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Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. For 6 days, navigate its diverse wonders and conquer challenges, including traversing the Kogumotori-goe and the formidable Ogomotori-goe passes. Embark on a journey from mountain peaks to the serene sea, encountering the captivating Kumano Nachi Taisha and the thundering Nachi Falls.
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Your conquest of Nakahechi begins at Takijiri-oji, leading you through mist-kissed Takahara, into the embrace of forested mountains en route to Chikatsuyu, and onwards to the tranquil Tsugizakura-oji. Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, surrounded by breathtaking nature. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation to soothe your tired muscles. Hike the Kogumotori-goe and descend to the tiny village of Koguchi. Brave the challenging Ogumotori-goe Pass, leading to the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.
Seek refuge in thoughtfully selected accommodations for a serene escape. Absorb tranquil atmospheres amidst enchanting panoramas. Indulge in the soothing embrace of traditional Japanese hot springs and savour the enchanting flavours of the freshest seasonal cuisine sourced from the Pacific Ocean.
This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking.
Grab the perfect opportunity to explore, conquer, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Kumano Kodo. Heed the call of discovery and experience the past of Old Japan on this 6-day adventure.
Note: Bus and train tickets are not included. You can use vending machines to purchase. Estimated total cost for the bus tickets during the tour is 5,400 yen per person.
Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis and 5 day private guiding service. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking.
Step into the ancient allure of Old Japan, where the Kumano Kodo invites you to traverse its storied paths. Forge your way through its heart, Nakahechi, conquering the Ogumotori-goe pass while meandering amid enchanting villages and discovering concealed shrines and waterfalls. Experience the humbling presence of the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and the power of Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall—completing your 5-day adventure of the Kodo’s best wonders from mountain to sea.
Your captivating journey begins in Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, and then head towards Kii-Tanabe, your entrance to the captivating Kumano Kodo. Begin your conquest of Nakahechi at Takijiri-oji. Ascend to the mist-draped Takahara, then explore forested mountains leading to Chikatsuyu and then to Tsugizakura-oji. Venture on a trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, immersed in a forested symphony. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation. Conquer the difficult Ogunmoroti-goe trail, visit the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and see Nachi-San, the tallest waterfall in Japan. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.
After each exciting day of exploration, return to your carefully chosen accommodations to unwind—Kiri No-Sato Takahara Lodge, Yunomine Onsen's Ryokan, and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Experience peak serenity surrounded by otherworldly vistas. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese hot springs and the bewitching flavours of the finest Pacific Ocean-sourced seasonal cuisine.
This adventure includes 4 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace.
Experience an unforgettable pilgrimage through time and tradition. Cherish the memories of enchanting villages, hidden shrines, and the majestic Nachi Falls, each a testament to the rich tapestry of Old Japan. Come along and let the echoes of ancient footsteps linger in your heart.
Pack Free. Best Accommodation
In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn with a local professional guide on enchanting sections of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route weaving through forested mountains and small villages towards the Grand Shrine of Hongu. Spend three nights at Japanese inns in Takahara, Nonaka and Yunomine Onsen areas, and enjoy home-cooked dinners featuring local seasonal ingredients.
The Kumano Kodo is the world's only UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage route besides the Camino de Santiago. Once a sacred pilgrimage reserved for emperors and samurai for over 1200 years, the world-class Kumano Kodo hiking route is today open to all walkers and natural wanderers.
The best accommodation along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is hand picked for this package, with three nights in Japanese style inns/boutique lodges. All rooms have ensuite (private toilet).
Most meals are included for the duration of the walk. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine.
Your luggage will be transported each day to the next accommodation so you only need to carry a daypack to enjoy your daily exploration.
This itinerary focuses on popular walks on the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo over 4 incredible days. Get ready for this unforgettable village-to-village trek.
Departure Dates:
Departs daily year round on request.
Orientation
The local staff will give you an orientation of the tour when you arrive at Kii-Tanabe station. The staff will supply you with maps, bus timetables and brief you on your itinerary. The staff will explain cultural elements such as how to use a bath and purchase bus tickets if need be as well as answer any last minute questions.
Dual Pilgrim
This walk is qualified for "Dual Pilgrim". We provide official Dual Pilgrim Credential - a type of passport for pilgrims. It is used to collect stamps along the trail as a record of the walk. There are two sides, one for the Kumano Kodo and one for the Way of St. James.Please read the details in the section of Dual Pilgrim at the bottom of this page.
Why Choose Us
- We provide official English map (the best map).
- We provide official Dual Pilgrim Credential.
- We offer a pre-walk briefing at our local representative’s office.
- Unlike other operators using traditional Japanese inns/guesthouses that have communal bathrooms and toilets, we offer the best accommodation along the trail. All our rooms have private toilets.
- We arrange daily luggage transfer. Your luggage will be transferred to the next accommodation. You only need to carry a daypack for the walk.
Pack Free.
In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn on enchanting sections of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route weaving through forested mountains and small villages towards the Grand Shrine of Hongu. Spend three nights at Japanese inns in Takahara, Nonaka and Yunomine Onsen areas, and enjoy home-cooked dinners featuring local seasonal ingredients. Your luggage will be transported each day to the next inn so that you can enjoy exploring the world-famous Kumano Kodo, Japan's ancient pilgrimage route on foot independently over 4 days.
Add A Guide
You can choose to have a local guide for your first day. The local guide will explain this significant historical area as well as provide detailed information on the trail and general track advice. You are then well equipped to continue on your way for the remainder of your self-guided walk. Additional cost: $250 per person.
