Getting to Shikoku and Temple 1

Travel by RailJR PassJR Shikoku PassGetting to ShikokuFrom HiroshimaFrom Kyoto StationFrom OsakaFrom Tokyo

Travel by Rail

Japan Rail Pass

For visitors primarily traveling by train, the Japan JR Rail Pass offers a potential cost-saving option, though its value depends on your specific itinerary. This pass permits unlimited access to most services operated by Japan Railways (JR), including the high-speed Shinkansen (bullet trains), as well as certain buses and ferries.

However, it is important to note that the JR Rail Pass is only valid for JR-operated routes and may not cover all travel needs, particularly in areas served primarily by other rail companies or local buses. Along the pilgrimage route in Shikoku, you may find that it is most useful only around larger cities such as Tokushima, Takamatsu, and Matsuyama. Among the prefectures, it has the least amount of coverage in Kochi.

Unless you are planning on using the Japan Rail Pass to traverse other parts of Japan, the Shikoku Rail Pass is usually more suitable for pilgrims in Shikoku. Comparatively, the Shikoku Rail Pass is less than half the price of a Japan Rail Pass, and offers a few more local trains lines.

An overview of the Japan Rail Pass’s coverage can be found here.

All Shikoku Rail Pass

For pilgrims exploring Shikoku with a mix of long-distance walking, rail, and bus transportation, the All Shikoku Rail Pass presents a tailored and cost-effective option. Unlike the broader Japan Rail Pass, the All Shikoku Rail Pass covers additional local train lines, offering a more extensive network within the Shikoku region. This aspect is particularly beneficial for those seeking to visit the numerous cultural and historical sites scattered across the island.

The All Shikoku Rail PassThe All Shikoku Rail Pass

It is also more affordable compared to the Japan Rail Pass. As a bonus, the pass includes access to the Shodoshima Ferry and Olive Bus, enabling pilgrims and tourists alike to extend their journey to the tranquil island of Shodoshima to visit a few extra temples. Overall, the All Shikoku Rail Pass is an excellent resource offering convenience and value.

An overview of the Shikoku Rail Pass’s coverage can be found here.

The Shodoshima Ferry port in Takamatsu.The Shodoshima Ferry port in Takamatsu.

Getting to Shikoku

Stations near Temple 1:

Public transportation near Temple 1
  • Bando train station (JR Tokushima line) - 15 minute walk
  • Naruto-nishi bus station (Intercity bus service) - 20 minute walk
  • Ryozenji-mae bus station (Local - Tokushima Bus) - 2 minute walk

From Hiroshima

  1. Take the express bus to Naruto-nishi Station from the Hiroshima Bus Center.The Hiroshima Bus Center is located near Kencho-mae station behind Mielparque Hiroshima Hotel.

From Kyoto Station

  1. At Kyoto Station, take the JR Shikoku Bus (Takamatsu Express Kyoto) or an express bus located at the Kyoto Station JR Kōsoku bus terminal outside the Karasumaguchi exit.

From Osaka

Kansai International Airport

  1. Take the bus to Tokushima Station.
  2. Take the JR train (Kotoku Line) from Tokushima Station to Bando Station.

Osaka (Itami) Airport

  1. Take the bus from Osaka Airport to Shin-Osaka Station
  2. Take the express bus to Naruto-nishi station.

or

  1. Take the bus from the airport to Tokushima Station (Japanese-only website)
  2. Take the JR train (Kotoku Line) from Tokushima Station to Bando Station.

Osaka Station

  1. Take the JR Shikoku Bus (Takamatsu Express Osaka) or the express bus located at the Osaka Station JR Kōsoku bus terminal to the Naruto-nishi station.

or

  1. Take the bus from Osaka Station to Tokushima Station (Japanese-only website).
  2. Take the JR train (Kotoku Line) from Tokushima Station to Bando Station.

Shin-Osaka Station

  1. Take the express bus to Naruto-nishi station.

From Tokyo

Tokyo Station Bullet Train

  1. Take the Tokaido Shinkansen (bullet train) at the station.
  2. Take the express bus to Naruto-nishi station.

Tokyo Station or Shinjuku Station

  1. At Tokyo Station, take the express bus to Tokushima Station located inside the Kajibashi parking lot, which is outside the Yaesuguchi exit. At Shinjuku Station, take the South exit to get on the same express bus.
  2. Take the JR train (Kotoku Line) from Tokushima Station to Bando Station.

Tokyo Port

  1. Take the Tokyo Ocean Ferry that departs Tokyo Port every night. The ferry departs at 19:10 and arrives at Tsuda Port in Tokushima at 13:10 the next day. Reservation required.
  2. At the port, take a bus to Tokushima Station.
  3. Take the JR train (Kotoku Line) from Tokushima Station to Bando Station.