Shikoku Pilgrimage Information Center

The Shikoku Pilgrimage Information Center is working to improve the environment for foreign visitors so that they can safely and comfortably travel around the Shikoku pilgrimage area.

This activity began in May 2021 after the Hyakujushi Economic Research Institute* was commissioned by the Shikoku Transport Bureau of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure, Transport, and Tourism. As part of the FY2021 project*, we collected and organized information within the region, offered information in English on the website, developed model courses, created a system of tourist service centers, and conducted evaluations by foreign monitors. In collaboration with the local government, prefectural tourism associations, and many private businesses and experts, we have been working to build a foundation as a host destination. In addition, we are preparing a multi-lingual website where visitors can refer to explanations about the 88 temples via QR codes placed at each temple***.

In the FY2022 Project**, we created a system for bicycle rental and luggage transportation to improve the mobility environment, strengthened local coordination to ascertain the latest status of pilgrimage routes and facilities, and conducted promotions for foreign trail enthusiasts. In addition, a multilingual website was set up so that information on each temple can be accessed from QR codes placed at the 88 temples***.

In FY2023, we will continue to be commissioned to operate the Pilgrimage Information Center within the Hyakujushi Economic Research Institute. In this year’s project ****, we plan to try promotion for overseas residents, trial a one-stop support system from visiting Shikoku to leaving, expand information provision using QR codes, and conduct a dynamic survey of foreign tourists using digital technology.

From a global perspective, our objective is to provide highly qualified, standardized information on pilgrimage courses, the region, and tourism, to enhance convenience for travelers, and to improve the system for accepting visitors. We also aim to operate as a sustainable, independent organization in the future.

*”FY2021 Shikoku District Transport Bureau, Demonstration Project to rebuild the Environment for Accepting Visitors to the Shikoku Pilgrimage with a theme of Adventure Travel and Long Trails”
**”FY2022 Shikoku District Transport Bureau, Demonstration Project for Establishment of a Center with the Function of Managing the Shikoku Pilgrimage as Long Trails
***FY2022 Shikoku District Transport Bureau, Survey Project for Tourism Promotion Based on the Shikoku Pilgrimage
**** FY2023 Shikoku District Transport Bureau, Survey Project for improving the reception environment for Shikoku pilgrims using DX.

We, Hyakujushi Economic Research Institute, are a regional bank-affiliated think tank in Kagawa Prefecture with a mission of regional revitalization.