【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1 and 2

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1, 2, and 3

Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first three temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji, Temple 2, Gokurakuji, and Temple 3, Konsenji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆“Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 40,000 Yen Group of 2: 20,000 Yen Group of 3: 13,000 Yen Group of 4: 10,000 Yen Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 6.5 km Time Needed: Approx. 5 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

【Kamikatsu】Explore Mt. Irodori & Irodori Leaf Picking + Dinner

～To Those Considering a Trip to Kamikatsu ～ Kamikatsu is a small town with a population of less than 1,500. In 2003, it became the first municipality in Japan to make a "Zero Waste Declaration", aiming to become a garbage-free town. For responsible travelers who want to experience Kamikatsu as it really is and learn and enjoy through travel, we offer a variety of programs. ～Story～ Colorful leaves used for decorating food are one of the specialties of Kamikatsu, and are a part of the culture born from the Japanese sense of beauty. Kamikatsu leaves are sold under the "Irodori" brand, and their value is recognized by traditional restaurants throughout Japan. Seasonal leaves, flowers, and wild vegetables are harvested, shipped, and sold. This business model, which allows elderly people to work lively while using computers, is attracting attention from all over Japan. This is an opportunity to learn about the unique industry of Kamikatsu and to enjoy the five senses by coloring your meal with a sense of art. Fitness Level ★☆☆☆☆ Skill Level ★☆☆☆☆ ～Customer Feedback～・A very delicious and beautiful dinner. There were many kinds of dishes, and the serving sizes were perfect! ～Price～ 7,000 Yen per Person Price includes a 500 yen investment in Kamikatsu. *This activity is only available to guests staying at the Tsukigatani Onsen (overnight stay with dinner included). *Applications accepted starting from 2 people. ～About Kamikatsu～ 1. Meals ・The number of eateries is limited, so advance booking is necessary. ・There are no convenience stores or supermarkets in the town. 2. Transportation ・If you apply only for the experience, you will have to arrange transportation to the site by yourself. ・From Tokushima Station: Approx.1 hour by car, 1.5 hours by bus ・As the number of buses operating is limited, other transportation options such as volunteer taxis are recommended. (Requires registration and booking in advance.) 3. Responsibilities as Travelers ・When visiting Kamikatsu, please double check your travel gear and, as a zero waste traveler, take the actions required to not leave garbage behind. ・Prepare to bring reusable water bottles, chopsticks, etc. ・When having meals, consider the amount you will eat as to minimize leftover food as much as possible.

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Cranes and Dragons – Hike to Temple 20 and 21 (9 hours)

Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first two temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 20, Kakurinji and Temple 21, Tairyūji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 20, Kakurinji ◆Temple 21, Tairyūji Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 90,000 Yen Group of 2: 45,000 Yen Group of 3: 30,000 Yen Group of 4: 22,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us. Max: 7 people) Age: 15 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 10 km Time Needed: Approx. 9 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Visit Three Temples, One Shrine, and the Naruto German House (8 Hours)

Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first three temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji, Temple 2, Gokurakuji, and Temple 3, Konsenji; one of the largest Shinto shrines in Tokushima; and the Naruto German House, a "museum" about the German POWs. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji ◆Oasa Hiko Jinja Shrine ◆Naruto German House Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆“Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 50,000 Yen Group of 2: 25,000 Yen Group of 3: 16,500 Yen Group of 4: 12,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 9 km Time Needed: Approx. 8 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

Tokushima Central Park Tour (3~3.5 hours)

Explore the Tokushima Central Park and Castle Museum! Places to Visit: ◆Tokushima Central Park ◆Tokushima Castle Museum and Gardens Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 20,000 Yen Group of 2: 10,000 Yen Group of 3: 7,000 Yen Group of 4: 5,000 Yen Age: 10 & Older Time Needed: Approx. 3 ~ 3.5 Hours ＊The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc. ＊The tour time can be changed according to your schedule. ＊This tour is not available on Mondays when the castle museum and gardens are closed.

