The Shikoku pilgrimage route consists of 88 official temples and numerous other sacred sites located around the island of Shikoku. There are some accommodation options for the pilgrims. However, there are only a few choices for low cost accommodation. Zenkonyado is an accommodation where the local residents or homeowners welcome Shikoku pilgrims to stay overnight for free or at a low cost. This is based on Shikoku Pilgrimage culture called Osettai.

 The aim of this paper is to clarify:

 1) The characteristics and problems of the housing spatial layout and management of the Zenkonyado;

 2) The needs and the challenges of the pilgrims; and

 3) The future direction of the Zenkonyado.

 Methodologies used are:

 1) Interview with the owners of the Zenkonyado;

 2) Measurement of the space and the equipment; and

 3) Survey questionnaire for the pilgrims.

 The study found that for Zenkonyado:

 1) Converting unoccupied houses is effective as it allows full use and utilization of unused rooms and facilities;

 2) Socio-cultural exchange was made easier and more convenient for pilgrims and Zenkonyado managers to take part in;

 3) Safety and privacy of the managers and the pilgrims are ensured; and

 4) A number of aging managers and the changing manners of pilgrims, who stay in Zenkonyado, are some of the issues that could possibly make continued operation of the accommodation difficult.