{"id":543,"date":"2026-04-20T09:00:00","date_gmt":"2026-04-20T13:00:00","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/?p=543"},"modified":"2026-04-23T23:18:28","modified_gmt":"2026-04-24T03:18:28","slug":"ohenro-beginner","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/","title":{"rendered":"[Beginner&#8217;s Guide] How to Start Shikoku Ohenro: Steps, Etiquette, and What to Prepare"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><!-- Intro --><\/p>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-right\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Curious Visitor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-left\">I&#8217;m interested in the Shikoku pilgrimage (Ohenro), but I&#8217;m a complete beginner. I have no idea where to even start \u2014 how do I actually begin, what&#8217;s the proper etiquette, and what do I need to prepare? I just feel overwhelmed.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you feel that way, you are far from alone.<\/p>\n<p>The Shikoku Ohenro is a 1,200-year-old pilgrimage that visits 88 sacred temples. But it is <span class=\"huto\">much more open and flexible than most people imagine<\/span>, and anyone can begin. This article organizes the key points a first-time pilgrim truly needs, step by step.<\/p>\n<p>This article will walk you through the following:<\/p>\n<div class=\"ep-box--border\">\n<ul>\n<li>The basics of Ohenro and what every beginner should know first<\/li>\n<li>A clear <span class=\"huto\">3-step way to start<\/span> without getting lost<\/li>\n<li>The flow of temple etiquette (greeting, name slips, temple seal)<\/li>\n<li>The <span class=\"huto\">minimum outfit, gear, and budget<\/span> for your first pilgrimage<\/li>\n<li>The difference between forward, reverse, full, and segmented pilgrimage<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-left\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Hajime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-right\">I&#8217;m the writer of this article, and I have personally completed the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage by motorcycle. I&#8217;ve met walking pilgrims, driving pilgrims, and many first-timers along the way. I&#8217;ll share <span class=\"huto\">the pitfalls beginners typically run into<\/span>, in the simplest way possible!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-1 --><\/p>\n<div id=\"ez-toc-container\" class=\"ez-toc-v2_0_74 counter-hierarchy ez-toc-counter ez-toc-grey ez-toc-container-direction\">\n<div class=\"ez-toc-title-container\">\n<p class=\"ez-toc-title\" style=\"cursor:inherit\">TAP TO JUMP TO A SECTION<\/p>\n<span class=\"ez-toc-title-toggle\"><a href=\"#\" class=\"ez-toc-pull-right ez-toc-btn ez-toc-btn-xs ez-toc-btn-default ez-toc-toggle\" aria-label=\"Toggle Table of Content\"><span class=\"ez-toc-js-icon-con\"><span class=\"\"><span class=\"eztoc-hide\" style=\"display:none;\">Toggle<\/span><span class=\"ez-toc-icon-toggle-span\"><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" class=\"list-377408\" width=\"20px\" height=\"20px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" fill=\"none\"><path d=\"M6 6H4v2h2V6zm14 0H8v2h12V6zM4 11h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2zM4 16h2v2H4v-2zm16 0H8v2h12v-2z\" fill=\"currentColor\"><\/path><\/svg><svg style=\"fill: #999;color:#999\" class=\"arrow-unsorted-368013\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" width=\"10px\" height=\"10px\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\" version=\"1.2\" baseProfile=\"tiny\"><path d=\"M18.2 9.3l-6.2-6.3-6.2 6.3c-.2.2-.3.4-.3.7s.1.5.3.7c.2.2.4.3.7.3h11c.3 0 .5-.1.7-.3.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7zM5.8 14.7l6.2 6.3 6.2-6.3c.2-.2.3-.5.3-.7s-.1-.5-.3-.7c-.2-.2-.4-.3-.7-.3h-11c-.3 0-.5.1-.7.3-.2.2-.3.5-.3.7s.1.5.3.7z\"\/><\/svg><\/span><\/span><\/span><\/a><\/span><\/div>\n<nav><ul class='ez-toc-list ez-toc-list-level-1 ' ><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-1\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_1\" >Ohenro Basics for Beginners: What the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage Really Is<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-2\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_2\" >Distance and Duration of the Pilgrimage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-3\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_3\" >Is It Really OK for a Beginner?<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-4\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_4\" >How to Start Ohenro in 3 Steps: A Beginner-Friendly Route to Your First Temple<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-5\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_5\" >Step 1: Decide When to Go and How to Travel<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-6\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_6\" >Step 2: Gather the Minimum Outfit and Items<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-7\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_7\" >Step 3: Start from Ryozenji, Temple No. 1<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-8\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_8\" >Ohenro Etiquette for Beginners: From Prayer to Name Slips and Temple Seals<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-9\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_9\" >Basic