Shikoku, the smallest of Japan’s four main islands, is the site of the a pilgrimage trail established in 815 that winds past 88 temples. Since celebrations of the ancient route’s 1,200th anniversary were held last year, the 750-mile trail can be enjoyed in relative peace. One particular stop of note is the city of Matsuyama. It is home to several of the temples and the castle-like Dogo Onsen bathhouse, which at 120 years old is one of the country’s oldest natural hot-spring public baths. And a new Japan Rail pass, released to commemorate the 50th anniversary of the high-speed Tokaido Shinkansen, will make traveling between Tokyo and the island by train even easier this year. INGRID K. WILLIAMS