Shikoku's 88-temple Buddhist pilgrimage encircles the smallest of Japan's main islands, with the Iya Valley's vine bridges, Naoshima's contemporary art islands, and the Awa Odori dance filling Tokushima for four nights of August.
Highlights
Matsuyama
Iya Valley
Kochi
Dogo Onsen
Ohenro Pilgrimage Trail
When to Visit
Aug
Awa Odori dance festival August 12-15 fills Tokushima with thousands of traditional dancers parading down city streets, the country's biggest dance festival.
Mar-May
Pilgrimage season opens with cherry blossoms across Matsuyama Castle, Naoshima art islands at peak photographic conditions, and Shikoku's mountainous interior in spring.
Sep-Nov
Autumn brings Iya Valley vine-bridge trails through changing leaves, Setouchi Triennale years (2022, 2025) bring contemporary art across the inland sea islands.
Dec-Feb
Cool winter with the pilgrimage continuing in cooler temperatures, Dogo Onsen open year-round (Japan's oldest hot spring), and Matsuyama Castle accessible without crowds.
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