Flow at Each Temple<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-10\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_10\" >How to Do Gassho (Palms Together)<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-11\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_11\" >Name Slip, Offering, and Temple Seal<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-12\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_12\" >What to Prepare for Your First Ohenro: Outfit, Essentials, and Budget at the Minimum<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-13\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_13\" >The 3 Basic Items for Ohenro Outfit<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-14\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_14\" >Practical Items to Bring<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-15\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_15\" >Big-Picture Budget<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-16\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_16\" >Forward, Reverse, Full, and Segmented: Which Pilgrimage Style Fits a Beginner?<\/a><ul class='ez-toc-list-level-3' ><li class='ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-17\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_17\" >Forward vs. Reverse Pilgrimage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-18\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_18\" >Full vs. Segmented Pilgrimage<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-3'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-19\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_19\" >Recommended Combination for Beginners<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-20\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_20\" >Common Beginner Questions About Ohenro: Clearing Up Doubts on How to Start and Etiquette<\/a><\/li><li class='ez-toc-page-1 ez-toc-heading-level-2'><a class=\"ez-toc-link ez-toc-heading-21\" href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-beginner\/#toc_21\" >Don&#8217;t Regret Your First Ohenro: Smart Options to Reduce the Burden for Beginners<\/a><\/li><\/ul><div class=\"outline-accordion__wrap\"><div class=\"outline-accordion\">Show Contents<\/div><\/div><\/nav><\/div>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_1\"><\/span>Ohenro Basics for Beginners: What the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage Really Is<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-5_h2_1.jpg\" alt=\"Ohenro Basics for Beginners: What the 88-Temple Shikoku Pilgrimage Really Is\" width=\"700\" height=\"524\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Ohenro refers to a <strong>pilgrimage around 88 sacred temples (reijo) scattered across Shikoku Island<\/strong>. Pilgrims visit temples connected to Kobo Daishi (Kukai), the founder of Shingon Buddhism, in a tradition that has continued for over 1,200 years.<\/p>\n<p>Today, people walk it not only for spiritual training, but also to <span class=\"huto\">mark a turning point in life<\/span>, to pray for loved ones, or for family healing. You do not need to be religious or well-versed in Buddhism at all.<\/p>\n<p>In recent years, international visitors, people in their 20s, and seniors in their 50s and beyond are all walking the route. It is said more than 100,000 pilgrims visit each year. The modern Ohenro is less about &#8220;ascetic training&#8221; and more about <span class=\"huto\">taking time to face yourself<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_2\"><\/span>Distance and Duration of the Pilgrimage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The total route of the 88 temples covers <span class=\"marker--yellow\">about 1,200 km<\/span>. Here is the typical time required by each method of travel.<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Method<\/th>\n<th>Days Needed<\/th>\n<th>Features<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Walking<\/td>\n<td>About 40\u201350 days<\/td>\n<td>Most traditional. Requires stamina, time, and budget<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Car \/ Taxi<\/td>\n<td>About 10\u201312 days<\/td>\n<td>Efficient. Easy to complete in one trip<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Bus Tour<\/td>\n<td>About 10\u201312 days<\/td>\n<td>Can be split into several scheduled segments<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Segmented<\/td>\n<td>Several years<\/td>\n<td>Spread across weekends or holidays<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_3\"><\/span>Is It Really OK for a Beginner?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The short answer is, <strong>yes, beginners are completely welcome<\/strong>. Ohenro is a generous pilgrimage that does not judge the depth of your faith or experience.<\/p>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-right\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Curious Visitor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-left\">Is it really OK if I cannot read the sutras, or if I make small mistakes in etiquette?<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-left\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Hajime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-right\">Absolutely. Temple staff are kind to those who say &#8220;this is my first time,&#8221; and fellow pilgrims often teach you on the spot. One of the best things about Ohenro is that <span class=\"huto\">you do not need to aim for perfection<\/span>!