About The Shikoku Pilgrimage – Japan’s Sacred Trail by John Lander
– Evocative photographs of one of the world’s most famous pilgimages
– All 88 temples illustrated and discussed
– Includes accounts by former pilgrims
The Shikoku Pilgrimage on the island of the same name is one of the few circular pilgrimages in the world. At 1,200 kilometers in length, the trail includes 88 temples and passes through diverse countryside such as idyllic bamboo groves, deserted beaches and ordinary Japanese neighborhoods. There is a long tradition of pilgrimage in Japan, dating back at least to the time of the renowned monk, poet and philosopher Kobo Daishi (774-825) who is particularly associated with this trail. John Lander, long-time resident of Japan, author and photographer, has visited and recorded every temple in evocative images, as well as providing fascinating details about the origin of the trail and what the pilgrimage means to the thousands who undertake it every year. The pilgrimage is undertaken for many reasons – to have a time of reflection away from everyday life, as a spiritual journey or as a healing period after a traumatic life experience. Along the way, pilgrims will encounter ordinary Japanese people and learn to understand the custom of o-settai, or charitable giving
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Author Bio:
John Lander is a photographer and writer based in Japan. Having lived in Japan 30+ years with considerable knowledge about local culture, foods and his specialty: Japanese gardens. After teaching at Keio University and Tsukuba University for 25 years, John Lander turned to photography and writing travel features. At present, John is devoted almost exclusively to photography – specializing in Japanese gardens, quirky offbeat roadside attractions, onsen hot springs and Japanese festivals. Located near Kamakura on the outskirts of Tokyo & Yokohama he has easy access to both Shonan Beach and the bright lights of Tokyo. The newest book “The Shikoku Pilgrimage – Japan’s Sacred Trail” is being released September 2021. Other books on Japan include: ” World Heritage Japan” River Books, 2018, “Hidden Gardens of Japan” IBC, 2017 and “Offbeat Japan” 2017, IBC