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】The Hair of Two Women Enshrined at Two Temples (7 hours)

Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of two of the temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 18, Ozanji and Temple 19, Tatsueji, as well as a mini-Shikoku pilgrimage route. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 18, Onzanji ◆Temple 19, Tatsueji ◆Mini-Shikoku pilgrimage route Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 50,000 Yen Group of 2: 25,000 Yen Group of 3: 16,500 Yen Group of 4: 12,500 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Walking Distance: Approx. 10 km Time Needed: Approx. 7 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Temples 1 to 5

Learn about various historical objects on the temple grounds of the first five temples along the Shikoku pilgrimage route - Temple 1, Ryōzenji; Temple 2, Gokurakuji; Temple 3, Konsenji; Temple 4, Dainichiji; and Temple 5, Jizōji. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 1, Ryōzenji ◆Temple 2, Gokurakuji ◆Temple 3, Konsenji ◆Temple 4, Dainichiji ◆Temple 5, Jizōji Temple 1 Ryōzenji: If you are starting your journey here, perhaps you might be interested in buying some of the accouterments – such as sedge hat, wooden staff, pilgrimage book, white pilgrim coat etc. – that people get to show that are making this journey as a henro (Shikoku pilgrim). Enjoy the atmosphere, feel free to take photographs (except for the innermost part of the main hall where the altar is), look at the various buildings and statues, and perhaps take your pilgrimage book to the temple office to have it signed and stamped. Temple 2 Gokurakuji: As you walk along the path, you will most likely be impressed by the large garden on your left and various statues on your right. After you turn left and walk a little bit further, you will see a huge tree in front of you. It is called “the cedar of long life” (chōmei sugi) and is believed to have been planted by the well-known 8th century Buddhist priest Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi, who founded many of the temples along the Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Next, go up a flight of steep stone stairs to see the main hall and Daishi hall, the latter which has a statue of Kūkai/Kōbō Daishi enshrined inside. In front of the Daishi hall are many amulets and wooden tablets related to the safe birth of a child. In fact, the large statue of Kōbō Daishi was given to the temple by a woman during the Meiji period (1868-1912) when she had a safe childbirth after visiting this temple. Temple 3 Konsenji: Recommended Points: ◆A well beside the Daishi hall, which is said to have been dug by Kōbō Daishi for the benefit of the local people when he visited here in the 9th century. It is said that if you can see your reflection in the water, you will live a long life. ◆ “Benkei`s stone of strength”, which is in the garden in front of the temple office. It is believed that warrior-monk Benkei (1155-1189) lifted this stone during the 12th century when he came here on his way to fight in the Battle of Yashima in present-day Kagawa prefecture. Temple 4 Dainichiji: Over the past few years Dainichiji has been involved an extensive restoration project including rebuilding the main gate and restoring thirty-three wooden statues made in the 18th century that represent each temple along the 33-sacred site pilgrimage route in the Saigoku region. These statues are located in a covered corridor between the main hall and the Daishi hall. Temple 5 Jizōji: It's recommended to go into the “500 Rakan” building up the stairs behind the temple. Inside the U-shaped building, you will see approximately 200 wooden statues of rakan (arhats in English), which are disciples of Buddha. At the end of the building, you will see many small wooden statues representing the main deities of the pilgrimage routes around Shikoku, Bando, Chichibu and Saigoku. Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 60,000 Yen Group of 2: 30,000 Yen Group of 3: 20,000 Yen Group of 4: 15,000 Yen Age: 14 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 12 km Time Needed: Approx. 9 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

