Shikoku Pilgrimage Walk
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Port
Matsuyama, Japan
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Activity Level
Moderate Activity
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Excursion Type
All
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Wheelchair Accessible
No
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Starting At (prices in USD)
$290
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Minimum Age
Information Not Currently Available
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Duration
Approximately 2½ Hours
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Meals Included
Meals not included
Experience the true spirit of the Shikoku Pilgrimage on this accessible walking tour.
Don traditional henro pilgrim attire (provided); then, set out to enjoy a pleasant walk through Matsuyama.
You're headed to Ishite-ji — the 51st temple of the pilgrimage. As Matsuyama's most famous temple, Ishite-ji lies along the sacred 1,100-year-old route, whose 88 temples are said to cleanse the worldly desires of human nature.
The temple's expansive grounds feature numerous halls, a three-story pagoda, and diverse Buddhist statues, along with a special oku-no-in (inner sanctuary) connected to the main grounds via a cavern.
View the Niomon Gate — a designated National Treasure — and the Main Hall and three-story pagoda, both Important Cultural Properties.
Your guide explains formal temple worship etiquette, so you can easily immerse yourself in Shikoku's religious history and spiritual culture.
Please note: Tour requires approximately 90 minutes of walking. Wear sturdy non-skid walking shoes. Shade is limited; to avoid sunburn, wear light, long clothing suitable for use as a cover-up. Bring a hat and sunglasses; wear biodegradable/reef-safe sunscreen. Bring bottled water. Suitable for guests using a wheelchair with a companion to assist. Participants must be able to climb a few steps unassisted to board the transportation. Scooters cannot be accommodated on the transportation. Tour sequence may vary. Bring local currency or credit cards, as most vendors do not accept US dollars. Unfamiliar accents can be challenging; feel free to ask your guide to repeat or elaborate on information, and to speak more slowly so you can fully comprehend and converse.