Epic Hikes of the World ( PDFDrive )

The good people of Shikoku have been looking after henro for 1200 years, so there
are many places to stay and eat along the trail. Henro stay at shukubo (temple
lodgings), minshuku (family-run B&Bs), ryokan (inns), hotels – or they take the
option of nojuku (sleeping outside). Kōbō-daishi is said to have once slept under a
bridge, so pilgrims never tap their staffs on a bridge in case they wake him up!
ORIENTATION
Start/End // Ryōzen-ji (Temple 1), Naruto City
Distance // 870 miles (1400km)
Duration // Allow 30 to 60 days
Getting there // Fly, train, ferry or bus to Tokushima City; take a JR Kōtoku Line
local train from Tokushima City to Bando (¥260, 25 minutes).
When to go // March to May or September to November.
What to take // Minimal gear, sturdy walking shoes, sleeping bag for nojuku.
Pilgrim clothing is available at Temple 1, the Ryōzen-ji. If looking like a pilgrim isn’t
your thing, wear whatever is comfortable.
Things to know // The traditional way to begin is to go to Kōya-san in Wakayama
Prefecture, where Kōbō-daishi is interred, and ask for his support on your journey.
More info // www.shikokuhenrotrail.com