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-2 --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_4\"><\/span>How to Start Ohenro in 3 Steps: A Beginner-Friendly Route to Your First Temple<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>Starting Ohenro becomes simple if you follow these <strong>3 steps<\/strong>. Trying to decide everything at once is overwhelming, so take it in order.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_5\"><\/span>Step 1: Decide When to Go and How to Travel<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>First, decide <span class=\"marker--yellow\">when you will go and how you will move<\/span>. Spring (March\u2013May) and autumn (October\u2013November) are the most comfortable seasons for walking.<\/p>\n<p>As for travel, you can choose from walking, car, taxi, bus tour, or a proxy service. If you cannot take long time off work or away from family, segmented pilgrimage or a proxy service are the realistic options.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_6\"><\/span>Step 2: Gather the Minimum Outfit and Items<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>The first three items a beginner should prepare are just <span class=\"huto\">the white robe (byakue), stole (wagesa), and sutra book (nokyocho)<\/span>. Together they cost around 5,000 yen.<\/p>\n<p>You can buy everything at the shop near Ryozenji, Temple No. 1. Buying on-site is the easiest way \u2014 there is no need to order online in advance.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_7\"><\/span>Step 3: Start from Ryozenji, Temple No. 1<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Once you have your gear, you begin Ohenro from <strong>Ryozenji in Tokushima (Temple No. 1)<\/strong>. Ryozenji is accessible as a day trip from the Kansai area, and it is <span class=\"marker--yellow\">the ideal place for a beginner&#8217;s first step<\/span>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"ep-box\">You do not strictly have to start from Temple No. 1 in order. However, for beginners, <span class=\"huto\">going in order (&#8220;jun-uchi&#8221;)<\/span> is the easiest to follow, so starting from No. 1 is the safest choice.<\/div>\n<p>If you want a deeper look at the different pilgrimage styles by travel method, please also read this article.<\/p>\n\n            <div class=\"sitecard\">\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-tour\/\" target=\"_self\">\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__subtitle\">Related Post<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__contents\">\n                        <span class=\"heading\">[Full Comparison] Ohenro Tour Options Explained \u2014 Bus Tour, Proxy Service, or Walking: How to Choose<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch\">\n                        <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch-link\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-tour-img1-300x200.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-tour-img1-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-tour-img1.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a><!-- .sitecard -->\n            <\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-3 --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_8\"><\/span>Ohenro Etiquette for Beginners: From Prayer to Name Slips and Temple Seals<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-5_h2_3.jpg\" alt=\"Ohenro Etiquette for Beginners: From Prayer to Name Slips and Temple Seals\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Each temple visit follows a <strong>basic sequence of etiquette<\/strong>. Knowing it helps, but <span class=\"marker--yellow\">small mistakes are not a problem at all<\/span>. What truly matters is praying with sincerity.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_9\"><\/span>Basic Flow at Each Temple<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>At every temple, your visit roughly follows these steps.<\/p>\n<div class=\"title-box\">\n<div class=\"box-title\">Basic Steps of Worship at Each Temple<\/div>\n<div class=\"box-content\">\n<ul>\n<li>Bow once at the main gate before entering<\/li>\n<li>Purify your hands and mouth at the water pavilion (chozuya)<\/li>\n<li>Pray at the main hall (gassho, sutra, name slip, offering)<\/li>\n<li>Pray at the Daishi hall (same etiquette)<\/li>\n<li>Receive the red stamp and calligraphy at the seal office<\/li>\n<li>Bow once as you leave the gate<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_10\"><\/span>How to Do Gassho (Palms Together)<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Gassho is a simple gesture: <span class=\"huto\">place your palms together in front of your chest and bow your head slightly<\/span>. Even if you cannot read sutras, gassho with &#8220;thank you&#8221; or &#8220;I entrust myself&#8221; in your heart is completely acceptable.<\/p>\n<p>As you get used to it, you may recite the Heart Sutra (Hannya Shingyo) at both the main hall and the Daishi hall for a more formal visit. Many temples also lend sutra books.