Guided Highlights of Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail Hiking and Walking Tour

Accommodation

This tour features a mix of traditional Japanese lodgings and modern hotels:

Shukubō (Temple Stay): On Day 2, we stay in a Buddhist temple lodging, offering an authentic experience of monastic life. Rooms are simple and small, similar to traditional ryokan, with tatami mats and futon bedding. The vegetarian Buddhist cuisine (shojin-ryori) is served, and you'll have the opportunity to join the evening religious service. (Based on the priest’s availability).

On Ryokans

We stay in traditional Japanese inns called Ryokans with tatami rooms, futon bedding, and access to onsen hot spring baths. These accommodations offer an immersive cultural experience and typically include kaiseki-style dinners.

Important Note

Many traditional Japanese accommodations have communal bathing facilities rather than private en suite bathrooms. This is a cherished part of Japanese culture and adds to the authentic experience.

In Tokushima and Takamatsu, we stay in comfortable Western-style hotels with modern amenities.

Choosing Between Twin and Double Rooms in Japan

Hotel room terminology in Japan can be different from what many international travelers are used to.

A Twin Room typically features two separate beds and generally offers more usable floor space, making it the most comfortable choice for most travelers.

A Double Room usually contains a single bed that may be narrower than the queen or king beds commonly found in Western hotels. In some cases, the room may be quite compact, with limited space for luggage and movement.

Japan also has a unique room category known as a Semi-Double Room, which features a bed approximately 120 cm wide. While designed primarily for single occupancy, some hotels may offer it for two guests. These rooms can feel considerably smaller than standard double rooms in Europe, North America, or Australia.

Because room categories and bed sizes vary between hotels, we strongly recommend selecting a Twin Room whenever available, even for couples. Twin rooms generally provide:

• More personal space and greater overall comfort
• Easier luggage storage in compact Japanese hotel rooms
• Separate bedding, which many travelers find more comfortable
• A lower risk of receiving a smaller bed than expected

Please note that room changes after arrival are often difficult to arrange, particularly during busy travel periods when hotels operate at high occupancy levels.

Arrival

Your tour begins in Tokushima. The nearest airport is Tokushima Awaodori Airport (TKS). After landing, taxis are readily available outside the arrivals terminal. The airport is compact and easy to navigate, making transfers straightforward. A taxi ride to central Tokushima or your tour hotel usually takes around 20 to 30 minutes, depending on traffic.

Fares are typically reasonable for short city transfers. If arriving via Osaka or Tokyo, domestic connections into Tokushima are frequent and reliable. It is best to keep your hotel address handy in Japanese for a smooth ride.

Departure

Your tour ends in Takamatsu, served by Takamatsu Airport (TAK). We recommend booking a taxi from your hotel to the airport, which takes about 30 minutes. Hotel staff are usually happy to assist with arranging a taxi. Takamatsu Airport offers convenient domestic connections to major hubs like Tokyo and Osaka, making onward travel simple after the tour concludes.

The best weather for cycling and walking on this Shikoku tour is spring and autumn, when temperatures are mild, skies are clearer, and humidity is low. March to May brings fresh greenery and daytime temperatures around 12–22°C (54–72°F), ideal for long climbs and temple walks. September to November offers crisp air and stable conditions, with temperatures around 15–25°C (59–77°F).

Summer can be hot and humid, often 28–35°C (82–95°F), while winter is cooler and quieter, especially in the mountains, with temperatures dropping to 2–10°C (36–50°F).

Packing wisely ensures comfort and safety on your hiking adventure. This list covers essential hiking gear, clothing, and travel items to help you handle varied terrain and weather conditions.

Recommended Hiking Clothes & Gear

• Lightweight hiking shoes or boots with good traction.
• Moisture-wicking base layers and breathable hiking shirts.
• Quick-dry hiking pants or shorts.
• Light fleece or down jacket for cooler temperatures.
• Waterproof and windproof shell jacket.
• Sun hat and sunglasses with UV protection.
• Hiking poles if you prefer extra support on uneven terrain.
• Small daypack with hydration system or water bottles.
• Headlamp or small flashlight.
• Light gloves and a beanie for early mornings or higher altitudes.

Clothing

• Layered clothing for temperature changes throughout the day.
• Full-sleeved tops for sun and insect protection.
• Comfortable evening wear for lodges or inns.
• Compact rain jacket for unpredictable weather.
• Extra socks, preferably synthetic or wool.

Other Necessities

• Basic first-aid kit with personal medication.
• Sunscreen, lip balm, and insect repellent.
• Reusable water bottle or hydration bladder.
• Snacks like trail mix, nuts, or energy bars.
• Plug adaptor and power bank for charging devices.

Pro Tips

• Pack light. You'll appreciate it on the trail.
• Break in your shoes before the trip to avoid blisters.
• Keep rain gear easy to access in your daypack.

Luggage

Please limit your luggage to one medium-sized suitcase and one daypack. Mark your luggage clearly with your name, address, and phone number.

Before venturing on your adventure, make sure you're equipped with essential travel advice, including security updates, local laws, and crucial passport and visa information. Start by visiting the official government website of your home country for accurate and reliable guidance:

• UK Residents: Foreign, Commonwealth & Development Office Travel Advice.
• US Residents: US Department of State Travel Advice.
• Australian Residents: Smartraveller.
• Canadian Residents: Government of Canada Travel Advice and Advisories.
• New Zealand Residents: SafeTravel.
• Residents of Other Countries: Check with your government or local consulate for tailored travel advice and requirements.

Note: Passport and visa regulations can change at any time. Check for updates close to departure to avoid last-minute issues.

Medical insurance that covers medical costs in case of an accident during the trip is mandatory to participate in our tours.

We recommend purchasing adequate travel insurance to protect yourself from unforeseen events. Our experience shows that guests who purchase travel insurance, including coverage for all activities on the itinerary, trip cancellation, interruption, delay, baggage damage, loss or theft, personal accident, death and repatriation costs, medical and emergency expenses, and personal liability, travel with greater peace of mind.

Is proof of medical insurance required?

Yes. You must provide your insurer's name, policy number, and emergency contact through our reservation form. If you cannot provide proof, you'll need to purchase insurance before traveling with us.

Can I use my credit card insurance?

Yes, as long as it meets our requirements and provides adequate coverage. Keep your emergency contact number and policy number accessible while traveling.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Purchase travel insurance as soon as you've paid in full or booked your flights.

Does Art of Bicycle Trips sell travel insurance?

We do not sell travel insurance directly. We recommend comparing policies and choosing the one that best fits your needs. A useful place to start is Insured Nomads.