Shikoku Pilgrimage Gear List: What you really need

It's not easy to decide what to take on a pilgrimage almost 10,000 km from home. On one hand, you want to carry as little as possible for over 1,000 km, but on the other hand, you're worried about forgetting something important.

In this post, I want to introduce you to my final gear list for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which will help you with your own gear planning. From the right clothing for walking pilgrims, to the suitable pilgrims backpack, to practical little things, you'll find everything I packed for the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

For each item, I explain my reasons for taking it, whether it proved useful on the pilgrimage, and my final verdict after over 1,000 km on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. All opinions and assessments are based solely on my personal experience. What worked well for me might not necessarily be right for you. Nonetheless, I hope my list can serve as an inspiration!

Tip: At the end of the post, you'll find a downloadable and printable PDF gear list for walking pilgrims!

Creating the Perfect Gear List for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

I planned my gear list for the pilgrimage months before my flight to Japan, researching online on blogs and in pilgrim groups, and testing various hiking gear in advance. I must have rewritten my packing list at least five times, swapping out gear or removing items entirely. After a lot of research and trial and error, this gear list for the Shikoku Pilgrimage was created.

My gear list is designed to walk the entire Shikoku Pilgrimage on foot. I always stay in traditional inns, hostels, or hotels in Japan, so I don't need camping gear.

My gear list is intended for walking the pilgrimage in spring or fall. Accordingly, my clothing is suitable for temperatures between 5 and 20 degrees Celsius. If you plan to start your pilgrimage in summer or winter, you should adjust your gear list accordingly, by adding or removing warm clothing. Think about which season is best for your pilgrimage before your trip.

Packing Tips for Backpackers & Pilgrims

As a pilgrim, you are less of a typical tourist and more of a backpacker. You carry all your belongings on your back at all times. Therefore, you should pack as light as possible, following the motto "as little as possible, as much as necessary." A good rule of thumb is that the weight of your backpack should be between 10 to 20% of your body weight. My goal was to keep the weight of my backpack under 6 kilograms.

Also, pay attention to your airline's baggage restrictions! Especially if you are traveling with only hand luggage (which I highly recommend), you might not be able to take everything or only in small quantities. However, this saves you the fees for checked baggage and makes your flight cheaper.

You should test all your clothing and hiking gear under similar conditions at least once before embarking on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It's best to train with the gear on your gear list beforehand. On short hikes, you can break in your shoes and test if everything fits and works well.

The Right Shoes for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

The right shoes are the most important item on your entire pilgrimage gear list! You need shoes that you can rely on on steep hiking trails in the mountains, but that also provide enough comfort for walking on asphalt.

I chose trail running shoes. Trail running shoes have good traction without being heavy. They are lightweight and breathable, allowing you to be quick and flexible while trail running. Trail running shoes are similar to running shoes but have a grippy sole adapted for mountain and hiking trails.

Ordinary hiking boots are not breathable enough in the long run and too heavy for the Shikoku Pilgrimage or other thru-hikes. The additional ankle support is only useful if you already have injuries or problems in that area. Most pilgrims benefit from trail running shoes.

Merrel Trail Glove 7

I embarked on the Shikoku Pilgrimage with my favorite shoes: the Merrel Trail Glove 7. The Merrel Trail Glove 7* is a robust barefoot shoe designed for trail running. I love these shoes because they are very lightweight and comfortable to wear. While hiking, I hardly notice the shoes. They fit perfectly to my foot shape without being restrictive. The Merrel Trail Glove 7 comes in both men's and women's* models to better accommodate different foot shapes.

They are very breathable, with the upper made of recycled mesh. Even on long hikes, sweat is kept to a minimum. In the rain, your feet will get wet, but the shoes dry quickly. The grippy Vibram sole provides excellent traction while still being thin enough for good ground feel and flexible enough for running or steep mountain climbs. Additionally, the shoes are 100% vegan and made from recycled materials.

Although the Merrel Trail Glove 7 are my favorite shoes for hiking in nature, I can't recommend them for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. I underestimated how uncomfortable walking on asphalt would be in them. The first few days were tough but bearable. However, it became really painful on the long coastal stretch to Cape Muroto, which is entirely along the road.

Additionally, the asphalt took a toll on the sole of the Merrel Trail Glove 7. After about three weeks, the tread was significantly worn down. So, I reluctantly bought new shoes in Kōchi and sent the Merrel Trail Glove 7 back. I would have liked to continue using them for natural hiking trails or the climbs to the mountain temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, but the extra weight deterred me.

