Shikoku Nature & Mindfulness Journey
Description
Japan is an island country where ancient civilization lives alongside modernity in perfect harmony.
It is a land full of captivating contrasts, seamlessly blends ancient traditions with futuristic innovations. Immerse yourself in vibrant Tokyo, marvel at towering skyscrapers, and find solace in enchanting shrines. Indulge in culinary delights like sushi, sashimi, and tempura. Embrace Japanese culture by wearing a traditional kimono. From bustling markets to serene shores, Japan offers diverse experiences for every traveler.
From$2,385
Starts in Osaka/Kyoto
Ends in Osaka/Kyoto
Duration (days) 5
Group size 2
Shikoku Nature & Mindfulness Journey
Overview
Shikoku, a lush island in Japan, offers a serene escape from crowded regions. Previously only accessible by boat, Shikoku's remoteness preserves traditional Japanese culture and ancient traditions. The Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage attracts travelers seeking a unique spiritual journey, following in the footsteps of Kobo Daishi. Pilgrims visit 88 temples, receiving blessings and immersing themselves in local customs. This tour offers a unique opportunity to explore a carefully curated selection of temples along the historic Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Highlights include visiting some of the most captivating temples, immersing in the serene ambiance of a shukubo temple lodging, savoring an authentic shojin ryori Buddhist vegetarian cuisine, and unwinding in the soothing hot spring town of Dogo Onsen during the pleasant Walking season.
HOTEL:
MEALS:Basic Itinerary
Map
Itinerary
Day 1Tokushima
Embark on your pilgrimage from Osaka or Kyoto by boarding a long-distance bus to Tokushima Prefecture. Start your mindfulness journey in Tokushima's peaceful neighbourhoods, offering a gentle introduction to the Shikoku pilgrimage. Visit three of the trail's most captivating temples: Ryozen-ji (Temple 1), Gokuraku-ji (Temple 2), and Konsen-ji (Temple 3). Immerse yourself in the tradition by spending your first night in a Shukubo temple lodging, as pilgrims have done for centuries.
An optional extra walk routing is available to offer.
DinnerDay 2Tokushima
From your temple lodging, take a pre-arranged and pre-paid taxi south to Temple 11, Fujii-dera, nestled at the base of a captivating hillside temple complex. Embark on a challenging hike uphill from Fujiidera Temple to Temple 12, Shosan-ji. Despite being one of the longest and most demanding walks on the tour, the breathtaking scenery makes it worthwhile. Continue your journey walking to Yorii, where you'll board a public transportation to the quaint onsen village of Kamiyama, your destination for the evening. A shorter route can be offered according to your physical fitness.
Breakfast, DinnerDay 3Tokushima
Immerse yourself in the natural splendor of the 88 Pilgrimage route by embarking on a captivating hike along one of its most picturesque sections. Starting at Temple 20, Kakurin-ji, the trail gently descends towards the enchanting hamlet of Anan. As you cross the serene waters of the Nakagawa River, the terrain gradually ascends, leading you to Temple 21, Tairyu-ji. To conclude the day's adventure, take an exhilarating cable car ride, offering breathtaking panoramic views of the cedar forest and the quaint town below. Afterward, a convenient bus transfer will transport you to your evening accommodation. For travelers based in Tokushima city, there is an option to extend the hike to approximately 5 hours. If you wish to embark on this extended journey, kindly inquire for further details.
BreakfastDay 4Kagawa
To begin an enriching hike in northern Kagawa Prefecture, depart from Tokushima by public transportation. Immerse yourself in the picturesque landscape while visiting a notable collection of temples: Temple 82, Negoro-ji; Temple 81, Shiromine-ji; and ultimately, Temple 80, Kokubun-ji. Continue your journey by train, concluding at the historic hot spring town of Kotohira Spa, where you can spend the night. A shorter hike is available, please inquire with us.
Breakfast, DinnerDay 5Kotohira
After breakfast, spend some time exploring Kotohira Spa. Board a train after lunch for the return journey to Osaka or Kyoto, arriving late afternoon.
BreakfastDates & Prices
Accommodation
Day
Where
Accommodation
1
- 2
Tokushima
Temple Lodging
2
- 3
Tokushima
Onsen Ryokan
3
- 4
Tokushima
Western-style Hotel
4
- 5
Kagawa
Ryokan
Other information
Daily departure based on minimum 2 passengers travelling together, sharing a room.
Feb 28 to May 30, Aug 31-Nov 29, 2026; Feb 28-May 30, 2027 : Twin/double sharing CAD$2650 p.p. single supplement CAD$835 p.p.; May 31-Aug 30, 2026: Twin/double sharing CAD$2385 p.p. single supplement CAD$835 p.p.; Price includes accommodations, daily breakfasts and most of the dinners, Round-trip transportation from Kyoto/Osaka and pre-paid taxis, detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking directions and Shikoku Island guidebook, Topographical maps, local support by telephone ; Price excludes international flight to/from Osaka. airport taxes & fuel surcharges, entry visa/taxes, tour guide, drinks and meals not included in itinerary, local bus journeys which must be paid directly to the bus driver and the cable car journey on Day 3, luggage handling and transfers, personal expenditure.
