Ohenro as Adventure Tourism
Adventure Tourism (AT) is a form of experiential tourism centered on the natural environment, physical challenges, and cultural exchange. Within this framework, the 'Shikoku Henro' (Ohenro), a unique Japanese pilgrimage culture, holds significance beyond that of a typical tourist resource and possesses the potential to attract global attention. In this article, I would like to discuss the significance and potential of Ohenro as adventure tourism.
1. The Physical Challenge of Pilgrimage
Ohenro is a traditional religious practice of visiting the 88 temples in Shikoku associated with the monk Kobo Daishi (Kukai). The entire route spans approximately 1,200 km, and if traveled on foot, it takes 40 to 60 days. This distance and duration carry a strong element of physical challenge, providing participants with a sense of accomplishment and an opportunity for self-transformation, much like mountain climbing or long-distance trekking. In recent years, cycling and motorcycling pilgrimages have also become widespread, allowing it to be reinterpreted as a diverse form of 'adventure'.
2. A Journey of Spirituality and Self-Transformation
The value provided by adventure tourism lies not only in physical activity but also in the inclusion of spiritual growth and self-transformation. On the Ohenro, one can face oneself while walking through nature and engage with faith and philosophy. This 'inner journey' offers deep healing to those suffering from the stress and loneliness of modern society. For international travelers in particular, it becomes a unique cultural adventure where they can experientially understand Zen and Buddhist values.
3. Interaction with Local Communities
The local culture of 'Osettai' (offering hospitality) is deeply rooted in the Ohenro. The experience of receiving food, drinks, and lodging from local residents along the way connects tourists with the local community. This is not merely consumption-based tourism, but a practice of two-way exchange and coexistence, embodying the 'engagement with the local community' that is a core tenet of adventure tourism. Such cultural elements make Ohenro a globally unique tourist resource.
4. Sustainability and Regional Revitalization
The Ohenro route spans the entirety of Shikoku, encompassing diverse landscapes from urban areas to rural villages, mountainous regions, and coastal areas. The maintenance of pilgrimage paths and the repurposing of lodging facilities can lead to the revitalization of local economies and the utilization of vacant houses. Furthermore, as a sustainable tourism model, re-evaluating Ohenro within the context of adventure tourism becomes an important strategy for regions facing population decline and depopulation.
5. Potential for Internationalization
In 2016, the 'Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage Cultural Landscape' was designated as a Japan Heritage, and momentum is building for its registration as a UNESCO World Heritage site. Globally, the Camino de Santiago in Spain has already become a successful example of a UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage route, and Ohenro could similarly become a hub for international pilgrimage tourism. For inbound travelers, it represents an extremely attractive form of adventure tourism where they can experience Japan's nature, culture, and spirituality all at once.
Ohenro is a comprehensive adventure tourism resource that combines physical challenge, spiritual transformation, interaction with local communities, and sustainability. By transcending traditional religious frameworks and redefining it from the perspectives of tourism, education, and international exchange, its value will be further enhanced. Reconstructing Ohenro as adventure tourism holds the potential to become a key pillar of Japan's tourism policy.
Author: Tsunehiro Hayashi (Professor, Faculty of Management, Okayama University of Science)
For the Japan Tourism Agency's adventure tourism related page, click here
. For the Kibi Open Innovation Association website, click here
For the Setouchi City Tourism Association website, click here
For the Japan Adventure Tourism Association website, click here