_{Caution: Please do not use barefoot shoes for long hikes if your feet are not used to them! The risk of injury is high in this case, as your entire musculoskeletal system first needs to adapt to a more natural walking motion. Start slowly and gradually increase your distance in barefoot shoes.}

Altra Lone Peak 8

In Kōchi, I went shopping and tried on several shoes. I liked the Altra Lone Peak 8 the best. The Altra Lone Peak 8* is also a trail running shoe, but with much thicker cushioning for more comfort when walking. This sacrifices some ground feel, but the insole makes a huge difference when walking on asphalt.

The tread of the Lone Peak provides sufficient grip even on wet and muddy paths, which I tested extensively in Kuma Kōgen. The wide toe box and zero drop make the shoes comparable to barefoot shoes with extra cushioning. I am very glad I switched to the Lone Peaks. They really saved my feet and knees.

If you are looking for even more cushioning, I recommend the Altra Olympus*. Compared to the Lone Peak, the Olympus is about 200 g heavier but has a sole height of 33 mm instead of 25 mm. The Olympus also has zero drop and a natural foot shape. Unfortunately, my size was not available locally, as the Olympus seems to run one size smaller.

Clothing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

I tried to put together my clothing items according to the capsule wardrobe principle. You might ask, "What is the capsule wardrobe principle?" The idea of the capsule wardrobe comes from minimalism. It's about assembling a compact wardrobe with a minimum number of clothing items. Everything in the capsule wardrobe fits well together and is interchangeable.

So, I always have a matching outfit, no matter what I combine. That's the theory behind the capsule wardrobe principle. Dressed in layers, my clothing keeps me warm even in winter temperatures but isn't too warm or heavy in spring. The outfits in layers are therefore super practical for hiking and take up little space.

Admittedly, the outfits didn't turn out particularly stylish. But that's difficult with functional clothing. In outdoor clothing, neutral colors like green or brown tones are very common, while jackets often have bright colors. This results in some adventurous color combinations. For me, practicality was definitely the focus.

Traditionally, pilgrims wear completely white clothing. Nowadays, many Japanese pilgrims are in normal street or outdoor clothing and are only recognizable by a few selected pilgrim items such as the pilgrim hat and pilgrim staff.

Injinji Toe Socks

‍Toe socks are often considered unfashionable. Admittedly not very attractive, toe socks are super practical for long hikes. The additional fabric between the toes effectively protects you from annoying blisters. Moreover, toe socks offer more freedom of movement for your toes, supporting a natural gait.

A popular brand for toe socks is Injinji. For the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I packed two different models of Injinji: a thin variant to wear underneath and a thicker version. Injinji toe socks* are made of merino wool, providing odor-resistant and temperature-regulating properties. Additionally, merino wool effectively wicks away sweat, making it the perfect material for socks!

I had already heard that Injinji toe socks have a slight durability issue, which unfortunately also proved true for me. The first holes appeared under my foot and on the toes in Kōchi Prefecture. Shortly after, both pairs of Injinji toe socks were no longer wearable.

For regular hikes, Injinji toe socks are great, but for thru-hikes or pilgrimages, the socks are unfortunately not durable enough. Therefore, I would not take the Injinji socks with me next time. Fortunately, I had two more pairs of socks in my pack: Darn Tough socks.

Darn Tough Socks

Because I didn't want to bring only toe socks, I also packed two pairs of Darn Tough socks* for alternating and as a second warmer layer. The Darn Tough Vermont company promises to make the most durable socks you'll ever own. And to ensure this is not just an empty promise, they offer a lifetime guarantee on the wear and tear of their socks!

Initially, I was skeptical because of the relatively high price for socks, but I was absolutely positively surprised. So far, I have only had good experiences with Darn Tough socks. The Darn Tough socks were the only ones to survive the entire Shikoku Pilgrimage without holes.

In between, I bought two pairs of toe socks from Montbell as a replacement for the Injinji socks, but they also developed too many holes after a short time. In contrast, the Darn Tough socks still look as good as new, even though I also wore them on the way to Kōya-san and in Okinawa after the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

The Darn Tough socks are reinforced at critical parts and have light padding. They are largely made of merino wool and keep you warm without making you sweat. That's why they are popular among backpackers, especially for thru-hikes. In winter and spring, I wore the midweight socks*, and as it got warmer, I switched to the lightweight socks*. For summer, I particularly recommend the ultra-lightweight run version*, which is extra breathable!

I actually bought more Darn Tough socks for everyday use because I am impressed with the quality and comfort. So far, none of the pairs have developed holes, so I can't comment on the promised guarantee. The only downside is that Darn Tough socks are hard to get on Shikoku. Next time I head to the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I'll take four pairs of Darn Tough socks in different weights to be prepared for any weather.

