The Eighty-Eight Temples of Shikoku

Ohenro is an unprecedented large scale pilgrimage visiting 88 temples in Shikoku, which was started by Buddhist Monk Kukai (Kobo Daishi) approximately 1,200 years ago.

The whole route is approximately 1,400 km. Although the impression of the pilgrimage is difficult and hard, many people have recently visited with various purposes rather than religious aspects, for example, traveling alone to reflect on themselves, for health and outdoor activity. The temples increasingly attract people as a destination to visit at least once in a lifetime.

Ohenro for beginners

It does not matter as long as you wear the clothes considered suitable for pilgrimaging.

Casual clothes and outdoor gear are still acceptable as long as you show respect towards the principal image of Buddha.

However, most people would like to pilgrimage with minimal equipment such as a pilgrim’s staff, stole and white robe.

If you wear proper pilgrim clothing, you will feel motivated, be received as a pilgrim by local people and be able to interact with them.