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_11\"><\/span>Name Slip, Offering, and Temple Seal<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>At the main hall and the Daishi hall, place your <strong>name slip (osamefuda)<\/strong> in the designated box. The name slip carries your name, address, and prayer. The color is white for the 1st\u20134th pilgrimages, and it changes from the 5th and beyond.<\/p>\n<p>Next, make your monetary offering, light a candle and three incense sticks, then pray and chant. Finally, at the <span class=\"huto\">seal office (nokyosho)<\/span>, you receive the red stamp and calligraphy for 500 yen per temple.<\/p>\n<div class=\"ep-box--attention\">The seal fee was <span class=\"huto\">revised in April 2024<\/span>, and the red stamp in your sutra book is now 500 yen per temple (44,000 yen total for 88 temples). Older sources still list the pre-revision rate of 300 yen, so please <strong>plan your budget with the updated amount<\/strong> (source: Shikoku 88-Temple Association).<\/div>\n<p>There is no fixed amount for the offering. Even 5 or 10 yen is not considered rude, so <span class=\"huto\">simply give what feels right<\/span>. For candles and incense, one candle at each hall and three incense sticks is a common guideline.<\/p>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-right\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Curious Visitor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-left\">So I pray at both the main hall and the Daishi hall. I had no idea\u2026<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-left\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Hajime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-right\">Some beginners only pray at the main hall. However, Kobo Daishi himself is enshrined at the Daishi hall, so <span class=\"huto\">praying at both is the true Ohenro basic<\/span>. Do not forget!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-4 --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_12\"><\/span>What to Prepare for Your First Ohenro: Outfit, Essentials, and Budget at the Minimum<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p>For a first-time pilgrim, it&#8217;s easiest to think in three simple categories: <strong>a 3-piece outfit, practical essentials, and travel costs<\/strong>. You do not need to gather everything at once. Start with what you need first.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_13\"><\/span>The 3 Basic Items for Ohenro Outfit<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>If you want to look the part, these three items are all you need.<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Item<\/th>\n<th>Meaning<\/th>\n<th>Price Range<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>White robe (byakue)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Formal look for worship, symbol of pilgrim<\/td>\n<td>2,000\u20134,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Stole (wagesa)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Minimum formal item worn at prayer<\/td>\n<td>2,000\u20133,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td><strong>Sutra book (nokyocho)<\/strong><\/td>\n<td>Book that records the temple seals<\/td>\n<td>2,500\u20135,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>Together these come to <span class=\"marker--yellow\">about 5,000\u201310,000 yen<\/span>. You can buy them all at Ryozenji with no guesswork. Prices vary by material and craftsmanship, but <span class=\"huto\">the simplest version is plenty for your first trip<\/span>.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_14\"><\/span>Practical Items to Bring<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Beyond the outfit, here are the bare minimum items a beginner should bring.<\/p>\n<div class=\"title-box\">\n<div class=\"box-title\">Beginner Essentials Checklist<\/div>\n<div class=\"box-content\">\n<ul>\n<li>Comfortable shoes (hiking shoes for walking pilgrims)<\/li>\n<li>Rain gear (folding umbrella or rain jacket)<\/li>\n<li>Small coins for offerings (500\u20131,000 yen per day)<\/li>\n<li>Seal fees (500 yen \u00d7 number of temples)<\/li>\n<li>Candles and incense (can buy at Temple No. 1)<\/li>\n<li>Name slips (white for 1st\u20134th pilgrimages)<\/li>\n<li>A lighter or matches<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_15\"><\/span>Big-Picture Budget<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Here is a budget guide for a beginner doing the full pilgrimage (tooshi-uchi) in one go.<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Item<\/th>\n<th>Estimated Cost<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Basic outfit (3 items)<\/td>\n<td>5,000\u201310,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Temple seal fees (500 yen \u00d7 88)<\/td>\n<td>44,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Lodging and meals (10\u201312 days)<\/td>\n<td>100,000\u2013150,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Transport (car, gas, tolls)<\/td>\n<td>30,000\u201350,000 yen<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<p>For deeper details on outfit and budget, please also see these articles.