Guidebooks

There are many books on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Here are some recommended guidebooks that are essential reading before and during your trip.。

In English

Shikoku Japan 88 Course Guide

Price: ¥1,980 (Inc. tax)　Publisher: Buyōdō　Size: A5

This is an English-language guide map based on Shikoku Pilgrimage Alone, Dōgyō Ninin (Japanese-language, see below), considered the “bible” of walking pilgrims. It provides all the necessary information on the map, such as temples, lodgings, public restrooms, rest areas, convenience stores and restaurants. The information pages on temple etiquette and so on are compactly organized. It is a must-have for pilgrims who cannot read Japanese-language guide books. It is available from Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai , the author Matsushita’s website, Amazon Japan, Rakuten Ichiba, and several pilgrimage supply stores.

Visiting the Sacred Sites of Kūkai

Price: ¥1,650 (Inc. tax)　Publisher: Buyōdō　Size: B5

This is the English version of Shikoku Pilgrimage Alone, Dōgyō Ninin. It includes basic knowledge and know-how on walking the Shikoku Pilgrimage, as well as a list of 238 temples, including Bekkaku 20 Temples. It is available from Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai, Amazon Japan, Rakuten Ichiba, and several pilgrimage supply stores. Amazon US also has a kindle edition.

In Japanese

Shikoku Henro Hitori Aruki Dōgyō Ninin (two-volume set), Maps and Commentary
四国遍路 ひとりあるき同行二人［地図編］［解説編］

Price: Maps ¥3,300 (Inc. tax), Commentary ¥1,100 (Inc. tax)　
Publisher: Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai  Size: B5

This is the definitive guide for walking pilgrims, written by Miyazaki Tateki, a leading researcher on pilgrimage courses who devoted himself to the restoration and maintenance of the pilgrimage courses. The Maps volume is a collection of maps and information on accommodation. The list of approximately 650 accommodations includes distances from the previous and next temples, which is useful when planning your itinerary. The Commentary volume provides basic knowledge and know-how on the walking pilgrimage, as well as a list of 238 temples, including the Bekkaku Temples. Both books are available from Henromichi Hozon Kyōryokukai (Pilgrim Path Preservation Cooperative Association ), Rakuten Ichiba, and several pilgrimage supply stores.

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