Shikoku Pilgrimage Books, Essays, and Media
Shikoku Pilgrimage Guidebooks & Maps
Shikoku Japan 88 Route Guide
- Language: English
- Author: Tateki Miyazaki
- Editor: Naoyuki Matsushita
- Project Consultant & Translator: David C. Moreton
- Publisher: Buyodo Co. Ltd
- Latest edition: 3rd Edition; February, 2020
If you prefer a physical guidebook, the 88 Route Guide is by far the most popular for walking pilgrims. It contains comprehensive maps with location information and pages covering pilgrimage etiquette and attire. This book is an English translation of the original guidebook.
It can be purchased both online and around the island of Shikoku. Online, you can find it at Amazon Japan, Rakuten, Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai, or from the editor directly at Henro88Map.com. In person, you can pick up a copy at a pilgrimage supply store or at temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
四国遍路 ひとりあるき同行二人［地図編］［解説編］
Shikoku Henro: One Person Walking, Two People Journeying [Maps] [Commentary]
- Language: Japanese
- Author: Tateki Miyazaki
- Editor: Naoyuki Matsushita
- Publisher: Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai
- Latest edition: 12th Edition (Map) & 9th Edition (Commentary)
An excellent pair of walking pilgrim guidebook for those who can read Japanese. This book was originally written by Tateki Miyazaki, a renowned researcher who dedicated himself to the preservation and promotion of the Shikoku Pilgrimage trails. The first guide includes maps and accommodation information. The second is a companion book which includes tips and expert commentary.
They can be purchased online from the Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai, Rakuten, and from pilgrimage supply stores around Shikoku.
Visiting the Sacred Sites of Kukai
- Language: English
- Author: Tateki Miyazaki
- Editor: Naoyuki Matsushita
- Project Consultant & Translator: David C. Moreton
- Publisher: Buyodo Co. Ltd
- Latest edition: 3rd Edition; July, 2014
The English translation of the companion guide from Tateki Miyazaki’s set of guidebooks. It can be purchased online from Amazon or from the editor directly at Henro88Map.com.
The 88 Temples of Shikoku: A Guide for the Walking Pilgrim
- Languages: English, German, French
- Author: Oliver Dunskus
- Publisher: Archtop Publications
- Latest edition: 1st Edition; January 20, 2021 (French and German versions, 2022)
A guide to the Shikoku Pilgrimage written by pilgrimage expert Oliver Dunskus. It can be purchased online from Amazon and most other major book retailers. Based on a pace of 88 temples in 55 days. Every temple (and the stages between them) is described.
88 Temples in 55 Days: A Supplement to the 88 Temples of Shikoku
- Language: English
- Author: Oliver Dunskus
- Publisher: Archtop Publications
- Latest edition: 1st Edition; January 12, 2022
A companion guide to the The Guide for the Walking Pilgrim, also written by pilgrimage expert Oliver Dunskus. Covers recommended restaurants, convenience stores, toilets, public transportation, and rest areas along the route. It can also be purchased online from Amazon and most other major book retailers.
Research & Essays
The Heart of a Henro by Don WeissChannels, Films, and Series
The Shikoku Pilgrimage is “Authentic”! Foreigner ImpressionsA wonderful episode produced by NHK Matsuyama covering the Shikoku Pilgrimage in the eyes of foreign pilgrims. Includes commentary by researcher and Tokushima University professor David Moreton.
BONUS: Henro.org is featured near the end of this episode!
Russian and Japanese YouTubers interview foreign pilgrims to understand their interest in and experiences along the Shikoku Pilgrimage trail. Subtitles available in multiple languages.
NHK Presents: Journeys in Japan OHENROBene sets out on an pilgrimage throughout Shikoku in this 8-part NHK World docuseries.
PBS Presents: Sacred Journeys, Shikoku PilgrimageHost Bruce Feiler walks and documents the Shikoku Pilgrimage in English for an international PBS audience.