As you may already know, when you do the Shikoku Pilgrimage, one of the “traditions” is to have a book with you (or sometimes even a large scroll) that you get signed by a beautiful calligraphy of the temple’s name at each temple where you stop. This is not unique to the Henro pilgrimage by the way.
Usually, it’s a monk who does it, but not always apparently. As the picture was taken in Zentsu-ji, the largest temple of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, maybe they have extra-staff helping. Unless nuns in Zentsu-ji don’t have to shave their heads. I have no idea.
In any case, know that when you visit any of the 88 Shikoku Pilgrimage temples, you too can have a book signed. It will cost you 300 yens if I remember correctly (I haven’t had it done in quit a while, I forgot).
Interesting.
I may try and get a few if we return for a trip there someday. 😉
I hope you return here someday.
I hear that several pilgrimages have similar traditions though, so you may try other temples not on Shikoku if they’re part of a pilgrimage.
I wish I had a better sense for learning languages. Japanese is so interesting.
You can get it done at pretty much all shrines and temples and you can also get a Goshuin. It is a special book for your travels. Some are special like this one for the pilgrimage but I have a couple for just temples and shrines I visit. Haven’t used it since last spring as I have been too busy to visit temples and shrines. Also have a new post about it someday.
Yes, it’s true that you can have it done in many many temples.
My Henro Pilgrimage book hasn’t received any new signature in quite a while too, time to change this.