Saigoku Kannon

In short: Saigoku Kannon: from Seiganto-ji to Kegon-ji. Length: around 1,000 km, duration: about 5 weeks on foot. Best time: Spring and autumn.

Overview

The Saigoku pilgrimage leads to 33 temples dedicated to the bodhisattva Kannon. It is considered Japan's oldest temple circuit and lies in the west of the main island, including in Kyoto and Nara.

The number 33 stands for the 33 forms Kannon can take to help people. Most pilgrims today travel by train and bus and visit the temples in sections. On foot it is around 1,000 kilometres.

The circuit appeals to travellers because it combines world-famous temples such as Kiyomizu-dera with quiet mountain temples. As on Shikoku, there is a stamp book that slowly fills up.

Planning your stages

How long you need depends on your daily distance. The table works this out for 1000 kilometres, with one rest day a week.

Who is this route for?

With some hiking experience this route is very manageable. Expect climbs and keep your days from getting too long.

You can find more routes under Pilgrimage routes in Asia, Pilgrimage in Japan, sorted by religion under Buddhist pilgrimage routes.