Preparing for a Shikoku pilgrimage is an exciting adventure that will stay with you for a lifetime. This journey is not only about visiting beautiful temples but also about personal growth and reflection. In this guide, you’ll find helpful tips on what to pack, how to plan, and what to expect as you prepare for this unforgettable experience. Whether you’re walking the famous 88-temple route or exploring the peaceful countryside, preparing for your Shikoku pilgrimage will ensure it’s a journey like no other.
Preparing Physically for the Shikoku Pilgrimage
You don’t need to be an athlete to do the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but preparation is key. Even though I’m an avid hiker, I wasn’t used to long distances—usually no more than 10 miles.
To get ready for Shikoku, I started walking every day months before my trip. I gradually increased my distance, which helped me build stamina and get my body ready for the pilgrimage.
On the Shikoku pilgrimage, most of the trails are paved—about 80-90%. There are different paths you can take to each temple, but I found that the mountain trails, marked as blue trails, were easier on my feet. Although they were steeper and harder to navigate, the soft, natural surface was gentler on my joints compared to the hard pavement.
Preparing for Shikoku means building endurance, picking the right shoes, and learning about the different trails. Mixing both paved and rugged paths in your training will help you get ready for the variety of terrains on the pilgrimage.
This preparation will not only improve your physical fitness but also make your pilgrimage experience even more rewarding.
Packing Light for a Comfortable Journey
Preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage means packing light to make your journey more enjoyable. The lighter your backpack, the better your experience will be. My 28-liter backpack started at 12 pounds, but after walking and climbing steep paths, even that felt heavy. So, when preparing for Shikoku, pack as lightly as possible from the start.
If you find you’ve packed too much, you can always send some items ahead to another place or back home through a shipping company called “Black Cat” (Kuroneko Yamato). I had to ship things twice during my pilgrimage, and even sending 3-5 pounds made a huge difference in how comfortable and energized I felt.
Remember, you’ll likely pick up some weight along the way with food and other small items. Starting with a light pack is key. Only bring the essentials—comfortable clothes, toiletries, a first aid kit, water, snacks, and any important documents. A lighter pack will make it easier to navigate the mix of paved roads and mountain trails, allowing you to focus on the journey rather than the weight of your gear.
Essential Items to Prepare for the Shikoku Pilgrimage
When preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, packing the right essentials is key to ensuring a smooth and comfortable journey. Here’s a list of must-bring items that will make your pilgrimage easier and more enjoyable:
1. Comfortable Footwear
One of the most important things to bring when preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage is a good pair of shoes. You’ll be walking long distances on a variety of terrains, so make sure your shoes are sturdy, comfortable, and already broken in to avoid blisters.
It’s also a good idea to have two pairs of shoes ready, as brand-new shoes typically last around 350-500 miles. Make sure to select breathable shoes, as your feet will get very hot when the weather warms up.
I made the mistake of bringing my waterproof hiking boots. When the weather warmed up, my feet became extremely hot and swollen. If you can’t find good walking shoes that are not waterproof, it’s better to bring a comfortable pair that isn’t waterproof than to bring waterproof hiking boots. This will ensure your feet stay comfortable and cool throughout the journey.
2. Blister-Free Socks
Good blister-free socks are crucial for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Thanks to a recommendation from a fellow Henro, I purchased blister-free socks from Wrightsock. Over the course of 48 days, walking 6-7 hours a day, I only experienced two minor blisters.
These double-layer socks are designed to reduce friction, preventing blisters and making long walks much more comfortable. You’ll need at least two pairs, as you’ll want to rotate them during your journey. In my opinion, these socks are a must-have for anyone preparing for the pilgrimage.
3. Clothing for All Weather
The weather in Shikoku can change quickly, so when preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, it’s important to pack clothing for all kinds of conditions. Bring lightweight, breathable clothes for hot days, and a waterproof jacket or layers for colder or rainy weather. To keep your pack light, avoid heavy clothes. Moisture-wicking clothes are especially important for staying comfortable during your journey.
