Walking Tours in Shikoku - Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Walk - Shikoku Temple Walks - Shikoku Walking Trail - Iya Valley - Mt Tsurugi Hike

The smallest of Japan’s major islands, Shikoku still packs a punch when it comes to incredible walking trails. With each region within Shikoku offering distinct feelings, food and scenery. Stretching through tall Shikoku prefectures, Shikoku 88 pilgrimage route is the most famous of the area. Walk the highlights of this spiritual trail from temple to temple or walk the streets of Shikoku’s largest city of Matsuyama in Ehime prefecture. Discover ancient Japanese architecture of the castle in Kochi or explore the surrounding caves, beaches and mountains. Discover the stunning natural beauty of the ...

Best Walks & Hikes in Shikoku

- Walk the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail trailing around the island and uncovering the 88 temples. Pilgrims have walked the trail for 1200 years and even today we can see pilgrims in their distinctive white attire throughout the island of Shikoku. You'll walk on some of the best sections of the pilgrimage trail to experience the special pilgrimage atmosphere of natural beauty and the pursuit of spiritual perfection.

- Venture to the secluded Iya Valley, home to deep rocky gorges, dramatic mountain scenery, traditional thatched roof homes, and historic vine bridges, where you'll hike to the famous “Hi-no-Ji" Bend, cross Iya-no-Kazura Bashi Bridge, and climb Mt Tsurugi.

We offer guided and self-guided walking tours in Shikoku, so whether you want some insightfulness from a handpicked local guide, or to take things at your own pace, Onlyluxe Travel will ensure your travel needs are truly satisfied. We also offer private or small group journeys for individuals, groups or family travel, whatever your travel style may be.

With a large collection, you can use our TOUR FINDER to find the right tour for your next holiday. Or simply call, email us or live chat us now.

Best of Japan’s Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail 11D10N, Self Guided

Curated for avid hikers, connect with enlightening spirits as you journey Japan's Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail, carefully selecting the best walks and accommodations along the route in Tokushima, Kagawa and Ehime. Embark on spiritual self-guided walks by day and experience an authentic pilgrimage journey, staying in traditional Minshuku, Ryokan, and Shukubo temple lodging offering delicious regional cuisine and natural hot springs. From dramatic scenery, ancient paths to awe inspiring history; escape to a truly quintessential Japanese experience on this 11 days Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail that will leave you enlightened.

Begin your spiritual journey in Osaka, where you’ll journey by express train to Kyoto city. Spend a day exploring the delights and natural wonders of Japan’s former capital boasting tranquil temples and gardens and traditional teahouses. From Day 3, you begin your ultimate pilgrimage journey beginning with a gentle introduction walk on Shikoku towards 3 of the most captivating temples on the entire trail. From Day 4-10, delve deeper into the ancient Shikoku trail with carefully selected sections of the best and most beautiful walks on the route. Over these days, you’ll hike to discover an array of Buddhist temples, climb the iconic ladder to Kōbō Daishi’s meditation spot and discover quaint villages including Tokushima Prefecture, small Onsen village of Kamiyama, old hot-spring town of Kotohira Spa, Imabari town and more. Your inspiring pilgrimage walk ends in the east of Ehime Prefecture traversing a rural area of Shikoku and the temples set in lovely natural settings. Your journey ends with a train back to Osaka with an overnight stay.

This adventure package includes 10 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis. All accommodations on your spiritual journey have been handpicked to reflect and fit the authenticity of your pilgrimage; deepen the transcendent connection in a mix of stays from traditional Minshuku, Ryokan, and Shukubo temple lodging. Ryokan and Minshuku are traditional Japanese-style inns with rooms in Japanese style with tatami (straw) matting and futons. Minshuku are mostly shared toilet and bathing facilities. Shukubo are lodgings in Buddhist temples originally meant for pilgrims where rooms are similar to a Ryokan or Minshuku, though with fewer facilities. In Kyoto and Osaka city, you’ll stay at 4-star hotels. During your hiking days, transfers are either by train, bus and/or a pre-booked and prepaid taxi. Meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

Unite with a transcendent sense of self. Feel and accept spiritual depth on a 11-day journey through enlightening temples and sites to uncover the ancient and peace-imbuing secrets of Japan's ancient Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

Osaka

Curated for avid hikers, connect with enlightening spirits as you journey Japan's Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail, carefully selecting the best walks and accommodations along the ...

