Japan: Shikoku pilgrimage spring 2026
FR

Translated into English.

Original post
AR
hi everyone, I’d like to do the Shikoku pilgrimage in spring 2026—the full circuit (88 temples) with a mix of walking and buses. Buses for the long, straight stretches on busy roads. You’ll need to be able to carry your own bag, so pack light like for a multi-day hike, and have some experience with long-distance walking. Who’s in? A small group of 3 or 4 would be perfect. If there are takers, we’ve got 6 months ahead of us to organize and fine-tune the trip. I’m 73 and used to traveling—I’m not a travel agency, so if you’re interested, at least get the basic info on the route and other useful details first… A trip like this is a group effort. Have a great day, everyone! 😉
TE Tenken ·
Hello, I'm in! I live in Cameroon
Tenken
AR Arvie Regular ·
Hi Patrice, your VF profile is spot-on—it’d be great if you could share a bit more info!
TE Tenken ·
Hi Patrice, your VF profile is spot-on—it’d be great if you could share a bit more info

I’m interested in the Shikoku pilgrimage. I live in Cameroon and I’d like to know how to take part.
Tenken
GY Gypsee ·
Hi Véronique, It’s still a ways off, but I’m already interested in your plans. What daily distance and duration are you thinking of? Best, Olivier
Dites moi de quoi vous avez besoin et je vous dirai comment vous en passer
AR Arvie Regular ·
hi Olivier

I don’t know yet, but I can walk up to 28 km on foot in one stage with my backpack. I haven’t looked closely at the stages yet, especially the accommodations—that’s what determines the length of the stages (unless I carry a tent, which I’m not really into). Plus, I allow myself to take the bus for long straight stretches on tarmac or along busy roads. I want to prioritize walking in nature or the countryside (rural Japan) and take my time on those parts of the route. You can do this pilgrimage by bike—some people do—but cycling isn’t for me. I’m hoping to get some answers and put together a small group of up to 4 people to co-create the route. With 4 of us, we can meet up at the stages... Anyway, for now, it’s just a dream project. I’ll start looking into the organization around October. I’ll keep you posted on progress and if I find any contacts for the project. Have a great summer! Véronique
GY Gypsee ·
Thanks Véronique for this draft project. As an occasional hiker, I don’t know my endurance limits for something like this. Still, during my bike-camping breaks, I make sure to take a daily 8–10 km walk to stay in shape... so I’ll need a lot of training 😅. To be continued... I’m in the mountains right now and starting a paragliding course. Let’s catch up again this autumn... have a great summer too! Best, Olivier Antibes P.S. No idea how Zimbabwe ended up as my location, and I can’t seem to delete it!!!
Dites moi de quoi vous avez besoin et je vous dirai comment vous en passer
MA Marathon Globetrotter ·
I did this pilgrimage entirely on foot, booking accommodations each evening for the next day. No problem, except during Golden Week (late April - early May, absolutely avoid if you can, but I didn’t have a choice with my dates). For that period, I booked up to a week in advance, which wasn’t easy.
KI Kikoiou ·
Hi Véronique, I’ll be available starting May 1, 2026, with no fixed end date. I’m really interested, especially since I’d prefer a walking-only trip (no tent) and would use the bus only for major unexpected situations. Would my dates work for you, or is it too late?
AR Arvie Regular ·
hi Caroline, I sent you a private message 😄
MA Margeof06 ·
Hi Véronique,

It's Patricia from NICE. I'm interested in your project. I'm quite sporty—running and cycling. I usually travel by bike (I know this route can also be done by bike), but why not on foot? It sounds appealing. What are your dates, and is the group already formed?

Patricia, from NICE, 62 years old, still active.

Looking forward to hearing from you
PAT
AR Arvie Regular ·
Patricia, I sent you a private message 😄

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