Walk the mighty Kumano Kodo trail, a centuries old pilgrimage route riddled with history, stunning scenery and spirituality among the mountainous Kii Peninsula. Walk through incredible forests, quiet valleys and past cascading waterfalls and uncover the rich ancient history and charming rural life. Registered as a UNESCO World Heritage route (one of two in the world), this sacred network of routes showcases the best of rural Japan and offers guest houses, homestays and lodgings for an all-encompassing authentic experience. The entire trail generally takes 5 days, however, there are many different options from 1 day to multi-day that encompass the ...

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  1. Best of Kumano Kodo Mountain to Sea Trek 5D4N (Inc. Ogumotori-goe), Private Guided

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    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.

    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

    Osaka or Kyoto, Japan
    Step into the ancient allure of Old Japan, where the Kumano Kodo invites you to traverse its storied paths. Forge your way through its ...
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    From A$4,760.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  2. Kumano Kodo Grand Traverse Mountain to Sea 6D5N (Inc. Kogumotori-goe & Ogumotori-goe), Private Guided

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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 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.  

    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

    Osaka or Kyoto, Japan
    Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. ...
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    From A$5,210.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  3. Luxury Kumano Kodo Mountain to Sea & Ama Divers 9D8N, Guided

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    Route: Kyoto - Kumano Kodo - Ise Shima - Osaka

    Journey to the world-famous Kumano Kodo on foot from mountain to sea and immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating Japanese sacred traditions of Ama diving. Starting from Kyoto, this fully guided tour is the ideal discovery of the mountainous Kii Peninsula blessed with a rich pilgrimage tradition, isolated hot springs, and welcoming countryside hospitality. Your experiences also include an unforgettable culinary experience at a Michelin star restaurant in Kyoto.

    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 Kumano Kodo hiking route is well marked with sign posts. It weaves through the mountainous Kii Peninsula, forested landscapes and occasional villages. This walking journey has a mix of easy, moderate and hard day walks. The moderate Kogumotori-goe -pass rewards trekkers with the amazing view from Hyakken-gura. The Ogumotori-goe is a challenging walk with long ascents and descents, but it's believed to be the most memorable challenge of the Kodo. You'll walk from village to village covering up to 65.5 km and have an opportunity to visit two Grand Shrines (Kumano Hongu Taisha & Kumano Nachi Taisha).

    The best accommodation along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is hand picked for this package, including a luxury Ryokan (a member of Relais & Châteaux member) in Kyoto, a traditional Ryokan run for generations since the Edo era in the picturesque hot-spring village of Yunomine Onsen, a private island hot spring resort and the luxurious Japanese Ryokan sitting along cliffs and overlooking the Pacific Ocean.

    All meals are included for the duration of the walk. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine.

    Your luggage will be transported all the way through, so you only need to carry a day pack to enjoy your daily exploration. Round trip train tickets and all transportations (taxi & local bus) during the Kumano Kodo hike are also included.

    Luxury Kumano Kodo Mountain to Sea & Ama Divers is the ultimate discovery of Kumano replete with natural beauty and rich history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.

     

    Kumano Kodo walk can be customised to suit your requirements, e.g. changing guided to self guided.

     

    Orientation for Kumano Kodo Walk

    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.We arrange daily luggage transfer. Your luggage will be transferred to the next accommodation. You only need to carry a daypack for the walk.

     

    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

    Kyoto, Japan
    Route: Kyoto - Kumano Kodo - Ise Shima - Osaka Journey to the world-famous Kumano Kodo on foot from mountain to sea and immerse ...
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    From A$13,980.00 Per Person, Twin Share
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  4. Best of Kumano Kodo Mountain to Sea Walk & Cruise 5D4N, Private Guided

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    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.

    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

    Osaka or Kyoto, Japan
    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 ...
    + More
    From A$4,440.00 Per Person, Twin Share
    View Details
  5. Ultimate Luxury Mie Ise Shima Walk 3D2N with Amanemu, Guided

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    This itinerary is a perfect extension after Kumano Kodo walking tours. Kumano Kodo walk concludes in Kii-Katsuura. 

    Embark on a journey of discovery in Japan's spiritual heartland with a three-day, two-night walking experience combining Mie Ise Shima with accommodation at an ultimate luxury resort, Amanema. Walk in the footsteps of past generations who have made the pilgrimage here to witness some of the country’s most sacred sites.