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From A$7,150.00 Per Person, Twin Share

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Luxury Seto Inland Sea Art Island & Pilgrimage Walks (Shodoshima, Teshima, Naoshima & Shikoku Islands) 6D5N

Immerse yourself in a transcendent, six-day odyssey through the ethereal islands of Shodoshima, Teshima, Naoshima, and Shikoku. With an intimate group of just six people, you will journey through the Seto Inland Sea, where art, spirituality, and luxury converge in unforgettable harmony.

Journey to Shodoshima Island, known for its olive groves, dramatic valleys, and historic pilgrimage route inspired by Shikoku’s legendary path. Explore centuries-old soy sauce traditions and trek the Shodoshima Pilgrimage Trail. Visit Teshima’s tranquil terraces, home to the awe-inspiring Teshima Art Museum and stunning installations, or immerse yourself in Naoshima, the famed “Art Island,” with highlights like Benesse House Museum, Chichu Art Museum, and Yayoi Kusama's iconic works. On Shikoku Island, uncover the spiritual essence of ancient temples and sacred trails, and marvel at the mesmerizing whirlpools of Naruto Strait, a natural phenomenon like no other.

Signature experiences include guided walks along pilgrimage routes steeped in Buddhist tradition, exclusive viewings of contemporary art blending seamlessly with nature, and cultural rituals like a sacred fire ceremony and traditional tea service with monks. Indulge in Shodoshima’s soy sauce-inspired kaiseki cuisine, savor refined meals in Takamatsu's historic ryōtei, and enjoy a private cruise to witness the stunning Naruto whirlpools from a captain’s lounge.

Each evening, retreat to luxurious, handpicked accommodations. Relax at Shima Yado Mari boutique ryokan on Shodoshima with private onsen baths and soy-inspired dining, or stay at Ryokan Roka on Naoshima, where tatami tradition meets modern comfort. On Shikoku, unwind at Komatsushima Resort, nestled between mountains and the Pacific, or rejuvenate at the cliffside sanctuary of Hotel Ridge in Naruto, offering serene wellness and unmatched hospitality.

This immersive journey unfolds over 6 days and 5 nights, beginning and concluding in Kobe. It is designed for various activity levels (Level 1-3), featuring invigorating hikes and pilgrimage walks, all seamlessly woven into an experience of pure artistry and refinement.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.

Kobe

Immerse yourself in a transcendent, six-day odyssey through the ethereal islands of Shodoshima, Teshima, Naoshima, and Shikoku. With an intimate group of just six ...

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From A$10,550.00 Per Person, Twin Share

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Shikoku Luxury Loop Mountain to Sea 8D7N, Private Guided

Route: Shikoku Island - Takamatsu - 88 Pilgrimage Trail - Iya Valley - Kochi - Tokushima

The undeveloped scenery, awe inspiring scale, depth of history and world-class cuisine of Japan await on this spectacular 8-day luxury journey around Shikoku. Venture to Japan's last frontier, walk the Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail, stroll in one of Japan's most beautiful feudal lord gardens, cross suspended vine bridges in the picturesque Iya Valley, and discover the south coast of Shikoku and Naruto Strait. Benefit from the expertise of a professional English-speaking Japanese guide and private transfers throughout the journey. You'll just relax and enjoy some of the most beautiful hikes as well as overnight stays with the finest accommodation along the route, offering delicious regional cuisine and natural hot springs.

Synonymous with the natural beauty and the pursuit of spiritual perfection, Shikoku is home to Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage and dramatic landscapes. This hand crafted itinerary combines the best walks, cultural sightseeings and unmissable destinations. This luxury journey takes you to Tokushima, Iya Valley, Kochi and Katsurahama and Naruto.

The luxurious accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 4 and 5 star hotels and boutique Japanese ryokans.

Most meals are included for the duration of the tour. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine. Please refer to the itinerary for the meal inclusion.

The tour includes 7 nights accommodation, meals as mentioned in the itinerary, English speaking guide(s), all transportation during the tour, all entry tickets/park fees, and luggage transfers.

This is the luxury discovery of Japan's smallest island Shikoku. This incredible journey will inspire with its scale, natural beauty and depth of history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.

Luggage Transfer

Luggage transfers are included in the package. Please see the itinerary for the details.

Departure Dates

Departs daily on request

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.

Tokushima

Route: Shikoku Island - Takamatsu - 88 Pilgrimage Trail - Iya Valley - Kochi - Tokushima The undeveloped scenery, awe inspiring scale, depth of history ...

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From A$13,350.00 Per Person, Twin Share

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