Tajo 2 Zip-Off Trekking Pants from Maier Sports

The Tajo 2 Zip-Off Trekking Pants from Maier Sports accompanied me to the far north of Japan, enduring heavy rain and snow without any problems. The material is very light, stretchy, and dries incredibly quickly.

Although the fabric is so thin, the pants are surprisingly warm. Even at temperatures around 0 degrees, the pants keep you comfortably warm if you wear a layer of thermal underwear underneath. In warmer temperatures, the legs can easily be zipped off. I even wore the Tajo 2 in Okinawa at about 30 degrees, and it wasn't too warm.

I was super satisfied with the Tajo 2 Zip-Off Trekking Pants* again on Shikoku. Unfortunately, it rained a lot during my pilgrimage, and I didn't have rain pants. Fortunately, this was not a problem with the Tajo 2, as the pants dry really quickly even while wearing them and don't soak up rain like cotton. So I was never wet for long and didn't miss having rain pants.

Domyos Shorts from Decathlon as Spare Pants

You don't necessarily need a second pair of pants for pilgrimage. Most accommodations provide sleepwear, and if you have quick-drying hiking pants, they dry overnight after washing. But I still wanted to take at least a thin and lightweight pair of sports shorts as a backup. In case my hiking pants didn't dry on time, if I wanted to change clothes during the day, and for stays in hostels where there is no sleepwear provided.

In minshuku (Japanese inns), you usually get yukata (traditional Japanese bathrobes). Yukata are super practical after bathing, but I don't like sleeping in yukata. It always slips and I almost strangle myself with the obi (the belt of the yukata). I often wore the Domyos Shorts* in the evening and at night in the guesthouse and was very glad to have brought them.

The Domyos shorts from Decathlon weigh only about 180 g, can be rolled up compactly, and take up virtually no space. The price is also unbeatable. On particularly cold days, I even wore the Domyos shorts as an additional warming layer over my trekking pants until the sun warmed up the landscape in Shikoku sufficiently around noon.

Merino Underwear from Decathlon and Super.natural

Merino wool is not only a great material for socks due to its antibacterial properties, but also for underwear and functional clothing in general. For the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I took three different pairs of merino wool underpants: two from Decathlon and one from the brand Super.natural.

When choosing the underpants, I paid particular attention to the length of the legs to protect my thighs from chafing. The different models have different material thicknesses so I can better adapt to changing weather conditions.

The Base Mid 175g boxer shorts from the brand Super.natural unfortunately did not convince me. They are priced slightly higher than Decathlon underwear but cannot compete in terms of quality. The fabric eventually started to wear out and form small nodules, even though I wore this pair the least. Additionally, the legs constantly rode up, which is very annoying on longer distances and leads to sore spots.

I was all the more pleased with the merino wool boxer shorts from Decathlon. They are affordable and available in two thicknesses: MT500* und MT900*. The MT500 feels about half as thick as the MT900. Especially at the end of February and the beginning of March, I was very happy about the thicker MT900 because they kept me warm even in cold temperatures.

As it got significantly warmer at the end of March, I primarily wore the MT500. These wick away sweat better but are a little less durable. Next time, I will take two pairs of MT500 boxer shorts and one pair of MT900 for colder days.

By the way, Decathlon also offers the MT500* and MT900* in a version for women. However, I would probably still prefer the boxer shorts because the long legs protect the thighs well from chafing.

Merino180 SvenstaSt. Short Pants Merino Underwear from Stoic

In addition to regular underwear, I also packed a half-length warm underpants that make my Tajo 2 Zip-Off Trekking Pants winter-ready. I found that long underpants are too warm in the long run for hiking, so I opted for a half-length version.

The merino underwear from Stoic is not only nice and warm but also thin and even fits under regular jeans. The flat seams prevent pressure points or chafing.

Unfortunately, the merino underwear from Stoic did not last long. Around the same time as the Injinji toe socks, large holes also appeared in the merino underwear from Stoic. The material is too thin and not durable enough to withstand the continuous strain of the pilgrimage.

Therefore, the merino underwear ended up in the trash in Susaki. Instead, I wore the thicker MT900 underwear from Decathlon in combination with the Domyos Shorts* in addition to my trekking pants until the temperatures rose.

Versalite Rain Jacket from Montbell

Montbell is Japan's most popular brand for outdoor clothing and is really great. Unfortunately, the items are hard to get in Germany or are more expensive due to import costs. Therefore, I wanted to buy the Torrent Flier rain jacket directly after my arrival in Osaka.

