Shikoku88 Equipment

I’m a strong advocate of ultra-light backpacking.   So I’m trying to keep my pack as light as possible for the 20 mile days I’ll be doing in Shikoku.

Here is my probable equipment list:

Shoes:  Mizuno Elixer4 Running Shoes  (Roomy toe box, very light, quick drying)

Golite Jam Backpack (very light)

Ultralight Backpacking Tarp

Backpacking Down Sleeping Bag

Z-Rest Camping Pad (cut to 3/4 length)

Golite ChromeDome Umbrella (very light, sun/rain protection)

Storm Rain Jacket (from Golite)

“Down” Windproof Jacket (super light but very warm)

Nylon Hiking Pants

(2) Nylon Shirts

(2) Spandex/Compression Shorts (underwear for hiking)

Thermal Underwear

(3) Sox  (nylon and/or poly/wool blends)

Nylon Cap

Capilene Top (light and warm)

Headlamp

Simple 1st Aid Kit

Journal & pens

Waterproof Stow Sacks

(1) Golite Aluminum Pole and (1) Wooden Walking Stick:  for pitching tarp

Toothbrush, small soap, small camp towel, glasses

………………

And that’s it!    In list form, it still looks like a lot.   The walking stick, of course, isn’t really necessary…. but apparently it’s a traditional part of the Shikoku 88 Temple pilgrimage…  And knowing how the Japanese love tradition, I thought I’d join in and do it right.   I’ll also be wearing white shirts, and maybe a white vest over everything… again this is a tradition of the pilgrimage.  Originally, white signified the pilgrims readiness for death… as centuries ago, this was quite a dangerous trip and many pilgrims died.   It’s pretty safe now    But the tradition continues as a symbol of dedication and pure intention.