    The Shima Peninsula is located in central Japan's Mie Prefecture. Beautiful nature, a flourishing fishing industry and delicious local cuisine are just a few of the attractions of a destination steeped in history. Immerse in the culture and traditions of this spiritual region as you take in some of the Ise Jingu's most beautiful and profound locations, including the 3.9 km trail to the summit of Mt Asama and Ise Jingu, or Ise Grand Shrine, considered one of the most sacred sites in Japan with a history dating back to the 3rd century.

    Amanemu, a luxury ryokan-inspired retreat, lies on the shores of Ago Bay. Mineral-rich waters from a natural hot spring allow you to discover traditional onsen bathing, with a private bath in each of the immaculate suites and a variety of wellness treatments offered at the onsite spa. Delicious Japanese cuisine embraces local produce, including fresh seafood and the renowned Matsusaka Wagyu beef.

    This crafted program includes two nights of supreme luxury accommodation at Amenemu and some of the unique and authentice experiences such as climbing the summit of Mt. Asama, enjoying an excluisve private tour of Ise Jingu Grand Shrine, cruising the Ago Bay at sunset to explore the majestic coast lined with an intricate maze of little islands, and meeting an ama diver and learn more about their unique lifestyle while enjoying a delicious seafood barbecue.

    Connect with the sacred energy of an ancient and spiritual destination, rich in historic, cultural and religious significance. Explore ancient shrines and temples, rejuvenate in mineral-rich spring water, dine on the freshest local produce prepared with meticulous care, and enjoy an escape from reality that will stay with you forever.

    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

    Nagoya, Kyoto or Osaka, Japan
    This itinerary is a perfect extension after Kumano Kodo walking tours. Kumano Kodo walk concludes in Kii-Katsuura.  Embark on a journey of discovery ...
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    From A$5,410.00 Per Person, Twin Share
    View Details
  6. Classic Kumano Kodo Inn to Inn Walk 4D3N, Private Guided

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    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.

    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

    Osaka or Kyoto, Japan
    Pack Free. Best Accommodation In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn with a local professional guide on enchanting sections of the Kumano ...
    + More
    From A$2,750.00 Per Person, Twin Share
    View Details
  7. Kumano Kodo Luxury Walk In Comfort Mountain to Sea 3D2N, Private Guided

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    Leave behind the ordinary and join an eccentric journey that fuses spirituality, adventure, and nature's grandeur in one experience. As you set your foot on the world-famous Kumano Kodo Trail for 3 days with your private guide, feel the potent presence of past samurai warriors and emperors—the trail is beyond a pilgrimage route, it's a portal to the past, to enlightenment, and to intimacy with nature.

    Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. The trek begins at Kii-Tanabe station with an orientation from local staff, followed by a bus ride to Kawayu Onsen, where you can immerse yourself in the hot spring and relax. Savour a Japanese tantalising cuisine and rest for the night at the Kawayu Onsen Fujiya. Proceed the next day to Hosshinmon-oji to begin the walk on the Kumano Kodo trail with a local private guide. Enjoy a private guided tour of the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine and all of its marvels before boarding a bus to Katsuura Onsen on the coast. Afterward, be ferried to Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima seaside resort on a private island to enjoy a Kaiseki set menu for dinner and spend the night. Take a ferry back to Katsuura and proceed to Daimon-zaka by bus. With a private local guide, explore the Nachi shrine-temple complex, and walk on the Daimon-zaka slope to behold the stunning Nachi Falls, which is the tallest in Japan. Explore Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine and the 5th-century Seiganto-ji temple before boarding a bus back to Kii-katsuura, and a train to Kyoto/Shin-Osaka, marking the end of the trip.

    Recline and enjoy the nights of the trip at two premium accommodations, Kawayu Onsen and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima, along the trail set at the backdrops of fascinating nature. Enjoy Onsen hot springs, ensuite outdoor and indoor baths, themed rooms, and river views. Help yourself to Japanese palatable cuisines, including seafood sourced from the Pacific Ocean.

    The adventure includes two day private guiding and two nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis, with one night at Kawayu Onsen Fujiya and the other night at Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Luggage transfer services are included and pre-walk orientation is provided.

    A dignifying spiritual odyssey and nature exploration awaits your arrival on the Kumano Kodo. Stroll along its well-carved paths, savour mouth-watering Japanese cuisine and learn the rich history of Old Japan on this 3-day sojourn into the past.

    Note: Bus and train tickets are not included. You can use vending machines to purchase.

    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

    Osaka or Kyoto, Japan
    Leave behind the ordinary and join an eccentric journey that fuses spirituality, adventure, and nature's grandeur in one experience. As you set your foot ...
    + More
    From A$2,500.00 Per Person, Twin Share
    View Details