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.
Meeting Time
7:30 a.m., 8:00 a.m. or 8:30 a.m.
Meeting Place
Harimaya Bridge (Harimayabashi)
Details of Tour / Activity
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. 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.
Details
Availability
All year around except 15th July to 31st August
Required time
Approximately 4.5 hours
Price
-2 participants: 26,000 JPY per person
-3-6 participants: 18,000 JPY per person
Included
- English speaking guide
- Transportation during the tour as mentioned in the tour details
- Admission fees for the Chikurin-ji Temple Garden and Treasure Hall, and the Makino Botanical Garden
Min./Max. participants
Min. 2 people
Max. 6 people
Important information
- Part of the tour involves walking on mountain trails. Please wear clothing that covers your skin, such as long sleeves and long pants, and comfortable walking shoes. Sandals are not permitted. We also recommend bringing a hat, gloves, and rain gear as needed. A rain jacket is recommended.
- The tour will be canceled in the event of heavy rain, strong winds, or other severe weather conditions. The decision will be made the day before the tour. The tour will proceed in light rain.
- For pick-up and drop-off at Kochi New Port, an additional fee of JPY 2,000 per person will apply.
Cancellation Policy
-Up to 7 days before the the start of the trip: 20%
-6 days to 1 day before the start of the trip: 50%
-On the day the trip starts, after the start of the trip, or no-show/no-contact: 100%