Hello. My name is “Taka,” and I run this blog.
I have walked the Shikoku Pilgrimage twice, completing both the clockwise and counterclockwise routes.
Day 4 of the car pilgrimage covers Temples 27, Kōnomine-ji, through Temple 34, Tanema-ji in Kochi Prefecture.
The total driving distance is approximately 100 km, and when including temple visits and stamp collection time, this makes for a manageable one-day model course.
The biggest point of caution on this day is Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji, located at an elevation of about 430 meters. Because of the mountain road drive and the uphill walk from the parking area, an early morning departure is highly recommended.
After passing Kōnomine-ji, the route enters the Kochi city area, where the temples are located closer together. With many accommodations and restaurants available, this is a convenient and efficient day for pilgrims traveling by car.
What you will learn in this article
- The pilgrimage route and driving distances from Temple 27 to Temple 34
- Estimated time needed to complete the course in one day
- Important tips for visiting Kōnomine-ji
- Highlights along the way, including Chikurin-ji and Katsurahama Beach
- Rest stops and lodging information such as roadside stations and hotels
- Common mistakes in the Kochi city area and how to avoid them
Day 4 of the car pilgrimage: From Cape Muroto to Kochi city area
Day 4 covers Temples 27 through 34.
The total driving distance is approximately 100 km.
Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji, is known as a challenging temple located at an elevation of about 430 meters.
Once you pass this point, you will enter the Kochi city area, where accommodations and dining options are plentiful.
In this section, the temples are located relatively close to one another, making it an efficient route that can be comfortably completed in one day.
Information on Temples No. 27 to No. 34
A complete list of all temples up to No. 88 is available in the article below.
Temple List and Full Route
Key point of Day 4: Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji (“Henro Korogashi”)
Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji, is located at an elevation of approximately 430 meters.
Among walking pilgrims, it is known as a difficult section called not “straight across,” but “straight up,” due to its extremely steep slope (reaching up to 45 degrees in some places).
Even when visiting by car, you will still need to walk uphill for about 70 meters from the parking area.
It is best to be mentally prepared before starting your visit.
If you completed up to Temple 26 on the previous day, you can begin Day 4 early in the morning and travel efficiently.
From Temple 28 onward: entering the city area
From Temple 28, the route enters the urban area.
The distance from Temple 28 to Temple 34 is approximately 40 km, with temples located relatively close together. If possible, this is a section you may want to complete in one day for greater efficiency.
Highlights of Day 4
Temple 31, Chikurin-ji: Five-Story Pagoda
This five-story pagoda stands 31 meters tall and is built entirely of Japanese cypress. It was reconstructed in the style of the early Kamakura period.
Inside the pagoda, sacred Buddha relics enshrined from Bodh Gaya, India, are preserved.
Scenic spot: Katsurahama Beach
Katsurahama Beach is located along the route from Temple 32, Zenjibu-ji, to Temple 33, Sekkei-ji.
If you have extra time, it is definitely a scenic spot worth visiting.
Katsurahama Beach
A scenic destination in Kochi, known for the statue of Sakamoto Ryōma, its beautiful sandy beach, and magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean.
Statue of Sakamoto Ryōma
A patriot of the late Bakumatsu period who played a key role in mediating the Satchō Alliance and founding the Kaientai, helping pave the way for Japan’s modernization.
Roadside Station Information: From Cape Muroto to Kochi City Area
Here is a summary of roadside stations that are easily accessible from the pilgrimage route.
Tanoekiya
| Parking | 30 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 27 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
It is located at the foot of Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji, in a convenient area with a convenience store and drugstore next door.
Oyama
| Parking | 20 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 27 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★☆☆ (3/5) |
It is located a short distance past Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji. It was renovated in February 2024.
Yasu
| Parking | 80 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 28 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
It is located along National Route 55 with excellent access, and because a beach is also attached nearby, the area has a lively atmosphere.
Nangoku Fuwari
| Parking | 120 |
| Nearest Temple | No. 29 |
| Facilities | Wi-Fi |
| Google Maps | MAP |
| Rating | ★★★★☆ (4/5) |
Located about 1 km north of Temple 29, Kokubun-ji, it also offers convenient access to Kochi city, making it a practical base for travelers.
Recommended accommodation: Kochi city area
Kochi Kuroshio Hotel
Located at the foot of Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji, this hotel is a convenient base for car pilgrims, with easy access to nearby Temple 28 and Kochi city.
It offers free parking and is next to a convenience store and drugstore, plus an attached natural hot spring for relaxing after a day of pilgrimage.
Common mistakes in the Kochi city area
Could not book a hotel because of local events
Hotels in the Kochi city area can become difficult to book during the Yosakoi Festival and other major events.
Especially during busy seasons, rooms may sell out early, so it is recommended to make reservations as soon as your travel plans are decided.
Stopped for sightseeing and missed the temple office hours
If you prioritize sightseeing during the pilgrimage, travel and stay times may become longer, causing you to miss the reception hours of the temple stamp offices.
A more efficient approach is to schedule sightseeing after 5:00 PM, once the temple offices have closed, or early in the morning before temple visits begin.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
- QWhich temple requires the most caution on Day 4?
- A
Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji. It is located at an elevation of about 430 meters and requires driving on mountain roads. There is also an uphill walk from the parking area to the main hall, so it is best to visit with enough time and energy.
- QWhat should I be careful about when visiting Kōnomine-ji by car?
- A
The road to Kōnomine-ji is steep and winding, so careful driving is essential. If your vehicle struggles on the climb, shift into a lower gear and proceed slowly without forcing it.
On the descent, avoid riding the brakes continuously, as this can place excessive strain on them. Instead, use engine braking and maintain a safe speed.
Some sections are narrow and have sharp curves, so watch carefully for oncoming traffic and slow down where visibility is limited. Allowing extra time and driving calmly is the safest approach.
- QAre there places to eat or shop after Kōnomine-ji?
- A
Yes. As you get closer to Kochi city, you will find more restaurants, convenience stores, and supermarkets. The city area is much more convenient than the area around Kōnomine-ji.
- QWhere is the most convenient place to stay in Kochi?
- A
Staying around Kochi city is recommended. There are many hotels and restaurants, and it provides easy access to Temple 35 and beyond on the following day, making it a practical base for pilgrims traveling by car.
- QIs it possible to miss the temple office hours?
- A
Yes. Delays caused by sightseeing or traffic can result in arriving after the stamp office closes. It is more efficient to schedule sightseeing in the early morning or later in the evening after temple visits are finished.
Summary
The route covering Temples 27 to 34 in Kochi requires special caution mainly for the mountain road leading to Temple 27, Kōnomine-ji. After that, the course enters the Kochi city area, making it a relatively easy section to travel. Since the temples are located close to one another, it is an efficient route that can comfortably be completed in one day by car.
Another advantage is the convenience of Kochi city as a travel base, with plenty of options for accommodation, dining, and shopping.
If you have extra time, you can also enjoy famous Kochi attractions such as Chikurin-ji and Katsurahama Beach.
To continue smoothly toward Temple 35 and beyond on the following day, it is recommended to stay around Kochi city on Day 4 and follow a relaxed, well-paced schedule.
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