Currently, trips are set for the following dates:
SHIKOKU PILGRIMAGE / KOYASAN / KYOTO
October 13th to October 24th - 11 days - places available
AIZU WEEKEND EXPERIENCE (AUTUMN)
October 28th (Fri) to Oct 31st (Mon) - 4 days - places available
Please contact us for access to Pilgrim's Login for full itineraries.
Custom made treks and tours available on request.
“Temple Trek Japan 2018 was an incredibly unique travel experience. To be able to immerse ourselves in the ancient culture and spirituality of Japan was made possible by the gentle wisdom of Shozo and Sarah. We were also offered the opportunity to test our strength and endurance during some of the most remarkably beautiful forest walks and gain a sense of peace and quiet that was truly astounding. The variety of our experience was vast, not least being the strong sense of connection that easily developed between us all leading to lots of laughter and deep sharing. I could not recommend a trip more highly. A deep bow to Sarah and Shozo.” Sally NSW Australia
The Shikoku pilgrimage route is one of the few circular shaped pilgrimages in the world, although traditionally completed by foot, it is said 150,000 make the pilgrimage annually by bus, car, motorcycle, bicycle or other means.
Shikoku pilgrimage also known as the ‘Henro trail’ (Henro meaning pilgrim in Japanese) includes 88 ‘official’ temples and numerous other sacred sites where Buddhist monk Kūkai (Kōbō Daishi) is believed to have trained or have spent time during the 9th century. If walked, the entire route is about 1200 kilometres. We visit several of these temples experiencing the abundant natural surroundings of Shikoku such as it’s bamboo forests, mountain passes and beautiful coastlines. The walk is suitable for anyone who is a regular walker and can comfortably walk for more than three to four hours. The route varies from forest trails to village roads, it is gently undulating but also includes some steeper climbs of an hour or more. Low intensity options are available for big walking days.
Walking in silence is highly recommended to provide an opportunity to reflect and maximise on the henro experience. The Japanese people’s motives for making this pilgrimage are varied, some have arrived at a crossroad in life, some for spiritual reasons, some to pray for healing or often in memory and honour of those who have passed away. Some just to have a break from regular life, for recreation or to spend time alone in contemplation.
It is recommended when walking the pilgrimage to wear the henro attire which consists of a white top (hakui) and / or using a staff. When people see that you are a henro, they will treat you as such and you will be included into the culture of selfless support (osettai). The local people will welcome you for your decision to embark on the Shikoku pilgrimage.
