Nabeiwa

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Smithsonian MagazineSep 29, 2026

Japan's Smallest and Least-Populated Major Island Is a World of Pilgrimages, Delicious Food and Plenty of Forest Bathing

Each year, more than 100,000 people hike at least part of a 750-mile route on Shikoku that connects 88 Buddhist temples and other sacred sites

12 things in this story
  • Sudachi-anHotelLocal guesthouse in the village of Nabeiwa
  • Elsewhere
  • Konsen-jiSightShikoku, JapanThird temple on the Shikoku Pilgrimage route
  • Shikoku PilgrimageTrailShikoku, Japan750-mile circuit connecting 88 Buddhist temples
  • Tairyuji TempleSightShikoku, JapanTemple 21, perched among centuries-old trees
  • Tairyuji RopewaySightShikoku, JapanLongest cable car route in western Japan
  • Umaji OnsenSightUmaji, JapanSoak in yuzu baths and dine on inaka sushi
  • Nakano Udon SchoolRestaurantKotohira, JapanInvites visitors to 'dance' on dough to create noodles
  • Dogo OnsenSightShikoku, JapanFamous hot spring, inspiration for Spirited Away
  • Otani WarePlaceNaruto, JapanTraditional Japanese pottery known for iron-rich clay
  • Bando Prisoner of War CampSightNaruto, JapanCan you imagine any POW camp being a paradise?
  • RyozenjiSightShikoku, JapanFirst temple on the pilgrimage
  • German Village ParkSightNaruto, Japan
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