Morning Walk: Pilgrimage & Botanical Garden

The Shikoku Pilgrimage is one of Japan’s most iconic pilgrimage routes, with a history spanning 1,200 years. One of its greatest attractions is the “walking pilgrimage,” which allows you to follow the ancient trails on foot while enjoying encounters with nature and the local people along the way. On this tour, you’ll walk along the pilgrimage trail on Mount Godai, overlooking Kochi City, and make your way to Chikurin-ji Temple, the 31st temple on the pilgrimage route. It’s a wonderful way to experience the historic trail at a leisurely pace as part of a morning walk. After visiting the temple, we’ll take a relaxed stroll through the nearby Makino Botanical Garden, also located on Mount Godai.

1. 1

   Chikurinji Temple

   2.5 hours

   The tour begins at 8:30 a.m. at Harimaya Bridge, where we will meet and take a streetcar to Monju-dori Station. From there, we will walk approximately 2 km along the pilgrimage trail to Chikurin-ji Temple, the 31st temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, arriving around 10:30 a.m. We will then spend an hour visiting the temple and exploring its beautiful garden and treasure museum.

2. 2

   The Kochi Prefectural Makino Botanical Garden

   1 hour

   Afterward, we will take a leisurely stroll through the Makino Botanical Garden from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. At the end of the tour, a taxi will take us back to Harimaya Bridge, where the tour will conclude at approximately 1:00 p.m. Surrounded by birdsong and the fresh scent of the forest, you’ll immerse yourself in the natural beauty unique to the pilgrimage trail. You’ll also visit the historic Chikurinji Temple, where you can admire its beautiful garden and Buddhist statues. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll through the Makino Botanical Garden, which has a special connection to Chikurinji Temple, and discover the rich diversity of Kochi’s plant life.

• Public transportation options are available nearby
• Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
• Not recommended for pregnant travelers
• Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
• Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness
• Availability: All year around except 15th July to 31st August

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.