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The Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage Explained
An overview of Japan's Shikoku 88 temple circuit associated with Kukai: how it is organised, the four prefectures, and how pilgrims walk or travel it.
East Asia
Japan Pilgrim Routes
The Shikoku trail and other temple circuits of Japan.
Etiquette at Japanese Temples and Shrines
A general guide to bowing, hand purification, incense and the differences between Buddhist temple and Shinto shrine customs in Japan, with notes on variation.
Kukai and the Origins of the Shikoku Route
What history and tradition say about Kukai, also called Kobo Daishi, and how the Shikoku circuit came to be linked with him, separating record from legend.
Osettai: Gifts to Pilgrims on Shikoku
Learn about osettai, the Shikoku custom of locals offering food, drink and help to pilgrims, why it is given, and how to receive it with courtesy and gratitude.
Pilgrim Lodgings in Japan: Shukubo and Henro Inns
A general guide to temple lodging (shukubo) and pilgrim inns in Japan: what rooms, meals and morning services are like, and the customs guests are expected to follow.
Temple Stamp Books and Calligraphy Seals
How Japanese pilgrim stamp books (nokyocho) and temple seals work, what the calligraphy records, and why they are religious records rather than souvenirs.
The Henro Pilgrim Outfit and Its Meaning
A look at the traditional henro outfit of Shikoku, including the white vest, sedge hat, staff and stole, and the symbolism that tradition attaches to each item.
The Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage
A general introduction to the Saigoku Kannon pilgrimage, the traditional circuit of 33 temples devoted to Kannon in western Japan, and how it differs from Shikoku.
Walking Versus Travelling the Shikoku Route
A balanced look at the pros and cons of walking, cycling or driving the Shikoku circuit, and how some pilgrims pace the 88 temples in separate sections.
What Happens at Each Shikoku Temple
A general walkthrough of the usual sequence at a Shikoku temple: bowing, purification, bell, offerings, candles, incense, chanting, name slips and the stamp office.
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