I planned to start hiking at 8 a.m., but by the time I reached Konzoji it was already 9:15. After visiting the first few temples—Konzoji, Zentsuji, and Koyama—the real challenge began: a steep mountain trail crossing five peaks. The narrow, sandy paths tested my footing, and some sections had me crawling on all fours with chains to hold onto.

Reaching Mt. Gahaishi (481m) was a huge relief, but the descent remained tough. Along the way, I visited Shusshakaji, perched right on a cliff, where an older hiker generously shared chocolate and stories from over 50 years on this trail—an inspiring moment.

The final temples, Mandara and Iyadaniji, pushed my endurance even further, with Iyadaniji’s 500+ steps warning me of the difficulty. Surprisingly, I made it to the top without too much trouble and completed the hike at the train station, exhausted but elated. Today was far harder than I expected, but finishing it made it unforgettable.

I felt much better today thanks to the cooler weather. I took a train from Takamatsu to Kinashi Station, briefly panicking over whether IC cards would work—luckily, they did.

The route wound up a leafy mountain road, switching between trail and paved paths, leading first to Negoroji Temple, a quiet spot where I paid my respects. Halfway to Shiromine Temple, I discovered drinks left by a father in memory of his daughter—a touching gesture that kept me refreshed.

The final stretch to Tennoji Temple was tricky, with unclear signs, overgrown paths, and loose rocks, but I made it safely. With the next train approaching, I didn’t linger long, ending the day with a sense of accomplishment after a challenging but meaningful pilgrimage hike.

While in Shikoku, I decided to walk a section of the Shikoku 88 Temple Pilgrimage. Though the full route spans 1,200 km, I focused on a small stretch around Mt. Yashima (293m), where Yashima Temple sits. The climb was steeper and sandier than expected, with a few tricky spots where the trail nearly led me the wrong way.

At the top, I met another pilgrim who was surprised to see a foreigner on the route in winter and kindly offered me a bottle of green tea. I spent some time at the temple before heading toward Yakuri Station, ultimately taking the train back to Takamatsu and walking to my accommodation. A short section, but a rewarding taste of the pilgrimage.

From Mitazono Station, I walked through endless winter farmland to the Michinoku Trail Center, collecting my official passport. The staff’s warmth balanced the long, monotonous path, while snow and wind made the final stretch to Rikuzen-Takasago Station a test of mental toughness on the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

This section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail takes you from Hoso-Ura Station to Otomo Station, with stunning views of the Goishi Coast’s turquoise waters and dramatic rock formations. A mix of mountain paths, quiet villages, and sea breezes made it one of my favorite hiking days.

On New Year’s Day, I walked from Kesennuma Station across the windy Oshima Bridge, seeing both the city’s tsunami recovery and its changing character. Strong gusts and limited holiday buses cut my hike short, but reaching Oshima Island made for a powerful start to the year.

Continuing from Ichinowatari, this hike followed memorials, rugged coastlines, and scenic blowholes before reaching Jodogahama Beach. With crystal-clear water and dramatic rock formations, it was the perfect way to close the year on the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Navigating confusing signs, detours, and even scrambling up a cliff face, this section from Shintaro Station tested both patience and endurance. Passing tsunami ruins and rugged fishing ports, I ended the day short at Ichinowatari Station—humbled by how tricky the Michinoku Coastal Trail can be.

From Kurosakiso to Tanohata Station, this hike was packed with steep climbs, snowy cliffs, and the jaw-dropping views of Kitayamazaki Cape. Sketchy ladders, hand-dug caves, and encounters with the elusive Japanese serow made it exhausting—but one of the most rewarding days on the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Beginning at Horinai Station, this scenic hike passed fishing ports, tsunami sites, and hand-dug tunnels before climbing to the Kurosaki Lighthouse. Arriving early at Kurosakiso, I rewarded myself with an ocean-view onsen—an unforgettable finish to this stretch of the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Battling -15°C windchill, icy trails, and snow, this hike from Kuji Station to Itsukushima Shrine proved too dangerous to finish. With detours and strong headwinds, I turned back early, exhausted but safe—sometimes the trail reminds you when to call it a day.

Starting from the shark-themed Same Station, this winter hike to Okuki followed snowy coastal trails with icy sections and sparse facilities. Despite the challenges, the dramatic ocean scenery and frozen landscapes made for a memorable section of the Michinoku Coastal Trail.

Hike the scenic Nakasendo Trail from Magome to Nagiso, passing charming post towns, bamboo groves, and panoramic castle views.

Hike part of the Shikoku 88 Temples Trail from Cape Uno to Cape Ashizuri, exploring sacred sites and stunning coastal views.

Complete the Nakahechi pilgrimage with a bus ride to Shingu, visit Hayatama Taisha, witness local tuna markets, and collect your final stamp.

Challenge yourself on the toughest Nakahechi day from Koguchi to Nachi Taisha, navigating steep ascents, mossy paths, and sacred shrines.

Hike from Ukegawa to Koguchi along well-maintained Nakahechi paths, climb scenic peaks, and enjoy a private ryokan stay.

Take a rest day exploring Yunomine Onsen and hiking shorter Nakahechi trails (Dainichi-goe & Akagi-goe), soaking in hot springs along the way.

Embark on the longest Nakahechi day from Chikatsuyu to Hongu Taisha, passing scenic fall-colored forests and receiving the Dual Pilgrim Certificate.

Begin your Kumano Kodo Nakahechi pilgrimage from Takijiri-oji to Chikatsuyu-oji, navigating steep climbs, serene forests, and quiet paths.