<\/p>\n\n            <div class=\"sitecard\">\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-attire\/\" target=\"_self\">\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__subtitle\">Related Post<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__contents\">\n                        <span class=\"heading\">[Complete Guide] Is There a Dress Code for the Shikoku Pilgrimage? White Robe, Pilgrim Outfit, and Casual Clothes Explained<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch\">\n                        <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch-link\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-4-en-eyecatch-300x200.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-4-en-eyecatch-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-4-en-eyecatch.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a><!-- .sitecard -->\n            <\/div>\n\n            <div class=\"sitecard\">\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-cost\/\" target=\"_self\">\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__subtitle\">Related Post<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__contents\">\n                        <span class=\"heading\">How Much Does the Ohenro Pilgrimage Cost? Walking, Car &#038; Taxi Budgets Compared for 2026<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch\">\n                        <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch-link\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-1-en-eyecatch-300x200.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"How Much Does the Ohenro Pilgrimage Cost? Walking, Car &amp; Taxi Budgets Compared for 2026\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-1-en-eyecatch-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-1-en-eyecatch.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a><!-- .sitecard -->\n            <\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-5 --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_16\"><\/span>Forward, Reverse, Full, and Segmented: Which Pilgrimage Style Fits a Beginner?<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-5_h2_5.jpg\" alt=\"Forward, Reverse, Full, and Segmented: Which Pilgrimage Style Fits a Beginner?\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Ohenro has several <strong>pilgrimage styles<\/strong>. The names sound complex, but the meanings are simple once you break them down.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_17\"><\/span>Forward vs. Reverse Pilgrimage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Forward pilgrimage (jun-uchi) visits <span class=\"huto\">the temples in order, from No. 1 to No. 88<\/span>. The road signs and guidance are built around this direction, so <span class=\"marker--yellow\">beginners should generally choose forward order first<\/span>.<\/p>\n<p>Reverse pilgrimage (gyaku-uchi) goes from Temple No. 88 back to No. 1. It is said to bring <span class=\"huto\">three times the blessings<\/span> in a leap year. However, road signs face the opposite way, so it is more difficult for beginners.<\/p>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_18\"><\/span>Full vs. Segmented Pilgrimage<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>Full pilgrimage (tooshi-uchi) visits <span class=\"huto\">all 88 temples in one continuous trip<\/span>. Walking takes about 40 days, while driving takes around 10\u201312 days.<\/p>\n<p>Segmented pilgrimage (kugiri-uchi) splits the journey into <span class=\"huto\">several separate trips<\/span>. It is popular among those who cannot take long vacations, and many spread it across one to two years.<\/p>\n<table>\n<thead>\n<tr>\n<th>Style<\/th>\n<th>Features<\/th>\n<th>Best For<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n<tbody>\n<tr>\n<td>Forward<\/td>\n<td>Temple 1 \u2192 88<\/td>\n<td>All beginners<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Reverse<\/td>\n<td>Temple 88 \u2192 1<\/td>\n<td>Experienced \/ leap-year pilgrims<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Full<\/td>\n<td>All in one continuous trip<\/td>\n<td>Those with long vacations<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<tr>\n<td>Segmented<\/td>\n<td>Split into several trips<\/td>\n<td>Those with work\/family commitments<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<h3><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_19\"><\/span>Recommended Combination for Beginners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h3>\n<p>For first-time pilgrims, <strong>&#8220;forward + segmented&#8221;<\/strong> is the most approachable combination. You start from Temple No. 1 in order, and divide the journey across long weekends or short holidays.<\/p>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-right\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Curious Visitor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-left\">Forty days straight seems unrealistic for me, so splitting it up sounds much more doable.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-left\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Hajime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-right\">Exactly. Many beginners start with segmented pilgrimage. The realistic pace that <span class=\"huto\">completes one full loop in one to two years<\/span> usually fits daily life without breaking your schedule!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>If you would like to learn more about full and segmented pilgrimage, see this article.