Can I wear pilgrim clothing if I'm not Japanese? Absolutely!!

There are all kinds of traditions and conventions associated with the 1200-kilometer Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage, and the pilgrim’s garb is certainly one of them. However, as we become more alert about respecting other cultures and how to do so correctly, you might wonder whether or not you can wear the pilgrim’s garb if you’re not Japanese, religious, etc. In which case, let me assure you that the answer is a resounding YES

Of course, it is very important to stay respectful when making your way around the sacred spaces but anybody is welcome to take part in this journey regardless of cultural background, nationality, age, gender, religion, etc. In fact, wearing the traditional clothing can be incredibly beneficial–almost necessary–because locals will be able to identify you as a pilgrim. Consequently, they can offer osettai, which is the practice of supporting pilgrims along the way through small gifts like local fruits and light snacks

Now that we’ve cleared that up, the traditional clothing typically consists of a conical sedge hat (sugegasa), white jacket (hakui), thin stole wrapped around the neck (wagesa) and wooden walking staff (kongozue). White represents purity, innocence and equality of all before Buddha. That’s why many pilgrims dress almost entirely in white, but it is totally acceptable to wear the hakui over casual hiking clothes

Learn more about the Shikoku 88 temple pilgrimage: https://visitkochijapan.com/en/highlights/henro

Special thanks to @Larry Bates for letting us share his gorgeous photos at Kongofuku-ji Temple, which is the 38th stop along the pilgrimage, located at the southernmost tip of Shikoku Island! 

Larry completed a portion of the pilgrimage last year, which you can read more about here: https://m.facebook.com/story.php?story_fbid=pfbid022rCioW5FzvzEKHgJfJd2149WumaJT9mahKEFRQYNCWabDv1k5pkdnoDxr61MKmUTl&id=814903788605452