Yodo Dojo Pilgrimage Training

A classical pilgrimage circuit visiting thirty-three Kannon (Avalokiteshvara) temples centered in the Kinki region. Said to have begun in 708, it became beloved by aristocrats and devotees since the Heian period. Requiring over thirty years for complete pilgrimage, it continues from Edo-period commoner pilgrimages to modern stamp-collecting trends in various pilgrimage formats.

Collective name for three major shrines: Kumano Hongu, Kumano Hayatama, and Kumano Nachi. Since ancient times, imperial and noble families made pilgrimages here. Connected to Pure Land Buddhism beliefs, this 1000-year pilgrimage tradition remains central to modern pilgrimage tourism. The pilgrimage routes to each shrine are UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

The birthplace of Shinran Sage in Shimogyo Ward, Kyoto—a pilgrimage site for learning the life and teachings of Shinran, founder of Pure Land Buddhism. As a representative sacred site in the Hongwanji faith sphere, it attracts not only Jodo Shinshu adherents but also scholars and cultural enthusiasts. Characterized by combined pilgrimage to Shinran's mausoleum and surrounding temple visits.

An urban pilgrimage route visiting shrines along Tokyo's JR Yamanote Line. Historically significant shrines like Kanda Myojin, Hie Shrine, and Akasaka Hikawa Shrine can be visited efficiently despite being in the city center. Paired with the stamp-collecting boom, it has gained popularity among younger generations.

A small pilgrimage village along the Kumano Kodo in Kinokawa, Wakayama Prefecture. Since the Edo period, local homes have welcomed travelers, and the shukubo lodging culture continues today. Remnants of teahouses and hospitality stations used by Kumano pilgrims are scattered throughout, offering precious insights into historical pilgrimage practices.

Ancient pilgrimage route approximately 16km long from Omiva Shrine to Hinokara Shrine in northern Nara Prefecture. Considered one of Japan's oldest pilgrimage paths, walked by believers since antiquity. Dotted with historic shrines and temples along the route. Offers a harmonious blend of nature and historical pilgrimage experience. Today still visited by pilgrims and hikers seeking the spirit of ancient Japanese faith.

Japan's oldest imperial road running north-south through the Nara Basin in northern Nara Prefecture. Documented in the Nihon Shoki, it has been walked by pilgrims since mythological times. Ancient sites like the Yamato-Asakura Burial Complex, Omiwajinja, and Chouzenji dot the route. Spanning approximately 20 kilometers, pilgrims experience over 1,500 years of Japanese faith and culture from burial mound to Heian period.