Special Shikoku Pilgrimage and Indigo Dyeing Tour

This two-day tour contains a myriad of unique experiences, such as visiting a portion of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage, staying at a temple and experiencing religious services, learning about Tokushima's indigo industry, and seeing Tokushima's famous Awa Odori dance. ◎On Day 1 you will walk a portion of the Shikoku Pilgrimage by foot. Together with a knowledgeable guide, you will walk from Temple No.1 Ryozenji to Temple No.4. Dainichiji. That evening you will stay at Temple No.6 Anrakuji, where there is a hot spring, and take part in the evening service. You will also have the rare opportunity to view beautiful Buddhist statues and paintings located in the small pagoda on the temple grounds. ◎On Day 2 you will experience indigo dyeing at an old merchant's house and enjoy a private performance of Tokushima's famous dance, Awa Odori, by one of Tokushima's most famous dance groups. 【Details】 Price Per Person: For 1 Participant: ￥225,000～ For 2 Participants: ￥200,000～ For 3 to 4 Participants: ￥125,000～ For 5 to 9 Participants: ￥100,000～ For 10 Participants or More: ￥75,000～・Meals: Breakfast (1), Lunch (2), Dinner (1) ・English Interpreter/Guide ・Pilgrimage Attire (Stole, Sedge Hat, White Cotton Jacket with Sleeves) ・A support bus (small or medium sized bus) is provided during the walking pilgrimage. It is possible to change to a jumbo taxi or sedan taxi. ・In case of a large number of guests, the night service experience at Anrakuji Temple cannot be held privately. ・Rooms at Anrakuji are typically Western-style rooms with a bath and toilet. Japanese-style rooms (bathroom and toilet outside of the room) are optional. ・The price does not include the overnight stay before the event. We can make arrangements for you upon request. Please feel free to contact us for details. 【Contact】 Air Travel Tokushima Inc. Tel:088-600-8560 E-mail:aitripper@air-travel.jp

【Shikoku Pilgrimage Guided Tours】Spiritual Checkpoint Temple Tour (6 hours)

Learn about the tales, blessings, and history of Shikoku pilgrimage temple 19, Tatsueji; and walk a mini Shikoku pilgrimage. Places to Visit: ◆Temple 19, Tatsueji ◆Place where a woman called Okyo lived in the 1800s ◆Mini 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage route Price (Per Person) Group of 1: 40,000 Yen Group of 2: 20,000 Yen Group of 3: 13,000 Yen Group of 4: 10,000 Yen (For more than four people, please contact us) Age: 10 & Older Walking Distance: Approx. 8 km Time Needed: Approx. 6 Hours *The schedule is only an estimate and may change depending on the day, weather, etc.

Deeper into the Valley! Explore the Mysterious Oku Iya Valley!【Guided Tour】

Visit the representative sightseeing spots of the Oku Iya Valley via taxi together with a guide! 【Tsuzuki Shoten: Iya Soba Making + Lunch】 Since long ago it has been difficult to grow rice in the Iya area, so soba (buckwheat) was grown in its place. As such, "Iya Soba" has become a staple food of the area. At Tsuzuki Shoten, a local, elderly woman will teach you how to properly make Iya Soba. Afterwards, you can enjoy the soba you made by hand along with a lunch comprised of mountain vegetables. 【Oku Iya Double Kazurabashi Vine Bridges】 Often called an unexplored area of Japan, two vine bridges, the male bridge and female bridge, remain here. There are large spaces in-between the bridge steps, so you can completely see the river below you. It's sure to be a thrilling experience! 【Nagoro - The Scarecrow Village】 The village of Nagoro, often called The Scarecrow Village, has more scarecrow residents than human ones! The scarecrows can be seen throughout the village, doing farm work, talking amongst themselves, studying at the school, etc. They are made by one woman who bases them off of people who used to live in the village. As she continued to make more and more scarecrows, the village eventually became quite well-known! 【Ochiai Village Viewing Platform】 This village is settled on the steep slopes of the mountain, and the viewing platform offers a beautiful, sweeping view. It evokes a strong images of Japan's mountainous villages. 【Price per Person】 For Groups of 2 - 3: 29,000 Yen For Groups of 1: 48,000 Yen 【Minimum Number of Participants】 1 【Maximum Number of Participants】 3 【Required Time】 Approx. 6 Hours 35 Min. 【Meeting Place】 Oboke Station (For those coming from Tokushima Station, there is a train that departs at 9:00 AM (Arrives at 10:37 AM).)

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