for:
- People interested in the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage
- Those planning to begin a walking pilgrimage
- Travelers who want to know about actual distances, difficulty levels, and accommodation options
- International visitors who want to challenge the Shikoku Pilgrimage
When I first decided to walk the pilgrimage, I also struggled because the available information was scattered and it was difficult to know what to expect.
I started this blog with one simple goal:
“To provide realistic and useful information that helps future pilgrims prepare with confidence.”
Final Message
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is not simply a long-distance journey.
It is a special experience that allows people to reflect on themselves while connecting with local culture, history, nature, and the warmth of the people they meet along the way.
I hope this website will help anyone preparing to walk the Shikoku Pilgrimage and make their journey a more rewarding experience.