The Torrent Flier jacket is made of Gore-Tex, waterproof up to at least 50,000 mm water column, and very breathable at 44,000 g/m² per 24 hours. The jacket weighs only about 250 g and is easily packable. However, I didn't like the fit of the Torrent Flier jacket.

So I ended up choosing the Versalite rain jacket, an absolute classic from Montbell. At only about 130 g, the Versalite is even lighter than the Torrent Flier and equally breathable at 43.000 g/m². However, the Versalite only offers a water column of 20,000 mm, which is less than half.

Despite the low weight, the Versalite rain jacket comes with a few nice features: The hood is adjustable in multiple ways, there is an adjustable hem and cuffs. Additionally, the cut provides more freedom of movement without the jacket shifting.

Unfortunately, the Versalite didn't always keep out the rain. In persistent rain, the water eventually penetrated, especially at the sleeves. I suspect that the membrane was damaged. For next time, I might go for the Torrent Flier or the Valdipino Poncho* from Vaude.

Rosemoor II Fleece Jacket from Vaude

As a warming layer for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I packed the Rosemoor II fleece jacket from Vaude. The main argument for this particular fleece jacket was that, compared to other fleece jackets, it is very lightweight at just under 300 g while still keeping you warm.

It is made from Polartec® fleece, which is 100% recycled polyester. The drawstring at the hem keeps the jacket in place, so it doesn't ride up when wearing a backpack.

I wore the Rosemoor II fleece jacket* daily during the pilgrimage in February, later only during breaks, at temples, and on particularly cold evenings. For strenuous and steep paths, the jacket is too warm and sweaty in the long run, but fleece jackets are not designed for that.

Overall, I was very satisfied with the Rosemoor II fleece jacket. Only a hood and a bit more wind protection would have been nice, as it was quite breezy along the Pacific coast. For that, however, I had my softshell vest.

Muurla Softshell Vest from Kaikkialla

Since my fleece jacket unfortunately doesn't have a hood and isn't very windproof, I also packed my Muurla softshell vest from Kaikkialla. The softshell vest is much more breathable than a wind or rain jacket but provides almost as much protection in stormy weather.

At the beginning of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I often wore the Muurla softshell vest* as an additional warming layer over the fleece jacket. As it got warmer, I used it as the only layer over a shirt for protection against wind and weather during steep mountain climbs.

‍The Muurla softshell vest proved to be an additional layer because it is windproof and breathable, dries quickly, and successfully protected me from cooling down. I would take the softshell vest to Shikoku again for any weather.

Baselayer for Pilgrimage

Among my tops, you'll also find merino wool to serve as a warming base layer. The Backpacking Shirt Travel 500* from Decathlon was my baselayer for cold days. The shirt is lightweight, keeps you warm, and is comfortable to wear.

Unfortunately, I forgot it about halfway through the pilgrimage in a hotel and have missed it since then. Fortunately, I bought a comparable thin merino wool pullover from Montbell, which I then wore instead.

Long-Sleeve Shirt for Sun Protection

Additionally, my packing list includes a long-sleeved lightweight hiking shirt made of synthetic material. The MH550 hiking shirt* has a front zipper, is great for warmer days, sweaty climbs, or as an additional warming layer, and offers extra sun protection with its long sleeves.

The sun in Japan is quite strong, and the UV radiation is stronger than in Germany. Large parts of the Shikoku Pilgrimage are along the coast, where the sun is additionally reflected by the sea. Therefore, proper sun protection for Japan is very important.

In April, it became significantly warmer, and I switched primarily to the hiking shirt. The fabric dries quickly and is pleasantly light. The hiking shirt will definitely come with me again next time.

Tank Top Yoga from Kimjaly

As an underlayer, I also had a tank top that is actually intended for yoga. I also wore the tank top for sleeping and as spare clothing when the other tops were in the wash.

The Tank Top Yoga* wicks away sweat well, dries quickly, and has no seams that could chafe. Since it is so compact and super lightweight at 85 g, it will probably come with me again next time.

Additional Clothing from Montbell

When I arrived in February, it was significantly colder in Japan than I had expected. So I quickly bought a thin merino wool pullover from Montbell while looking for a rain jacket. The Merino Wool Plus Light Hoodie served as an additional layer at the beginning in combination with my baselayer and fleece jacket.

Later, the pullover replaced my baselayer when I forgot it in Shimanto in a hotel. The pullover was unfortunately not cheap, but it is lightweight, warm, and breathable at the same time. When the temperatures rose significantly in April, the pullover remained as a backup in the pack but was primarily replaced by my hiking shirt.

