During my 48-day journey on the Shikoku pilgrimage, each day was filled with its own set of challenges and rewards. From early mornings of walking to visiting sacred temples, my daily life revolved around the rhythm of the Shikoku pilgrimage. Along the way, I experienced the simple yet profound rituals that connect pilgrims to the spiritual energy of the land. In this post, I’ll share what my daily life looked like and offer insights into what you can expect if you decide to take this journey yourself.
Purpose and Growth on the Pilgrimage
I chose to undertake the Shikoku pilgrimage because I wanted to engage in something meaningful. The thought of walking through Japan, visiting sacred temples, and following in the footsteps of past pilgrims felt truly special. I saw this pilgrimage as a chance not only to challenge myself but also to connect with Japan’s rich spiritual traditions.
Walking the Shikoku pilgrimage allowed me to experience the daily life of a pilgrim and immerse myself in the culture. It gave me the opportunity to slow down and reflect, stepping away from the constant pace of life.
I could focus on what truly matters—self-reflection, personal growth, and understanding the customs and rituals of a place with deep history. This pilgrimage was more than just visiting temples. It was about learning, connecting, and embracing something far greater than myself.
My Journey on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
For 48 days, my daily life as a Shikoku pilgrim was simple but meaningful. Each day began early as my two friends and I set out to walk long distances between temples. The journey was physically challenging, but the beauty of the surroundings and the peaceful atmosphere kept us going. We followed a routine of visiting temples, reflecting on our journey, and participating in small rituals that were part of the pilgrimage.
Along the way, we met many special people, from locals who cheered us on and offered osettai (gifts) to fellow pilgrims who shared their stories. We stayed in various places, from guesthouses to temple lodgings, and each night we rested and prepared for the next day. Our days were focused on the pilgrimage—walking, learning, and connecting with the spiritual tradition of Shikoku.
Our Daily Life on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
Morning Routine:
Each day on the Shikoku pilgrimage began at 6 am. We would wake up, pack our bags with everything we needed for the day, and enjoy breakfast. Sometimes, we ate food we brought with us, while other times, we were treated to a warm meal by the friendly homestays where we stayed.
This simple routine helped set the tone for our day, ensuring we were prepared and ready for whatever adventures lay ahead along the pilgrimage trail in Shikoku.
The Walk:
The walk itself was both challenging and rewarding. We covered about 15 to 20 miles each day, depending on the distance between temples. The path changed daily—from walking through forests to quiet country roads, and sometimes even along rice fields.
We would stop occasionally to rest, drink water, or chat with locals who would offer osettai (gifts) to pilgrims like us. Their kindness and encouragement made the journey feel even more special.
Midday Break:
Around midday, as part of the daily life on the Shikoku pilgrimage, we would find a spot to rest. We’d enjoy a light meal, typically rice balls from convenience stores or some fruit.
This break gave us the chance to recharge, rest our tired feet, and maintain our energy for the rest of the walk. It was a simple meal, but essential for keeping our bodies fueled during the long hours of walking.
Temple Visits:
In the afternoon, we would arrive at one of the 88 temples on the pilgrimage. We’d take time to reflect, pray, and participate in the rituals. One meaningful part of the experience was writing our names and the date on prayer slips, which we would offer at the temple.
These slips were a simple way to mark our presence and connect with the spiritual journey of the pilgrimage. The quiet moments at each temple were calming, bringing peace and a deeper connection to our journey.
Evening Rest:
After a long day, we would find a place to rest for the night, whether at a guesthouse or temple lodging. Most of the places offered a comforting hot meal, but if not, we’d head to a nearby restaurant for dinner.
After eating, we would usually spend some time planning for the next day. Since many guesthouses and temples were fully booked, we typically made our reservations at least a week in advance.
Our daily evening life on the Shikoku pilgrimage included chatting with the host or other pilgrims, sharing stories, and reflecting on the day’s walk. After a refreshing shower or onsen, we’d rest our tired bodies and feet. We would fall asleep around 9 pm, ready for another day on the pilgrimage.
Simple Daily Life on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
The daily life of a Shikoku pilgrim is both simple and transformative. Each day began early with long walks between temples, where we experienced both challenges and moments of calm reflection. Along the way, we learned to find comfort in small breaks and simple meals, adapting to the rhythm of the journey.
Despite the physical demands, there was never any doubt or thought of quitting. The routine of walking, resting, and reflecting became a fulfilling part of the pilgrimage. Looking back, I long for the simplicity of that life, where every step and moment felt meaningful and connected.
If you’re planning the Shikoku pilgrimage, check out my post on how to prepare for this amazing journey.
