The white-clad figures that pop up frequently during a search about the famous Shikoku 88 pilgrimage have an official name. They are called Ohenro. It is not an exclusive term - anyone can become one when walking the trail.
In March and April, cherry blossom mania begins - forecasts as to when and where the blooms will appear first and when they will peak make the morning weather reports. Sakura -flavored items make their way into restaurant menus, coffee shops, and supermarkets.
The bridge to Okunoin serves as a boundary between worlds, and the cedar trees lining the path seem to open a barrier that welcomes you into the spirit world.
I don’t consider myself a particularly religious person following any specific devout path and surprisingly, such feelings are shared with a lot of Japanese people as well.
Japan is a country that is very friendly towards solo travellers. Historically, people walked trails by themselves as wandering merchants, ronin (‘masterless samurai’) or religious pilgrims.
While there are other notable towns along this legendary route, one of the most memorable aspects of a visit to this area is the human connection made with the local residents.
A far cry from typical office life, Oku Japan team members Mayumi Bamyo and Satoe Shoji typically spend time with various people in the community each day.
It's our belief that travelling away from the cities is where children will learn and experience the most, and create memories that will stay with them well into adulthood.
While every season has its own charm, the temperatures, events and scenery of one may be better suited to your interests than another. This change has a rippling effect that seeps into Japan’s daily life...