<\/p>\n\n            <div class=\"sitecard\">\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-days\/\" target=\"_self\">\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__subtitle\">Related Post<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__contents\">\n                        <span class=\"heading\">[Complete Guide] How Many Days Does the Ohenro Take? Duration by Transport (Full Circuit vs. Split)<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch\">\n                        <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch-link\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"225\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-days-eyecatch-300x225.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-days-eyecatch-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/ohenro-days-eyecatch.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a><!-- .sitecard -->\n            <\/div>\n<p><!-- H2-6 FAQ --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_20\"><\/span>Common Beginner Questions About Ohenro: Clearing Up Doubts on How to Start and Etiquette<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<dl class=\"faq-item\">\n<dt class=\"faq-item__question js-toggle\">Is it OK to start Ohenro alone?<\/dt>\n<dd class=\"faq-item__answer\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<div class=\"faq-item__answer-inner\">Yes, going alone is absolutely fine. In fact, <span class=\"huto\">nearly half of all pilgrims travel solo<\/span>. Walking alone lets you set your own pace, and natural conversations with other pilgrims often happen along the route. Many solo women also walk Ohenro, and there are lodges and inns welcoming female solo travelers.<\/div>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<dl class=\"faq-item\">\n<dt class=\"faq-item__question js-toggle\">I cannot read sutras. Can I still do Ohenro?<\/dt>\n<dd class=\"faq-item__answer\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<div class=\"faq-item__answer-inner\">Absolutely. <span class=\"huto\">Gassho and silent gratitude<\/span> alone count as a proper prayer. If you wish to read the Heart Sutra, you can buy a sutra book with furigana (reading guides) at Temple No. 1, so anyone can read it. You will naturally remember parts as you continue \u2014 no need to aim for perfection from the start.<\/div>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<dl class=\"faq-item\">\n<dt class=\"faq-item__question js-toggle\">What is the shortest way to finish Ohenro?<\/dt>\n<dd class=\"faq-item__answer\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<div class=\"faq-item__answer-inner\">By car, the shortest is about <span class=\"huto\">10\u201312 days<\/span>. Taxi pilgrimage moves even faster, but visiting 8\u201310 temples per day can be surprisingly tough. To pace yourself comfortably, 14 straight days or segmented over several trips is more realistic.<\/div>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<dl class=\"faq-item\">\n<dt class=\"faq-item__question js-toggle\">Is it true that a reverse pilgrimage in a leap year brings triple blessings?<\/dt>\n<dd class=\"faq-item__answer\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<div class=\"faq-item__answer-inner\">The saying &#8220;<span class=\"huto\">reverse pilgrimage in a leap year = triple blessing<\/span>&#8221; does exist. It comes from the legend of Emon Saburo, who followed Kobo Daishi by walking the route in reverse and reportedly met him during a leap year. There is no scientific basis, and <span class=\"marker--blue\">signs face the opposite direction, which makes it difficult for beginners<\/span>, so we recommend that first-time pilgrims start with forward order.<\/div>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<dl class=\"faq-item\">\n<dt class=\"faq-item__question js-toggle\">My elderly parent wants to try Ohenro for the first time. I&#8217;m worried.<\/dt>\n<dd class=\"faq-item__answer\" style=\"display: none;\">\n<div class=\"faq-item__answer-inner\">First, choose <span class=\"huto\">a travel method that matches your parent&#8217;s stamina<\/span>. Walking pilgrimage is a 40-plus-day journey that demands real physical strength. Car or taxi pilgrimage and bus tours greatly reduce the load, but visiting 8\u201310 temples a day can still be tiring. If it seems too demanding, a proxy service or a one-day experience tour is another option.<\/div>\n<\/dd>\n<\/dl>\n<p><!-- H2-7 Summary + CTA --><\/p>\n<h2><span class=\"ez-toc-section\" id=\"toc_21\"><\/span>Don&#8217;t Regret Your First Ohenro: Smart Options to Reduce the Burden for Beginners<span class=\"ez-toc-section-end\"><\/span><\/h2>\n<p><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/04\/p0-5_h2_7.jpg\" alt=\"Don't Regret Your First Ohenro: Smart Options to Reduce the Burden for Beginners\" width=\"700\" height=\"466\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Let&#8217;s recap everything one more time.<\/p>\n<div class=\"ep-box\">\n<ul>\n<li>Ohenro is absolutely fine for beginners \u2014 no experience required<\/li>\n<li>Start in 3 steps: <span class=\"huto\">pick a season \u2192 prepare your outfit \u2192 begin at Ryozenji<\/span><\/li>\n<li>Do not aim for perfect etiquette \u2014 <span class=\"huto\">gassho and sincerity<\/span> are what matter<\/li>\n<li>The minimum outfit is the white robe, stole, and sutra book (from 5,000 yen)<\/li>\n<li>Beginners do best with the &#8220;forward + segmented&#8221; combination<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<p>Seen this way, Ohenro is <span class=\"huto\">easier to start than most people imagine<\/span>, isn&#8217;t it?