Towards the end of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I made another stop at Montbell in Saijō. What I was missing at this point for very warm days was a good breathable T-shirt. I was recommended the Wickron material, which feels like cotton but is much more breathable and quick-drying.

The special fabric wicks sweat away from the skin and evaporates it quickly. Additionally, the material protects against UV radiation. For summer, I highly recommend Wickron. Next time, I would rather buy an additional T-shirt on-site when it gets warmer than carry it unused for weeks.

Hat, Scarf & Gloves Against the Winter Cold

As additional protection against the winter cold at the beginning of February, a hat, scarf, and gloves are also on my pilgrimage packing list. The hat was actually from the 100 Yen Shop. It is much thinner than my actual winter hat, so I don't start sweating on steep climbs but still keep my ears warm.

The cheap hat only fulfilled its purpose as long as there was no wind in addition to the cold. Next time, I am considering taking the MT500 hat* made of merino wool from Decathlon.

The MT500 multifunctional scarf* from Decathlon already convinced me during the training for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It can be worn as a headband, ear warmer, or scarf and is surprisingly warm despite being made of thin merino wool. Unfortunately, I lost the scarf in the first few days and had to get a replacement.

As gloves, I had the seamless MT500 gloves* from Forclaz, which are actually meant to be worn underneath, but I wore them as the only layer. They are well-suited for pilgrimage as the MT500 gloves are not too warm or thick. Additionally, they are lightly reinforced and primarily intended to keep the hands warm while photographing and holding the pilgrim staff.

he gloves were only used on a few days, as I sent them back to reduce my pack weight. Next time, however, I wouldn't do that anymore, as there were some steep sections towards the end of the Shikoku Pilgrimage where I more or less crawled on all fours. I missed the gloves painfully, especially on the climb to Bekkaku 20.

Backpack, Bags & Organization for Pilgrimage

Finding a lightweight, practical, and well-fitting backpack for pilgrimage was not easy. Proper trekking backpacks are comfortable and have a comfortable carrying system but weigh unnecessarily much and tempt you to pack everything possible, which you end up carrying unused.

A simple city or daypack is compact but often too uncomfortable in the long run. Such backpacks lack the option to distribute the weight between the shoulders and hips, leading to tension. I searched for a long time before finding a suitable backpack for me. Since everyone has slightly different ideas about the perfect pilgrim backpack, I would like to introduce you to my backpack and an alternative.

Uphill 16 Cycling Backpack from Vaude

My search for the right pilgrim backpack was quite long. In the end, I chose the Vaude Uphill 16. The backpack is primarily designed for off-road cycling, but its features perfectly matched my requirements. That's why the Vaude Uphill 16 cycling backpack* convinced me anyway.

The Vaude backpack weighs only 420 g, which is very light for this size and features. With a volume of 16 l, the backpack is neither too large for a day tour nor too small for all my pilgrimage packing list items (excluding what I'm wearing). The small volume naturally requires you to restrict yourself when packing. However, there is still some space left for extra provisions and small items, even with 16 l.

Neben eiIn addition to a large main compartment, the Uphill 16 cycling backpack has a small front pocket for small items and two practical mesh pockets on the sides. One mesh pocket is suitable for bottles, while the other can be closed with a zipper. Both mesh pockets are accessible without having to take off the backpack.

The backpack has not only a chest strap but also a hip belt, which allows you to transfer the load from your shoulders to your hips. If desired, the backpack can be combined with a hydration bladder, as the necessary equipment is also available. The lacing on the front can be used to store a rain jacket, a sweater, or trekking poles.

A practical bonus is the reflective elements on the shoulder straps and the front of the Uphill 16 backpack. Since the Shikoku Pilgrimage follows many roads and also passes through some dark tunnels, good visibility is very important, especially in poor lighting conditions.

The Uphill 16 backpack* from Vaude has performed very well overall. Initially, I was a bit worried that the straps and seams might give way since the backpack had become very full and comparatively heavy. However, this concern was completely unfounded. Neither adventurous passages through brush and undergrowth, heavy downpours, mud, nor my clumsiness could harm the backpack.

Nothing ripped or broke, and the dirt-repellent coating did its job with flying colors. In this respect, I was completely satisfied. The only downside is the one-sided holder for bottles. I used the other mesh pocket less than expected and would have preferred a second holder for drinks instead.

