The Mindful Wayfarer

Modern Japan blends the ancient with the contemporary, the east with the west. On this exclusive journey, you will immerse yourself in this captivating fusion. Your day begins at one of the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage sites, Kokubunji, where a resident monk guides you through a serene meditation session to uncover the secrets of the sanctuary. Afterward, find peace in an exquisite garden while savoring traditional matcha. Next, stroll through historic local neighborhoods and verdant rice fields to reach the Wayfarer Brewing Company. Here, the Australian-Japanese owners serve distinct single-batch beers in local clay cups, paired with a curated light lunch.

1. 1

   Stop 1

   1.5 hours

   This immersive journey begins at Tosa Kokubunji, a historic stop on the famous Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Alongside a resident monk, you will step inside the temple’s sacred interior to uncover its unique spiritual heritage. The temple grounds hold centuries of history, which you will explore firsthand as the monk guides you from the main hall into a climate-controlled exhibit pavilion housing thousand-year-old artifacts. With the weight of this history still fresh in your mind, it is time for introspection. Sit quietly in the main hall as a robed monk leads you through the temple's unique meditation ritual. Afterward, refresh your mind and heart with premium matcha at the temple's café, situated right next to a manicured traditional garden.

2. 2

   Stop 2

   15 min

   Now, let’s explore on foot! Your guide will lead you out the back gates and through the vibrant green rice fields that frame the temple grounds. Entering a quiet local neighborhood, you will catch an authentic glimpse of daily life before stopping at a hidden pottery studio. Peer through the window to watch the artisan carefully shape clay into elegant cups and bowls—if you want, you can buy a unique piece to remember Kochi by.

3. 3

   Stop 3

   1.3 hours

   Continuing through the village lanes, your walk leads to the Wayfarer Brewing Company. Here, you will meet the Australian-Japanese owners who have rooted their family deeply into this community. Their beer is brewed entirely on-site, incorporating fresh hops cultivated in the distant mountains on the horizon. Settle in to sample a flight of three distinct beers chosen from five limited-run varieties. Because these batches are brewed only once, the flavors you enjoy today will disappear forever once the final keg is tapped. For a truly unique sensory experience, try pouring a single variety into three different vessels: a clay cup made in the studio you just visited, a copper tumbler, and a classic glass. You will be amazed by how the material transforms the taste! Pair your drinks with a light meal crafted from local Kochi ingredients. Refreshed in body and soul, make your way back to Kochi City.

• 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
• Suitable for all physical fitness levels
• Availability: All year around

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