Looking Back in Time at the Shikoku Pilgrimage

Pilgrimage routes exist around the world and for centuries people have embarked on pilgrimages for religious training, self-reflection, or perhaps for an escape from their regular life. It is said that there are more than 200 pilgrimage routes in Japan, yet many have disappeared due to modernization and/or a lack of interest or upkeep. In recent years the Shikoku Pilgrimage – a 1,200 kilometre journey that circumambulates the island of Shikoku connected by eighty-eight temples and numerous other sacred sites – has been attracting more attention among people from around the world. Today there is a plethora of information available in English on how to best prepare for and to make this arduous, sacred journey, which is firmly connected to its “founder”, the Buddhist priest Kukai/Kobo Daishi. However, little is written in non-Japanese languages about the history, culture and stories of faith related to the Shikoku pilgrimage. In this talk, David Moreton will take everyone on a journey back in time to about 100 years ago to learn about the first Westerners who experienced this pilgrimage, faith-building and miraculous stories related to the Shikoku pilgrimage, and how this journey was promoted to the world so long ago.

During the drink reception there will be a performance by the Japanese music group Moon, Star and Sun.

Free but booking is essential at here