WorldPingAI is changing pilgrims' journeys, but sacred journeys have always adapted to new technology
WorldPingWhat happened
In 2025, two scholars of religion decided to make a multiday pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodō trail—an ancient route in Japan connecting Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples—guided by an artificial intelligence assistant.
Key facts
- In 2025, two scholars of religion decided to make a multiday pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodō trail—an ancient route in Japan connecting Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples—guided by an artificial intelligence assistant.
- Reported by Phys.org and published Thu, 08 Oct 2026 16:20:27 UTC.
Why it matters
Research findings and mission results set the evidence base that policy, funding and later discoveries build on.
What to watch next
- Peer review status and replication of the findings
- Mission milestones and next scheduled attempt
- Funding or policy decisions that follow
Sources
The original report was published by Phys.org. WorldPing does not claim that reporting — this page summarises and contextualises it.
Read the full report at Phys.orgFollow the story
Living hubs that keep updating as this story develops.