<\/p>\n<p>That said, we still hear plenty of concerns: &#8220;I can&#8217;t take long time off,&#8221; &#8220;gathering the outfit sounds complicated,&#8221; &#8220;my elderly parents want to walk it but no longer have the strength.&#8221;<\/p>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-right\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Curious Visitor<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-left\">I understand the &#8220;how,&#8221; but I still can&#8217;t take a long vacation. And my parents say they want to go, but they can no longer handle it physically.<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"balloon\">\n<figure class=\"balloon__img balloon__img-left\">\n<div><\/div><figcaption class=\"balloon__name\">Hajime<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<div class=\"balloon__text balloon__text-right\">We hear that a lot. At <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/\">Ohenro Gift Service<\/a>, we prepare the full outfit and sutra book, and <span class=\"huto\">walk the 88-temple route on your behalf<\/span>. We take the complexity of preparation and etiquette off your shoulders, turning your heart&#8217;s wish into something you can hand to your family!<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<p>Your sutra book is stamped with <span class=\"marker--yellow\">real seals and calligraphy from all 88 temples<\/span>. We also include photos of the route, so your family truly feels that the pilgrimage was completed for them.<\/p>\n<p>Whether you cannot take the time off yourself, or you want someone to walk on your family&#8217;s behalf, just reach out. We&#8217;ll build the right plan together. <strong>Cost, timing, and how to present it as a gift<\/strong> are all flexible.<\/p>\n<p>Any question is welcome \u2014 about the pilgrimage itself, about ways to walk it, or about the small hesitations beginners feel. A consultation alone is perfectly fine.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/\">\u00bb Visit Ohenro Gift Service<\/a><\/p>\n\n            <div class=\"sitecard\">\n                <a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/agency\/\" target=\"_self\">\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__subtitle\">Related Post<\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__contents\">\n                        <span class=\"heading\">[Ohenro]Shikoku Pilgrimage Proxy Service: Costs and How to Choose a Trusted Provider<\/span>\n                    <\/div>\n                    <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch\">\n                        <div class=\"sitecard__eyecatch-link\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"300\" height=\"200\" src=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/agency_thumb-300x200.jpg\" class=\"attachment-medium size-medium wp-post-image\" alt=\"[Ohenro]Shikoku Pilgrimage Proxy Service: Costs and How to Choose a Trusted Provider\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/agency_thumb-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/giftohenro369\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/03\/agency_thumb.jpg 700w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 300px) 100vw, 300px\" \/><\/div>\n                    <\/div>\n                <\/a><!-- .sitecard -->\n            <\/div>\n<div class=\"ep-box\">\n<p>\u25bcRelated Reading<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-cost\/\">[2026 Updated] How Much Does Ohenro Really Cost? Walking, Car, and Taxi Budgets Compared<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-days\/\">[Complete Guide] How Many Days Does Ohenro Take? Full Pilgrimage and Segmented Pilgrimage Explained<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-attire\/\">[Complete Guide] Is There a Dress Code for the Shikoku Pilgrimage? White Robe, Pilgrim Outfit, and Casual Clothes Explained<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/ohenro-tour\/\">[Side-by-Side] How to Choose Your Ohenro Tour: Bus Tour, Proxy, and Walking Compared<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>A complete beginner&#8217;s guide to Shikoku Ohenro (88-temple pilgrimage). Learn the 3-step way to start, basic temple etiquette, the minimum outfit and budget, and which pilgrimage style fits first-time walkers.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":542,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":"","_wp_rev_ctl_limit":""},"categories":[2],"tags":[19,21,20,16],"class_list":["post-543","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ohenro","tag-beginner","tag-etiquette","tag-how-to-start","tag-ohenro"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/543","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=543"}],"version-history":[{"count":2,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/543\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":693,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/543\/revisions\/693"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/542"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=543"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=543"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ohenro-gift.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=543"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}