The Shikoku Pilgrimage, a 1,200-kilometre circuit of 88 temples linked to the revered monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai), traditionally begins in Tokushima, the old province of Awa. Ryozen-ji, near Naruto, is Temple 1 — the customary starting point where pilgrims prepare for the journey, buy their white robes, staff and other gear, and set out. Tokushima represents the pilgrimage’s first stage, the ‘dojo of awakening’ (hosshin), and its 23 temples introduce the rhythm of temple visits, prayer and walking that defines the whole route. You need not walk the full circuit: visitors can experience the pilgrimage’s spirit by visiting Ryozen-ji and a few nearby temples, seeing white-clad pilgrims (henro) begin their journey, and sensing a tradition alive for over a thousand years. Spring and autumn are the classic pilgrimage seasons.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Naruto & across Tokushima |
| Hours | Temples ~7:00–17:00 |
| Admission | Free; sutra book/stamps extra |
| Time needed | A temple visit to days |
| Best time | Spring and autumn pilgrimage seasons |
What to See
- Ryozen-ji (Temple 1), the pilgrimage’s starting point.
- White-clad pilgrims (henro) beginning their journey.
- The ‘dojo of awakening’, Tokushima’s 23 temples.
- Pilgrimage gear: white robes, staff and stamp books.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with the Naruto whirlpools nearby.
- Pair with Tokushima Castle in the city.
- Read our Tokushima overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR to Bando Station near Ryozen-ji.
- By car: parking at the temples across Tokushima.
Tips
Visit Ryozen-ji (Temple 1) to see where the pilgrimage begins, even if you don’t intend to walk it, and consider a sutra stamp book as a meaningful memento started at the very first temple. Observe temple etiquette and respect pilgrims at prayer, come in spring or autumn for the classic seasons, and visit a few of the nearby early temples to sense the pilgrimage’s rhythm.
