Shikoku Pilgrimage Cycling Tour
One-day self-exploration tour accompanied by a tour guide to purify your mind on the pilgrimage course. (Kochi City)
2-10 ￥25,000 /participant
1 ￥50,000 /participant
About
Experience one of Japan’s famous pilgrimages, the “Henro,” with ease on this guided day cycling tour. We’ll visit three temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage located in Kochi City: Sekkei-ji, Chikurin-ji, and Zenraku-ji, all accessible by E-BIKE (electric-bike).
- The pilgrimage known as “Henro” refers to the act of visiting 88 Buddhist temples in the Shikoku region of Japan. These temples are associated with the monk Kobo Daishi, also known as Kukai, who is revered as a saint in Japanese Buddhism and have practiced and trained in these areas.
Along the way, you’ll encounter rivers, seas, and satoyama, offering diverse views of Kochi’s unique scenery.
The starting point is conveniently located in the heart of Kochi City for easy access.
Your guide will be a local cycling expert. They’ll take you to hidden gems not found in tourist guides, ensuring a unique and special experience.
Highlights
- Three temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage.
- Eco-friendly travel with easy and comfortable E-BIKEs.
- Views of Kochi’s rivers, seas, and satoyama.
- Hidden spots not found in tourist guides.
- Departure from the heart of Kochi City! Excellent accessibility.
Tour Details
Included
- E-BIKE rental
- Cycling guide
- Bicycle helmet rental
- Lunch
- Travel insurance
Clothing and What to Bring
- Comfortable walking shoes and clothes
- Thick gloves and warm clothing for winter
- Clothing made of synthetic fibers is recommended.
Meeting ＆ End Point
Tosa no Kigokoro (土佐のきごころ)
- Address
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- アクセス
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A minute walk from Kita Harimayabashi Bus Stop (Tosaden Traffic)
8 minutes walk from JR Kochi Station
Schedule Example
Tosa no Kigokoro (Assembly/Reception)
Reception available.
Upon arrival at the gathering place “Tosa no Kigokoro,” please approach the staff inside the café.
E-BIKE Instructions
We will provide a briefing on how to ride and important precautions regarding E-BIKEs. Even if you are new to E-BIKEs, rest assured that anyone can ride them with ease.
Tour Start!
Sekkei-ji Temple
(The 33rd temple of the Shikoku Sacred Site)
It is one of only two temples within the sacred grounds that belong to the Rinzai sect. A temple with a ghost legend, which is rare among Shikoku sacred sites.
Nagahama – Tanosaki Prefectural Ferry
Take a ferry to cut across Urado Bay. The ferry ride is about 5 minutes. Enjoy the views of Kochi’s waterfront townscape and Urado Bridge.
Mt. Godai
The pilgrimage route includes mountain paths as well. Climbing Mt. Godai involves a long uphill slope, but thanks to the E-BIKE, progress is effortless. From the viewpoint halfway up, you can enjoy panoramic views of the Kochi cityscape and Kagami River, which has been selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Famous Water.
Chikurin-ji Temple
(The 31st temple of the Shikoku Sacred Site)
At the command of Emperor Shomu, Gyoki searched all over Japan and built this temple in a place similar to Mt. Wutai in the Tang Dynasty. The only temple of learning among the 88 sacred sites in Shikoku whose principal image is Manjusri Bodhisattva.
Lunch
Our guide will recommend restaurants based on your preferences.
Zenraku-ji Temple
(The 30th temple of the Shikoku Sacred Site)
The statue of Daishi here is known as the “Taikyo Daishi,” and it is said that if you visit the statue during bad years or pray for traffic safety, you will be blessed with miraculous powers.
Tosa no Kigokoro (Disbanding)
Special Notes
- We will send a message upon reservation confirmation.
- Anyone who can ride a bicycle is welcome to participate. However, the following individuals should refrain from joining:
- Pregnant women
- Those with health concerns
- A driver’s license is not required.
- In the event of light rain, the tour will proceed as scheduled. If the tour is difficult to conduct due to severe weather conditions, we will contact you by phone or email to inform you of the cancellation.
Schedule Changes and Cancellations
If you would like to change the menu or date/time of your reservation, please contact us by email.
A cancellation fee will be charged depending on the timing of the email sent with the change request.
If we do not reply to you by e-mail confirming the acceptance of the change, it means that your request for change was not accepted. Please note that cancellation fees may apply in some cases.
In the event of cancellation, the following cancellation fees will apply.
100% of the tour price will be charged as a cancellation fee for cancellations made after 6:00 PM three days prior to the tour date.
FAQ
Is there parking available at the meeting place “Tosa no Kigokoro”?
No.
We do not have dedicated parking.
Please use nearby coin-operated parking.
(Parking fees are your responsibility.)
Can the tour schedule be changed?
Yes.
Please send an email to “info-kochinavi@kigokoro.cafe” no later than noon the day before. Please note that we may not be able to accept changes depending on the nature of the request.
Can the tour itinerary be changed?
Yes.
We will do our best to accommodate your preferences and physical abilities within the limits of what is possible. Please feel free to discuss with us.
Can alcohol be consumed during the tour?
No.
Drinking alcohol while cycling is subject to penalties.
After the tour, can I continue to rent an E-BIKE?
Yes.
- 1 hour: ¥1,800～
- 1 day (7 hours): ¥4,700～
Feel free to inquire for further details.
Is it necessary to tip the guide?
No.
There is no custom or obligation to tip in Japan, but if you would like to show your appreciation, it is welcome.
2-10 ￥25,000 /participant
1 ￥50,000 /participant