Shikoku Pilgrimage

The Shikoku Pilgrimage is a famous spiritual journey in Japan that involves visiting 88 Buddhist temples on Shikoku Island. This pilgrimage is traditionally associated with the 8th-century monk Kobo Daishi, who is revered as the founder of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Pilgrims, known as "henro," often walk the 1,200 kilometers (about 750 miles) over several weeks, seeking spiritual enlightenment and personal reflection. Along the way, participants wear white clothing and carry a staff, and they may chant sutras and offer prayers at each temple, deepening their connection to Buddhist teachings and practices.