Travel Foldable Waterproof 25 Liter Backpack from Decathlon

If you need a bit more storage space for your gear, I can recommend the Travel backpack from Decathlon in the 25-liter version. The backpack weighs only an incredible 300 g, is waterproof, and can be folded up small.

Despite this, it offers a lot of storage space with a large compartment, two mesh pockets on the sides for drinks or small items, and an additional compression pocket. The backpack even has an integrated laptop compartment at the back. This compartment is also perfect for safely storing the pilgrim book and the route guide.

The straps of the Travel backpack are made of mesh material and breathable. A hip belt for better weight distribution and a chest strap are also present. The roll closure of the main compartment ensures that no water can penetrate the inside of the backpack, and if necessary, the storage space can be minimally expanded by not fastening the closures on the sides.

Given the low price, you can't go wrong with the Travel backpack from Decathlon*. I would still recommend packing a rain cover for the backpack, especially if you are pilgering during the rainy or typhoon season.

Belt I Fanny Pack from Deuter

As additional storage, I chose the Deuter Belt I fanny pack*. My most important pilgrimage items and everything that needs to be quickly accessible find their place in the Deuter fanny pack. The bag weighs only 110 g and has a volume of 1,5 liters.

I sometimes wore the bag around my waist and sometimes attached it to the backpack when I wanted more freedom of movement. The Belt I fanny pack is a practical companion for everything you want to reach quickly, such as cash, incense sticks, or a power bank.

Dry Sacks and Laundry Bag

To organize my entire gear, I like to use different colored dry sacks*. With dry sacks, everything stays dry, even if the waterproofing of the backpack gives way in the rain or something spills inside. With the different colors, I always know exactly what is in which bag.

All my clothes go into the green bag, except for the jackets, which are taken on and off throughout the day. The yellow one is big enough for the pilgrimage items, while the red one is extra padded and houses my camera and accessories.

I also always have a small laundry bag* with me when traveling. Since merino wool clothing is delicate, I wash it exclusively in the laundry bag. This reduces friction a bit, and the garments last longer. Also, this way, no socks get lost. Dirty laundry goes directly into the laundry bag, and the rest of my clothes stay clean.

Cosmetics and First Aid

For the pilgrimage route, I repackaged the most important cosmetics into small containers: body lotion, ointments, disinfectant, toothpaste, hand soap, sunscreen, and cooling gel for legs and feet. Additionally, I take a small first aid kit* that contains sterile compresses, plasters, and wound adhesive strips, as well as painkillers, allergy tablets, and a thermometer.

Alongside my electric toothbrush*, I also bring a small massage ball for muscle soreness, tape for blisters*, and my favorite earplugs* for snoring roommates. A small microfiber towel* is also always on my packing list for visits to hot springs and stays in hostels.

Pilgrimage Equipment

I will introduce the traditional clothing and everything you need for the spiritual aspect of pilgrimage in my detailed post on traditional pilgrimage equipment (planned).

In addition to the traditional gear of a pilgrim, a guidebook for planning and navigating is indispensable. I chose the Shikoku Japan 88 Route Guide* because it is the most comprehensive resource of all. The book contains useful planning information, some practical Japanese phrases, and very detailed maps of the entire Shikoku Pilgrimage route. Unfortunately, the book is only available in English.

You can get the latest version of the route guide most quickly and easily through Amazon Japan. Here's how:

1. Visit Amazon Japan*
2. Change the language in the top right to English
3. Create an account or log in
4. Add your address as an international delivery address
5. Add the book to your cart and proceed to checkout
6. Pay with a credit card of your choice

Shipping was surprisingly fast, and the book was in my mailbox after only a week. Unfortunately, the shipping costs are also correspondingly high. However, you still end up cheaper than if you buy the book from your local Amazon.

Technical helpers for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

In addition to suitable clothing and the right shoes for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, there are a few technical helpers like a power bank, charging cables, and adapters on my gear list for the pilgrimage. Since I take many photos for my blog and the Instagram Account of Inaka Japan while traveling in Japan, my camera and related equipment are also on my gear list. I have dedicated a separate section to the camera equipment below.

PowerbankXS with 10.000 mAh from Intenso

The most important technical companion during the pilgrimage was my power bank. I have been using the Powerbank XS* with 10,000 mAh from Intenso for years. Even though I use my smartphone less in nature than at home, the battery still drains quickly.

This is due to the cool temperatures, which drain the battery faster, and the fact that I navigate a lot with my smartphone. Google Maps and my GPS app both consume a lot of battery, so I had to recharge my smartphone multiple times throughout the day.

Fortunately, this was not a problem with the 10,000 mAh power bank from Intenso. In theory, the power bank can charge my smartphone up to five times. Realistically, I don't use that much battery, but I was prepared for emergencies and could also charge my headlamp or camera batteries on the go.

SIM card for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

To stay connected and make cheap calls in Japan, I also had a SIM card on my gear list for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. However, this is just a figure of speech, as I opted for an eSIM from Ubigi.

Instead of a physical SIM card, I simply downloaded the Ubigi app, installed the network settings for the eSIM on my smartphone, and purchased a data volume plan*. Since you can't make or receive calls with a Data Only SIM card, I also used my German SIM card and Skype-to-Phone for calling.

Another popular option among pilgrims are the SIM cards from Mobal*, which provide you not only with data but also a proper Japanese phone number for calling. This way, you avoid the hassle of using Skype and stay reliably connected on the pilgrimage route, allowing you to reserve guesthouses on the go.

Why you shouldn't skip getting a SIM card with internet and calling features for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which providers and options are available, and the respective pros and cons can be found in my post on eSIM or SIM card for the Shikoku Pilgrimage.

Forclaz HL500 Headlamp

For dark tunnels and when I'm out early in the morning or late at night, a rechargeable headlamp from Decathlon is also on my packing list. The Forclaz HL500 USB V3 headlamp* is impact- and splash-resistant, has various light modes, and shines with a brightness of up to 300 lumens. In normal mode, the battery lasts for a full 8 hours before the headlamp needs to be recharged via USB-C.

In rural Shikoku, there is surprisingly little street lighting, and it gets dark earlier than here. And then it gets really dark. If you plan long days or regularly want to start early, a headlamp is definitely recommended. I only used the headlamp a few times, primarily for dark tunnels to be better seen by cars.

Nevertheless, I would take a headlamp with me again next time. The pilgrimage route passes through many rural areas and stretches through mountainous regions where there is little to no civilization. Should you get lost in the forest or find yourself in an emergency situation, a headlamp can be a real lifesaver. Therefore, a headlamp should definitely be on your packing list.

Japanese USB Charger

Instead of a power adapter*, a few years ago, I simply bought a USB charger with multiple ports in Japan, as I only need to charge via USB anyway. That will go back into the luggage for the next trip to Japan. You can find chargers cheaply in the 100 Yen Shop or for a bit more money, if necessary, in the konbini.

If you're bringing along a bit more tech, such as a small laptop or notebook, a high-power USB-C travel charger* might be worth considering. This type of charger can power all your devices simultaneously, saving you time and reducing the need for multiple chargers in your luggage.

Camera Equipment for Pilgrimage

For the Shikoku Pilgrimage, I thought a lot in advance about how to take great photos on the go. At first, I considered leaving my camera at home, but that wasn't really an option. The camera had to come, but without being a hassle. Therefore, it was even more important to me to reduce the weight of the camera equipment as much as possible while storing everything as conveniently as possible and keeping it accessible at all times.

Panasonic Lumix DMC-G81

‍My Panasonic Lumix DMC-G81* has been accompanying me to Japan since 2020. The Lumix is protected against splash water and dust. This is particularly practical in Japan, where it rains a lot in spring and is very humid in summer. The splash water protection allows for close-up photos of hot springs and hells in Beppu or Unzen, which I could only take with a normal camera with a very guilty conscience.

So it was clear that the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G81 was the right camera for the Shikoku Pilgrimage. It endured plenty of rain, dirt, sand, and even snow over the 1,000 km journey. The Shikoku Pilgrimage was no problem for it, and now it’s just waiting for its next deployment in Japan.

The batteries of the Lumix DMC-G81 last me about a day, sometimes more, sometimes less. Therefore, I also have two spare batteries* and a good USB-C charger* on my packing list.

Panasonic 14 mm F2.5 II Prime Lens

I have several lenses for my Lumix camera. However, I often use the kit lens that came with the camera. The Lumix G Vario 12-60 mm F3.5-5.6 lens* impresses with rich colors, good sharpness, image stabilization, and splash water protection. For Shikoku, however, the kit lens was a bit too big and heavy.

So I opted for the Panasonic 14 mm F2.5 II Prime Lens*. This lens is a wide-angle prime lens. It is more light-sensitive than the kit lens, but in my opinion, slightly less sharp and the colors are a bit less vibrant.

However, the prime lens is extremely light and compact at just under 2 cm and 55 g – the perfect lens for the pilgrimage. The lens was heavily used during the pilgrimage: it regularly encountered rain, branches, and lots of dirt. Nevertheless, it still works like new. The price-performance ratio of the Panasonic 14 mm F2.5 II prime lens is perfect.

