Shikoku Pilgrimage Road Trip
Japan
This circular road trip follows Shikoku’s famed 88-temple pilgrimage from Tokushima through Kochi, Ehime, and Kagawa, linking sacred sites, coastal scenery, and mountain passes. Expect quiet country roads, historic temple towns, rugged capes, and a deeply cultural drive shaped by centuries of devotion.
Explore on the interactive map →Stops along the route
- Ryozenji Temple
Begin the pilgrimage at Shikoku's first temple, a calm gateway of incense, chanting, and stone lanterns.
- Mount Bizan
Climb above Tokushima for city views, forested slopes, and a sweeping look toward the river plain.
- Kongofukuji Temple
Reach a sacred coastal temple with sea air, steep approach roads, and a dramatic cliffside setting.
- Cape Ashizuri
Detour to Shikoku's southern edge for wild Pacific scenery, rocky headlands, and crashing surf.
- Chikurinji Temple
Pause in Kochi's temple garden for mossy paths, quiet halls, and a peaceful mountain foothill atmosphere.
- Matsuyama Castle
Explore one of Japan's best castles, set high above the city with broad views and Edo-era atmosphere.
- Dogo Onsen
Unwind in Japan's famous hot-spring district, where bathhouse streets glow with old-town charm.
- Ishiteji Temple
Visit a richly layered temple complex filled with cave passages, pagodas, and weathered pilgrimage detail.
- Kotohiragu Shrine
End at Konpira's hilltop shrine, reached by long stone steps and rewarded with a grand final view.
Where to Eat
- Awa Odori Kaikan RestaurantTokushima regional
Try Tokushima ramen, sudachi citrus dishes, and simple set meals in central Tokushima. It is a convenient first meal near the pilgrimage start.
- Himawari ShokudoJapanese diner
A popular roadside-style stop for curry, noodles, and hearty lunch plates near the Kochi coast. It works well on a long driving day.
- Hirome MarketMarket food
Sample Kochi staples like katsuo tataki, gyoza, and local snacks from many stalls. The lively hall makes an easy dinner stop.
- Mitsuhama ShokudoJapanese diner
Grab a casual meal in Matsuyama before or after Dogo Onsen. Look for udon, rice bowls, and local comfort food.
- Honetsukidori Ikkaku KonyamachiLocal specialty
Taste Kagawa's famous peppery roast chicken with cold beer or rice. It is a classic finish to a pilgrimage loop.
Things to Do
- Awa Odori Kaikancultural museum
Learn about Tokushima's famous dance festival through exhibits and performances. The ropeway up Mount Bizan is right nearby.
- Kochi Castlehistoric castle
Walk the wooden keep, stone ramparts, and old samurai streets in central Kochi. It is one of the best-preserved castles in Japan.
- Cape Ashizuri Observatoryscenic viewpoint
Stop for wide Pacific views and rugged cape scenery at the island's southern tip. Clear days bring dramatic light and long horizons.
- Dogo Onsen Main Buildinghot spring bath
Soak in a legendary bathhouse district tied to centuries of travel and literature. Evening visits are especially atmospheric.
- Konpira Grand Theatrecultural landmark
Visit the old theater town below Kotohiragu for a sense of classic pilgrimage-era entertainment. The area pairs well with shrine steps and local shops.
Travel advisory
Many temple access roads are narrow, and parking can be limited near popular sites. A compact car is easier in older towns and mountain sections, and the route is best done with time for weather changes on coastal and upland roads.