Feel the pulse of nature and a strong connection to the past as you embark on a 5-day hike along the Kumano Kodo, a trail that whispers secrets of ancient Japan. Carve your own way through its core, Nakahechi and conquer the Ogumotori-goe pass, weaving through alluring villages and discovering hidden shrines. Your journey crescendos at the mystical Kumano Nachi Taisha, where the majestic Nachi Falls roars in applause.
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Traverse evolving landscapes, setting the stage for your pilgrimage in Takijiri. Ascend to the mist-draped Takahara, then explore forested mountains leading to Chikatsuyu. Venture on a trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, immersed in a forested symphony. Continue your venture from Koguchi to Nachisan, conquering the demanding Ogumotori-goe trail. Revel in the breathtaking view at Ogumotorigoe Pass, reaching Nachi-san with its majestic waterfall and sacred shrines. Retreat to Yunomine Onsen (or Kawayu Onsen) and Katsuura Onsen for hot springs, delectable seafood, and an authentic Kaiseki dining experience. Finally, conclude your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.
After each exciting day of exploration, return to your carefully chosen accommodations to unwind—Kiri No-Sato Takahara Lodge, Yunomine Onsen (or Kawayu Onsen)'s traditional Japanese Ryokan, and an accommodation in Katsuura Onsen offering the Pacific Ocean views. Experience the peak serenity surrounded by otherworldly vistas. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese hot springs and the bewitching flavours of the finest Pacific Ocean-sourced seasonal cuisine.
This adventure includes 4 nights of accommodations in premium destinations on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is taken care and you can focus on walking with a daypack. The walk is qualified for "Dual Pilgrim" & official Dual Pilgrim Credential is provided in the info pack at the pre-walk orientation.
Take part in a bewildering journey that stands as a true testament to the wonders of ancient japan. Embrace the unfolding ethos of Japanese shrines, and revitalise with soothing spring hot springs as you forge a deep connection to the spiritual tapestry of the Kumano Kodo over 5 enchanting days.
Experience an otherworldly zen on a fascinating 5-day time travelling adventure on the Kumano Kodo Trail—a symbol of Japan’s glorious past surrounded by nature’s elegance. Tread the path of pilgrims from the mountains to the sea at your pace, visit all three Kumano Grand Shrines, and explore the serene Kumano-gawa River on a traditional cruise—the amazements are never ending!Experience an otherworldly zen on a fascinating 5-day time travelling adventure on the Kumano Kodo Trail—a symbol of Japan’s glorious past surrounded by nature’s elegance. Tread the path of pilgrims from the mountains to the sea at your pace, visit all three Kumano Grand Shrines, and explore the serene Kumano-gawa River on a traditional cruise—the amazements are never ending!
Kick-off at Kii-Tanabe where your will meet your expert guide briefing you the tour to Takijiri to walk on the Nakahechi trail of the Kumano Kodo route. Dine and rest at Takahara mountain settlement before venturing into its forested trail to arrive at Chikatsuyu, bypassing Oji shrines. Rise in Chikatsuyu the following day and make your own way to Hosshinmon-oji by bus to tour the Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. Arrive at Yunomine Onsen from Hongu Taisha shrine and repose in a traditional Ryokan inn. Ride a traditional flat-bottom wooden boat on the Kumano River to Shingu, where the Kumano Hayatama Taisha shrine and Kamikura-jinja shrines await your gaze. Visit Daimon-zaka to see the Nachi-shrine temple complex and Nachi Falls, the highest in Japan. Wrap up the trek at Seiganto-ji temple to Kii-Katsuura and then to Kyoto or Osaka.
Spend nights of the trips at four choice accommodations: Kiri-no-sato Takahara Lodge, Chikatsuyu Garden House, Ryokan AduMaya, and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Leverage their amenities such as hot spring baths, indoor and outdoor ensuite bathrooms, and relaxing cosy beds with views of surrounding natural beauty. Yield to the temptations of authentic Japanese cuisine.
The adventure package includes 4 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. Luggage transfer services are included. A thoughtfully crafted itinerary tailored to your explorative pace ensures you savour the region's best sights, meals, and sounds.
A trek of a lifetime! Embark on an epic spiritual sojourn along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, a path where samurai and emperors once trod. Learn the rich heritage of the region, savour delectable cuisine and make memories for years to come.
Experience an otherworldly zen on a fascinating 5-day time travelling adventure on the Kumano Kodo Trail—a symbol of Japan’s glorious past surrounded by nature’s elegance. Tread the path of pilgrims from the mountains to the sea at your pace, visit all three Kumano Grand Shrines, and explore the serene Kumano-gawa River on a traditional cruise—the amazements are never ending!
Kick-off at Kii-Tanabe station with a tour briefing from local staff and take a bus to Takijiri to walk on the Nakahechi trail of the Kumano Kodo route. Dine and rest at Takahara mountain settlement before venturing into its forested trail to arrive at Chikatsuyu, bypassing Oji shrines. Rise in Chikatsuyu the following day and make your own way to Hosshinmon-oji by bus to tour the Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. Arrive at Yunomine Onsen by bus from Hongu Taisha shrine and repose in a traditional Ryokan inn. Ride a traditional flat-bottom wooden boat on the Kumano River to Shingu, where the Kumano Hayatama Taisha shrine and Kamikura-jinja shrines await your gaze. Visit Daimon-zaka to see the Nachi-shrine temple complex and Nachi Falls, the highest in Japan. Wrap up the trek at Seiganto-ji temple and take a bus to Kii-Katsuura and then to Kyoto or Osaka.
Dates or itinerary don't fit?We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.