Experience Japan's Rural Beauty in Cherry Blossom Season

Announcement posted by Wandering the World 14 Nov 2017

14 Day Hosted Walk - Shikoku Temple Pilgrimage Trail - March 31, 2018

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, is one of tranquility and beautiful, natural surroundings and home to the fascinating Pilgrimage Temple Trail. Wandering the World's hosted 14-Day relaxed walk takes you off the beaten path, through rural villages and forests, offering a window to traditional Japan.

Boasting a unique historical culture and warm-hearted people, the island of Shikoku, despite being only a short hop from Osaka remains reasonably isolated, with few travellers making the journey to this relatively undiscovered part of Asia. Shikoku is perhaps most famous for its pilgrimage route of eighty-eight Sacred Temples.

Wandering the World's walk takes you through rural Japan where the pace of life slows to the rhythm of the seasons, and where natural and spiritual treasures unfold at every step. You will wander through the varied landscapes to visit 27 of the 88 impressive temples. Those who do make the effort to leave the bustle of Japan's city life behind soon find themselves rewarded by an island of immense natural beauty, steeped in colourful legend and history. The ancient broad-leaved forests, idyllic hot springs and timeless rustic hamlets framed by some of the finest coastal scenery in all of Japan make this walk a truly memorable experience.

The trip starts in Koyasan (on the island of Honshu) on March 31, 2018 and finishes in Kagawa (on the island of Shikoku) on April 13, 2018. Limited places are still available. The trip is priced at JPY 480,000 per person twin share, and includes all accommodation on a bed and breakfast basis, 10 dinners and luggage transfers. A reasonable level of fitness is recommended and that you feel comfortable with walking distances ranging from 9 km - 17km per day.

The itinerary can be view at Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail