A Moment with Your New Self Guided by the Ohenro
Connecting People to One Another for 100 Years Through the Culture of the Ohenro
About Ohenro
A Journey of Self-Reflection
in the Beautiful and Serene Nature of Shikoku
What is Ohenro?
Ohenro is a traditional religious pilgrimage to 88 sacred sites in Shikoku, Japan. It is carried out in remembrance of the training and teachings of Kobo Daishi (Kukai).
Beyond faith and prayer, it is also known as a spiritual journey for purification and self-discovery, attracting many participants from Japan and around the world.
Origins and History
The origins of Ohenro date back to the Heian period (794-1185).
The oldest records indicate that this pilgrimage was already being practiced in the 12th century. By the Edo period (1603-1868), it had become popular among commoners.
Pilgrimage Route and Distance
The pilgrimage covers a distance of approximately 1,200 km, spanning the four prefectures of Shikoku (Tokushima, Kochi, Ehime, and Kagawa) and visiting 88 temples.。
Symbols and Equipment of the Pilgrimage
Ohenro is associated with several symbolic items that are deeply connected to faith and ritual. Pilgrims typically wear a white robe called "Byakue" and carry a staff known as "Kongōzue."
Spiritual and Cultural Appeal
Walking through majestic nature brings peace to the heart and offers an opportunity for self-discovery.
Encountering historical temples and breathtaking landscapes allows one to escape daily life and experience a sense of tranquility. This journey, rich in traditional culture, provides a deeply moving experience and unforgettable memories.
Ohenro is more than just a Buddhist pilgrimage.
It is a treasured cultural heritage of Japan.
This pilgrimage, set against the beautiful nature of Shikoku, offers many people a chance to reflect on themselves and feel connected to others, remaining highly appealing even today.
This journey, which takes time and distance to complete, is a valuable experience that continues to leave a deep impression on many people. We hope that people from around the world will learn about this wonderful cultural experience and take an interest in it.
Henro House Shikoku 88
The ”Henro House Shikoku 88” is a pilgrimage accommodation network that spans across the four prefectures of Shikoku.
The Shikoku 88 Temples pilgrimage is a renowned journey that has been cherished by many for centuries as one of Japan's most iconic pilgrimages.
Henro House Shikoku 88 supports pilgrims by providing clean and comfortable accommodations along the 88 temples of Shikoku.
Whether you're a beginner or an experienced pilgrim, anyone can enjoy the warm hospitality of the local community while experiencing peaceful moments.
We support those who are undertaking the pilgrimage for prayer, training, or healing, with the hope that this wonderful pilgrimage culture will continue into the future.
This pilgrimage, set against the backdrop of Shikoku's beautiful nature, offers many people the opportunity to reflect on their inner selves and feel connected to others. Even today, it holds great appeal.
The journey, which takes time and distance, is a valuable experience that continues to deeply inspire many people. We hope that people from overseas will also come to know this remarkable cultural experience and become interested in it.
Affordable Pricing
It offers simple stays in the form of overnight stays with no meal and shared rooms, eliminating the hassle of reservations, making it easy to use and affordable.
Multilingual Reservation Site
An English version of the reservation site has been launched to make it easy for young people and foreigners to use
More than 50 accommodations along the pilgrimage route
We offer over 50 accommodation facilities along the pilgrimage route across the four prefectures of Shikoku.
Gallery
User Testimonials
Here are some testimonials from people who have used the Ohenro House Shikoku 88.
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S.N
（40s）I was able to start my pilgrimage with confidence, having received kind and detailed guidance on purchasing pilgrimage goods and proper etiquette. Above all, I was introduced to accommodations that matched my pace, and thanks to the "introduction relay," I was able to secure wonderful lodging.
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O.H
（20s）As a beginner to the pilgrimage, I was guided from scratch on how to arrange accommodations and perform the pilgrimage properly. I’ve been a repeat visitor ever since, and I especially love the breakfast offered by the host.
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J.A
（60s）I was able to consult about any difficulties I encountered, and despite nearly giving up halfway, I was able to complete the pilgrimage. I highly recommend it to first-timers, especially those walking the pilgrimage.
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C.R
（30s）I’m glad I started my pilgrimage here. They were very kind and welcoming, and they taught me what I need to know to successfully complete my pilgrimage. This is a must-visit accommodation for serious pilgrims.
Book Ohenro House Shikoku 88 Here
You can check the details and availability of each accommodation facility here.
Experience Tour
"Hikikomori Henro"
Ohenro House Shikoku 88, operated by the New Start Secretariat, organizes an experiential tour called the "Hikikomori Henro."
This pilgrimage experience tour is for troubled young people seeking a new direction in life.
By traveling with others who share similar concerns and aspirations, they embark on a two-month pilgrimage to reflect on their lives and aim for self-reliance.
Ohenro Information
Ohenro House Shikoku 88
Recruitment for Participants
Ohenro House Shikoku 88 is seeking individuals to join a network that supports pilgrims traveling to the 88 temples of Shikoku. We are looking for the following participants to help preserve and continue the Ohenro culture
New House Participation
We are recruiting individuals with vacant homes or accommodations to operate as a new Ohenro House.
Assistance with Operations
We welcome individuals who are willing to help with project operations.There are many ways to get involved, including accommodation management, operations, and promotion.
Support through Donations
We are also seeking donations from those who resonate with the efforts to preserve Ohenro culture. Donations will be used to maintain and operate the facilities.
If you are interested, please contact us. We will send you more detailed information and guide you through the participation process. Let's protect and spread the tradition of Ohenro together.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. Are there amenities at the Ohenro Houses?
A.
Some houses do not provide amenities or towels.
Each house varies, so please check the details of each house on the reservation site.
Q. Can I stay without a reservation?
A.
All Ohenro Houses require reservations.
Online reservation period is from 30 days before the desired stay date to 1 PM on the day of arrival (some exceptions apply). Please make sure to book in advance.
Q. Can I receive an explanation about joining a new house if I’m not sure yet?
A.
Of course,
We would appreciate it if you could consider the details and materials after reviewing the explanation.
Contact Us
We are available for any questions or inquiries via the contact form below.
Please feel free to reach out.