Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour

Naruto , Japan

Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour

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For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Manual confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

This is a course to experience the Shikoku Pilgrimage by pottering around.

This tour is recommended for those who are interested in the pilgrimage but think it might be a bit difficult to visit 88 pilgrimage sites on foot.
We will meet at Tokushima Station and take a JR train to Ikeya Station by bicycle. From the station, we will ride through the countryside with Naruto's lotus root fields and other fields toward Reizanji Temple, the first temple of the Shikoku Sacred Sites. After passing through the shopping street at Bando Station, the pilgrimage route begins with the gate of Reizanji Temple in front of you, and the atmosphere of the pilgrimage is enhanced as you gather your sutra books and costumes at the No. 1 temple.
From Reizanji Temple, the pilgrims will take a relatively gentle route in order from Gokurakuji Temple (No. 2) to Kinsenji Temple (No. 3) to Dainichiji Temple (No. 4) to Jizoji Temple (No. 5) to Anrakuji Temple (No. 6), visiting the temples slowly along a walking pilgrimage route with few cars passing by. On the walking course, you can find points with remnants of the Edo period that cannot be discovered if you drive, with the navigator's commentary.

In addition to the pilgrimage route, the tour can be combined with other attractive places, such as the venerable Omabiko Shrine and the Ninth Village, which has a tradition of exchange with Germany.

We will propose a fashionable and new style of pilgrimage pottering tailored to your needs!
(*Courses can be arranged to suit the participants.)

Available options

Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage BROMPTON Slow Cycling Tour

What's included

helmet

Bicycle rental fee

Tour Insurance

What's not included

Private transportation

Lunch

Pilgrimage Equipment

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Public transportation options are available nearby

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

If coming by JR, the nearest station is Bando Station.

About Naruto

Naruto is a city in Tokushima Prefecture, Japan, famous for its spectacular Naruto Whirlpools and as the gateway to Awaji Island. It offers a blend of natural wonders, historical sites, and unique cultural experiences.

Top Attractions

Naruto Whirlpools

The Naruto Whirlpools are massive tidal whirlpools formed in the Naruto Strait between Naruto and Awaji Island. They are one of Japan's most famous natural wonders and can be viewed from observation decks or via boat tours.

Nature 1-2 hours Moderate (Observation deck: 600 JPY, Boat tour: 1,500-2,500 JPY)

Naruto Park

Naruto Park is a beautiful park with walking trails, historical sites, and scenic views of the Naruto Strait. It includes the Naruto Castle ruins and the Naruto Museum of History and Folklore.

Nature/Historical 1-2 hours Free (Museum entry: 300 JPY)

Naruto Bridge

The Naruto Bridge is a suspension bridge connecting Naruto to Awaji Island. It is one of the longest suspension bridges in the world and offers stunning views of the Naruto Strait and the whirlpools.

Architecture 30 minutes to 1 hour Free (Toll for vehicles: 2,300 JPY)

Awaji Island

Awaji Island, accessible via the Naruto Bridge, is known for its beautiful landscapes, hot springs, and cultural attractions. It is also famous for its puppet theater and fresh seafood.

Nature/Cultural Half day to full day Varies depending on the specific attraction

Must-Try Local Dishes

Naruto Kamameshi

A traditional dish made with rice cooked in a small pot with various ingredients, including seafood and vegetables. It is a local specialty of Naruto.

Lunch/Dinner Contains seafood and sometimes meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Awaji Beef

High-quality beef from Awaji Island, known for its tenderness and flavor. It is often served as sushi, steak, or in hot pot dishes.

Lunch/Dinner Contains beef, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Naruto Maki

A type of sushi roll wrapped in seaweed and filled with various ingredients, such as tamagoyaki (sweet omelet) and cucumber. It is a popular snack in Naruto.

Snack Contains seafood and sometimes meat, not suitable for vegetarians or vegans

Popular Activities

Hiking in Naruto Park Canyoning in Iya Valley Boat tours of the Naruto Whirlpools Visiting hot springs on Awaji Island Enjoying the scenery at Naruto Whirlpools Exploring the beaches on Awaji Island Visiting the Awaji Puppet Theater Exploring historical sites in Tokushima City

Best Time to Visit

April to June, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures and lower humidity, making it ideal for sightseeing and outdoor activities. The autumn foliage in November is particularly stunning.

15-28°C 59-82°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

Japan Standard Time (JST, GMT+9)

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Naruto is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any destination, it is important to take basic precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable trip.

Important Precautions:

• Be cautious of taxi scams and insist on using the meter
• Keep valuables secure and be aware of your surroundings in crowded areas
• Be wary of touts offering tours or services, and only use licensed guides and services

Getting there

By air

Tokushima Airport • 15 km from Naruto

By train

Naruto Station

By bus

Naruto Station Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

The bus system is efficient and affordable, with routes covering all major attractions. Buses are punctual and well-maintained.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Central Naruto Naruto Strait Area Awaji Island

Day trips

Awaji Island

Connected via Naruto Bridge • Half day to full day

Awaji Island offers a mix of natural beauty, hot springs, and cultural attractions. It is a great place to relax, explore, and experience local culture.

Tokushima City

30 km from Naruto • Half day to full day

Tokushima City is the capital of Tokushima Prefecture and offers a mix of historical sites, cultural attractions, and modern amenities. It is a great place to experience the local culture and history.

Iya Valley

100 km from Naruto • Full day to overnight

Iya Valley is a remote and scenic area known for its stunning landscapes, traditional villages, and outdoor activities. It is a great place for nature lovers and adventure seekers.

Festivals

Awa Odori • August 12-15 Naruto Whirlpool Festival • Late September to early October Awaji Island Fireworks Festival • Early August

Pro tips

Visit the Naruto Whirlpools during high tide for the best experience
Try local specialties like Naruto Kamameshi and Awaji Beef
Explore the surrounding area, including Awaji Island and Iya Valley
Learn a few basic Japanese phrases to enhance your experience and interact with locals
Use an IC card (like ICOCA) for convenient and discounted public transportation