Complete the Shikoku Pilgrimage (88 temples, Shikoku, Japan)
Walk the traditional Shikoku henro circuit linking the 88 temples associated with Kūkai across Shikoku’s four prefectures. The full route is a mostly circular pilgrimage of roughly 1,100–1,300 km that follows historic paths, roads and coastal sections and is traditionally completed on foot, by bicycle, or by vehicle depending on time and ability. Plan a multi-week staged itinerary (many walkers take 30–60 days, commonly around 40–45 days) and decide whether you will follow the classic temple order from Ryōzen-ji (Temple 1) through to Ōkubo-ji (Temple 88), or complete the circuit in shorter driving/cycling segments. Bookings, luggage transfers or local bus/car legs are common ways to tailor daily distances and recovery days. Prepare with tested long-distance walking kit (comfortable boots, sun and rain protection, layered clothing, nokyocho stamp book and modest pilgrim clothing if desired), a conservative daily distance plan, and contingency funds for accommodation, transport and temple stamp (goshuin/nokyo) fees. Respect temple etiquette, and allow time for quiet reflection at key sites rather than treating the route as a checklist. The pilgrimage is year-round but seasonal conditions strongly affect comfort and safety: spring and autumn are widely preferred for cooler temperatures and clearer weather, while summers can be hot and humid and winters bring colder, mountain-exposed sections. Adjust route, daily mileage and accommodation choices to match fitness, experience and weather forecasts.