Capture Clip from Peak Design

For easy storage of my Lumix camera, I chose the Capture Clip from Peak Design*. The Capture Clip is a simple yet ingenious way to securely and readily attach any camera. The Capture Clip from Peak Design consists of a holder that can be attached to backpack straps, bags, or belts, and a plate that is screwed into the camera’s tripod mount.

I had the Capture Clip from Peak Design on my wish list for a long time, but the high price had put me off. Since I only heard positive things from photographer friends and all the cheaper alternatives had mixed reviews, I finally bit the bullet and ordered the Capture Clip from Peak Design for Shikoku.

I certainly do not regret the investment. The Capture Clip has proven to be very practical. I could securely attach my camera to the backpack strap, keeping it readily accessible at all times. Unlike a camera strap around the neck, I didn't get neck pain and nothing dangled around. The Capture Clip* kept everything securely in place even while hiking.

For day trips and longer periods without a backpack, I also got a set consisting of a camera strap* and a hand strap* from Peak Design. Thanks to an anchor system, you can quickly and easily switch between the two. Unfortunately, it is also not cheap but of high quality, and the functionality is convincing.

Memory Cards & Card Reader

For sufficient storage space, several memory cards are also on my gear list. I prefer to use SanDisk Ultra 128GB MicroSDXC memory cards*. They are compact, durable, and offer a lot of storage capacity for little money. So far, none of the cards have broken, and unlike other memory cards, I have never had file errors.

To transfer photos on the go, I also brought a small card reader*. This way, I can transfer photos from the memory card directly to my smartphone or via USB to a computer and back them up.

Miscellaneous

For the flight and to make calls on site, I had Bluetooth headphones with me. However, I left the headphones at the hostel when I sorted my luggage after a week of pilgrimage. The same fate befell the charger for my toothbrush, which luckily lasts over a month without charging.

I also discarded camera filters and a lens hood. I should have kept the latter, as the lighting conditions, especially on the coast, were not easy for photography. I also said goodbye to the German sunscreen at the hostel, as Japanese sunscreen is much more effective and pleasant.

Nylon Repair Kit

Originally, a repair kit was not on my packing list for the pilgrimage. However, I will definitely include one in my backpack next time. I repaired small holes and loose seams with sewing kits from hotels or, in an emergency, temporarily fixed them with tape. Special nylon repair patches* work much better for holes in shoes, rain jackets, functional clothing, or coated materials. The patches are waterproof, self-adhesive, and can be easily cut to the right size.

RFID-Blocking Travel Wallet from Amazon Basics

An absolute luxury item is the RFID-blocking travel wallet* from Amazon Basics. In addition to the passport, all kinds of cards, cash, and small items fit in it. The Osamefuda also fit perfectly here and can be stored safely.

For the next Shikoku pilgrimage, however, I would take a dry sack or a Ziplock bag instead, as the travel wallet was too heavy and bulky in the long run. The travel wallet is practical for regular trips where you don't have to be as strict with luggage or when you're traveling with your family and want to keep all important documents in one place.

For Emergencies

Just in case, a loud emergency whistle is also in my luggage. Sections of the Shikoku Pilgrimage Route are very remote, and if something happens to you there, it is difficult to attract attention. A rain cover for the backpack (included with the Vaude Uphill) is always handy for heavy rain.

What Not to Include on Your Gear List

When packing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage, try your best to leave your worries at home. The fear of forgetting something important or the habit of taking something "just in case" are the most common causes of overpacking.

Take only what you think you will really need and use daily. Otherwise, there is a high probability that you will not use it and end up carrying unnecessary weight. The right balance between minimalism and necessity is crucial to make your pilgrimage as pleasant as possible.

I tried to follow this principle, and it worked well for me. There were only a few small items that I sent back or left at the hostel in Tokushima. If you have overpacked or forgotten something, don't panic; you can send items home or buy equipment on the Shikoku Pilgrimage if necessary.

Proper Preparation for the Shikoku Pilgrimage

Packing for the Shikoku Pilgrimage requires careful planning and preparation. With my complete gear list, I hope to provide you with helpful guidance so that you have everything you need without carrying unnecessary weight. I have linked a sample gear list at the end of the post!

The Shikoku Pilgrimage is not only a spiritual journey but also a physical challenge. With the right preparation in advance, you can fully concentrate on the experiences and impressions of the pilgrimage. Learn everything about the Shikoku Pilgrimage Route, the best travel time for Shikoku, the stages & duration of the pilgrimage, and the 88 temples of the Shikoku Pilgrimage Route.