I learned this the hard way. At first, I wore my old tank top, which caused heat rashes during the first week—super uncomfortable. Investing in high-quality moisture-wicking hiking pants and shirts made a huge difference. These clothes help keep you dry and regulate your body temperature, reducing the risk of rashes and discomfort.
4. Toiletries
Most toiletries can be bought in Shikoku, but if you want to bring your favorite items, I recommend packing travel-sized toothpaste, toothbrush, and any daily personal hygiene items. Travel-sized versions will save space and weight in your bag.
For shampoo and conditioner, there’s no need to bring them since all accommodations, including guesthouses and hostels, provide these essentials. If you need them, you can easily buy them at grocery or convenience stores. Convenience stores are available everywhere in Shikoku and throughout Japan, offering a wide range of basic necessities, including food.
5. First Aid Kit
A small first aid kit with band-aids, pain relievers, and any personal medication is essential when preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It’s always best to be ready for minor injuries or health concerns that may arise during the journey.
Blisters can be a major issue during long walks, even with blister-free socks. Bringing medical tape or band-aids specifically for blisters is important. Even with the best socks, you might still get blisters. Thanks to a fellow Henro who shared these items, I was able to avoid many blisters. As soon as you feel one forming, tape the area to prevent it from getting worse.
6. Sunscreen and Hat
The sun can be strong, especially during the summer, so when preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, be sure to bring sunscreen to protect your skin. A hat can also help shield you from the sun, keeping you more comfortable throughout your journey. However, I found the Ohenro hats (sedge hats) available for purchase there to be quite uncomfortable, so I decided not to buy one and wore my own hat instead.
For me, one of the most valuable items I brought was my mother’s pink umbrella. I almost didn’t pack it, but it turned out to be essential. It not only protected me from snow and rain but also served as excellent sun protection. No matter how much sunscreen you use, nothing beats the protection an umbrella provides.
Even though I carried it the entire time, it became a crucial part of my pilgrimage. So, if you’re preparing for Shikoku, a sturdy umbrella will be your best friend against the elements—rain, snow, or sun.
7. Portable Charger
When preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, a small, lightweight portable charger is a must-have. Since you’ll be walking for 6-7 hours daily, especially if you plan to use the Henro Helper app, having a charger with you is essential. While you can find chargers at coffee shops and convenience stores, it’s important to have your own in case your phone runs out of battery. This is one of the most important items to carry during your journey.
8. Lightweight Backpack
Finally, make sure you have a comfortable, lightweight backpack. Since you’ll be walking long distances, your pack should fit well and not weigh you down. Keep it light by only bringing what’s necessary. I recommend keeping it under 10 pounds for women and under 15 pounds for men, but the lighter, the better.
Things to Leave Out for Shikoku Pilgrimage
Even though I tried to pack light, I still ended up bringing some things I didn’t need. No matter how small, every item adds up. When preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, here are a few things you can skip to make your journey more comfortable:
Excess Clothing: I brought three pairs of everything, including underwear and socks, but I wished I had only brought two. Most places have washing machines and dryers available for a small fee, so you can easily wash your clothes as needed.
Travel Towel: I didn’t find it necessary. While some places might not provide towels (which is rare), you can usually rent one for a small fee. It’s not worth carrying one around.
Outlet Adapter: I brought one but didn’t need it at all. Most modern accommodations have the right outlets for your devices.
Getting Ready for the Shikoku Pilgrimage
Preparing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage is all about making sure you’re physically ready and packing only what you truly need. By keeping your gear light and focusing on the essentials, you’ll make your journey more enjoyable and manageable.
With the right preparation, you can focus on the spiritual and physical experience, allowing the pilgrimage to be a memorable and rewarding adventure. Trust that the time you spend getting ready will make all the difference once you’re on the path.
Be sure to check out my posts about my daily rituals in Shikoku and the health lessons I learned during my journey.
