Pilgrimage in Japan
Japan has its own very lively pilgrimage culture between Shinto and Buddhism. Along the routes, pilgrims collect seals in a stamp book called a nokyocho or goshuincho, a close relative of the pilgrim passport. The infrastructure is excellent, and small family guesthouses are happy to take in walkers.
4 routes in Japan
| Route | Length | Duration | Difficulty | Best time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Shikoku pilgrimage (88 temples) | around 1,200 km | 40 to 60 days | moderate | March to May, October and November |
| Saigoku Kannon | around 1,000 km | about 5 weeks on foot | moderate | Spring and autumn |
| Kumano Kodo | around 68 km (Nakahechi) | 4 to 5 days | moderate | March to May, October and November |
| Dewa Sanzan | around 2 km up Mount Haguro | 1 to 3 days | moderate | July to October |
Frequently asked questions
What pilgrimage routes are there in Japan?
On this page you will find 4 routes and places in Japan, for example Shikoku pilgrimage (88 temples), Kumano Kodo, Dewa Sanzan, Saigoku Kannon.
What is the longest pilgrimage route in Japan?
Of the routes presented here, Shikoku pilgrimage (88 temples) is the longest: around 1,200 km, duration 40 to 60 days.
What is the shortest pilgrimage route in Japan?
The shortest here is Dewa Sanzan at around 2 km up Mount Haguro, duration 1 to 3 days.