The Shikoku Japan 88 Route Guide is a practical guide for pilgrims walking the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage.
I’m Naoyuki Matsushita, and I’ve been creating and updating this guide since 2007. Through 10 editions, I’ve combined firsthand pilgrimage experience with detailed local knowledge to provide practical, accurate information for international visitors.
When you order through this website, I personally prepare and ship your guide, ensuring you receive the latest edition with current route information.
Sample Pages
¥1,980 (in Japan only, incl. tax) | 192 pages | B6 format | 18.2 × 12.8 × 1.0 cm | 250g
About This Guide
The Shikoku Japan 88 Route Guide is designed for walking pilgrims and provides essential, practical information such as restrooms, food options, accommodation, and distances between temples.
Created especially for international visitors unfamiliar with the Shikoku region, the guide combines local knowledge with practical insights to help you prepare for and fully experience the pilgrimage.
What is the Shikoku Pilgrimage?
What is most important is not reaching the goal, but the journey itself.
The warm hearts of the people you meet and the beautiful nature of Shikoku you see will perfectly complement your action of doing the pilgrimage.
The Shikoku pilgrimage, known as Henro, is a unique circular route connecting 88 temples across the island of Shikoku.
Walking the approximately 1,140 km route is not about reaching a destination, but about the journey itself—through nature, encounters with local people, and moments of reflection.
Why Do People Walk the Shikoku Pilgrimage?
People undertake the pilgrimage for many reasons: religious devotion, prayer for health or family, remembrance of loved ones, or simply to step away from everyday life.
Today, the Shikoku pilgrimage is increasingly valued as a journey of healing, reflection, and personal renewal.
Publication History
1st edition: October 2007
2nd edition: August 2009
3rd edition: June 2013
4th edition: September 2015
5th edition: June 2017
6th edition: October 2018
7th edition: March 2020
8th edition: February 2023
9th edition: July 2024
10th edition: August 2025
Author, Editor, Map production: Naoyuki Matsushita © 2025
Author (Map Information): Tateki Miyazaki © 2010
Project Consultant & Translator: David Moreton
Publisher: Buyodo Co. Ltd.
Address: Buyodo Co. Ltd., 3-8-16 Nihonbashi, Chuo-ku, Tokyo 103-0027