“How many days does the Shikoku pilgrimage take by car?”
“How long does it take if I only visit Tokushima?”
Hello, I’m Taka, the creator of this blog.
I completed the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage on foot twice in total, once in the traditional clockwise order and once in reverse order.
Day 1 of the pilgrimage by car covers the route from Temple No. 1, Ryōzen-ji, to Temple No. 11, Fujii-dera, in Tokushima.
The total distance is approximately 37 km, and the temples are located relatively close to one another, making it an easy and manageable first day.
In this article, I summarize the actual route, required time, practical tips for visiting efficiently, accommodation and car-camping options, as well as common mistakes to avoid.
Even if you are starting the pilgrimage by car for the first time, this guide is designed to help you plan with confidence and without confusion.
Article Summary
- Schedule: Tokushima area can be completed in 2–3 days
- Day 1: Temple No. 1 Ryōzen-ji to Temple No. 11 Fujii-dera
- Distance: Approx. 37 km
- Required time: About 9 hours (travel + temple visits)
- Recommended pace: 8–11 temples per day
- Key point: Ending Day 1 at Temple No. 11 is efficient
- Note: Temple No. 12 Shōsan-ji is in a mountainous area and requires extra time
- Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car – Day 1: Temple No. 1 Area and Central Tokushima
- Day 1 Highlight: Ryōzen-ji, the Starting Temple and Place of Return
- Roadside Station Information: Tokushima City Area
- Recommended Accommodation: Tokushima City Area
- Common Mistakes in the Tokushima Area
- FAQ: Day 1 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car
- Summary
- Related Article
Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car – Day 1: Temple No. 1 Area and Central Tokushima
Day 1 covers a route visiting temples No. 1 through No. 11.
The total distance is approximately 37 km, and the temples are located relatively close to one another, making this a compact and efficient section to complete.
Since the route is centered around the Tokushima urban area, roads are generally easy to follow, and the overall difficulty level is not particularly high.
Information on Temples No. 1 to No. 11
A complete list of all temples up to No. 88 is available in the article below.
Temple List and Full Route
Day 1 Tip: Prepare for Shōsan-ji, the First Major Challenge
Temple No. 12, Shōsan-ji, is located in a mountainous area and is known as the first major difficult section of the pilgrimage, often called Henro Korogashi.
It takes approximately 1 hr 30 min by car from Temple No. 11, Fujii-dera.
For this reason, it is recommended to end Day 1 at Temple No. 11 rather than pushing ahead too far.
By reaching Temple No. 11 on the first day, you can use the early morning of Day 2 for travel time to Temple No. 12.
If you start from Temple No. 1 at 8:00 a.m., it is entirely possible to complete up to Temple No. 11 in one day.
Even if you are unable to reach Temple No. 11, there is no need to worry.
Any remaining temples can simply be completed the next morning without difficulty.
Day 1 Highlight: Ryōzen-ji, the Starting Temple and Place of Return
Temple No. 1, Ryōzen-ji, is the temple where many pilgrims begin their journey. It is widely known as the traditional starting point of the Shikoku pilgrimage and offers a special atmosphere that marks the beginning of the experience.
It is also a temple many pilgrims revisit after completing all 88 temples as a gesture of gratitude, known as orei mairi or a return visit. The scenery and feelings upon returning often seem very different from those at the beginning.
At Ryōzen-ji, you can also purchase most of the essential pilgrimage items and equipment. It is a convenient place to make final preparations before departure.
Roadside Station Information: Tokushima City Area
We have compiled a list of roadside stations that are easily accessible from the pilgrimage route.
Kurukuru Naruto
| Parking | 150 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 1 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
The facilities are well equipped, but it is located slightly away from the pilgrimage route.
Dai 9 no Sato
| Parking | 100 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 1 |
| Facilities | – |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
It is conveniently located near Temple No. 1, although the facilities feel somewhat dated.
Itano
| Parking | 300 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 2 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi、Foot Bath |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★★ (5/5) |
It is easily accessible from Temple No. 2, and with its modern facilities, it is an ideal base for the first day.
Recommended Accommodation: Tokushima City Area
Oyado Eleven
Located about 200 meters from Temple No. 11, this is a convenient base before heading to Temple No. 12, Shōsan-ji, the first major mountain section of the pilgrimage, suitable for both car and walking pilgrims.
Facilities include parking, Wi-Fi, laundry, and a shared kitchen, making it ideal for longer stays, with guests often noting the helpful host and practical location for continuing the route.
Common Mistakes in the Tokushima Area
Unable to book hotels due to local events
Around Tokushima City, major events such as the Awa Odori Festival can cause hotels and accommodations to become fully booked. In many cases, last-minute reservations may be difficult or impossible.
If your travel dates may overlap with popular events, it is best to book accommodation early or consider overnight stays in your car as an alternative.
You can check event schedules in Tokushima Prefecture on the official tourism association website.
It’s Okay If You Can’t Finish on the First Day
Even if you arrive late and are unable to complete the route on your first day, there is no problem.
Temples No. 1 to No. 11 are located relatively close together, so they can easily be covered the following day.
There is no need to rush—travel at your own pace and enjoy the pilgrimage.
FAQ: Day 1 of the Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car
- QWhat time should I start on the first day?
- A
You can start at any time, but if you begin around 8:00 a.m., it is generally possible to reach Temple No. 11, Fujii-dera, without rushing.
If you start in the afternoon, it is helpful to consider it as a “Day 0,” which makes it easier to plan the following days.
- QWhat if I can’t complete up to Temple No. 11 on the first day?
- A
There is no problem. You can simply complete the remaining temples the next morning. Do not rush—prioritize safety.
- QShould I try to reach Temple No. 12, Shōsan-ji, on Day 1?
- A
It is not recommended. Because it is located in a mountainous area and takes considerable time to reach, it is more efficient to finish Day 1 at Temple No. 11 and visit Temple No. 12 the next morning.
- QWhere can I stay overnight in my car?
- A
There are roadside stations (michi-no-eki) around the Tokushima area where overnight parking may be possible. It is safer to check facilities and locations in advance and choose your options beforehand.
- QWhat preparations are needed on Day 1?
- A
At Temple No. 1, Ryōzen-ji, you can purchase essential pilgrimage items such as a stamp book and white vest. You can either prepare in advance or buy everything on-site before starting your journey for a smoother experience.
Summary
Day 1 in Tokushima covers a route from Temple No. 1, Ryōzen-ji, to Temple No. 11, Fujii-dera.
With a total distance of approximately 37 km, this section is very easy to navigate and serves as an ideal starting point for a car-based pilgrimage.
Rather than pushing on to Temple No. 12, Shōsan-ji, it is recommended to stop at Temple No. 11. This allows for a more relaxed schedule on the following day.
On the first day, focus on getting used to the pilgrimage itself, and proceed at a comfortable pace without rushing.
Related Article
Day 2 Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car: Mt. Shosan-ji to Temple 19 Distance, Travel Time & Route Guide.
Day 2: Tokushima Temples 12–19
Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car: 10-Day Route, Cost & Essential Tips.
Shikoku Pilgrimage by Car