kumano

The Kumano Kodo

The ancient Kumano region is nestled in the verdant mountains of Wakayama Prefecture and since time memorial this lush and rugged promontory has been though of abode of the gods and worshipped by the Japanese for centuries.

Walk the spiritual Nakahechi Kumano Kodo, soak in traditional Japanese onsen, consume the succulent local cuisine and interact closely with local Japanese people to glean an important insight into this amazing culture and at every turn fascinating people.

This is a small group tour of up to six people.

Refer to our Blog for More Info

Refer to our following blog articles for more information on:

Nanzenji temple (coming soon);
Sanmon-Gate (coming soon);
Castle Towns (about castles & castle towns on the nakasendo).

The Kumano Kodo

The ancient Kumano region is nestled in the verdant mountains of Wakayama Prefecture and since time memorial this lush and rugged promontory has been thought of as the abode of the gods and worshipped by the Japanese for centuries.

Walk the spiritual Nakahechi Kumano Kodo, soak in traditional Japanese onsen, consume the succulent local cuisine and interact closely with local Japanese people to glean an important insight into this amazing culture and at every turn fascinating people. Refer to our slideshow below for an idea of what walking through these mountains is like. To learn more about what this spiritual walking tour entails refer to our blog post on The Kumano Kodo.

This is a small group tour of up to six people.

Inclusions

A kaiseki dinner while entertained by Geisha - see below;
A night at a Japanese Ryokan Resort in Bessho Onsen - see below;
. Farewell dinner show at Mugen Style Restaurant in Tokyo - (or similar);
. Stay in traditional accommodation most nights of the tour;
. Soak in traditional Japanese baths after a day of walking/exploring Post Towns;
. Enjoy freshly prepared, mouth watering local Japanese cuisine;
Includes 11 nights accommodation; 12 dinners & 11 breakfasts;
. Get to know Japan by walking through the country side and meeting the locals!

Day Four Takahara

After the wonderful a sumptuous dinner experience, a soak in the huge bath and a hearty and delicious breakfast we head off to Tsugizakura-oji. The walk through the cedar forest is an amazing experience. The huge trees create a tranquil and distinctly fresh atmosphere. The air is fresh and crisp and the scenery as you pass along this steady up-hill trail is revitalising. This first short leg of the Kumano Kodo is a good precursor for the more challenging walking to come.

Dinner and breakfast at Takahara;
Pick-up any supplies at local store;
Bus to Takahara and Kumano Kodo trail head (approx 40min);
Visit local information centre;
Walk Takahara to Tsugizakura-oji

More info

Refer to our following blog articles for more information on:

Nanzenji temple (coming soon);
Sanmon-Gate (coming soon);
Castle Towns (about castles & castle towns on the nakasendo).

Day Five Tsukizakara-oji

After a breakfast we continue along the Kumano Kodo to Hongu Taisha. We cross over three mountain passes today, so there is a lot of walking and a lot of climbing ahead of us. The goal is to be at the top of the pass by lunch time in order to have enough time to explore Kumano Hongu Taisha. After enjoying the shrine we take a short bus ride to Yuminomie Onsen where will lodge for the night.

Dinner and breakfast provided by minshuku;
Walk from Tsukizakara-oji to Hongu Taisha;
Explore Hongu Taisha and bus to Yuminomie Onsen;
Lodge at onsen for the evening.

More info

Refer to our following blog articles for more information on:

Nanzenji temple (coming soon);
Sanmon-Gate (coming soon);
Castle Towns (about castles & castle towns on the nakasendo).

Day Seven Nachi Taisha

After breakfast at Yonomie Onsen we head off on the last leg of our Kumano Kodo pilgrimage headed for the spectacular Nachi Taisha. Even although the last part of the last leg is a long decent down to Nachi Taisha this is not an easy days walk, but the pay-off is huge. The shrine and waterfall are amazing. The food and onsen water revitalising and cleansing. Enjoy this last stop on the pilgrim trail, soak up every last drop of senerity before heading back your hectic daily life routine.

Breakfast in Yonomie Onsen;
Walk to Nachi Taisha;
Explore Nachi Taisha;
Accommodation at Nachi Taisha and Tour End;
AJ Travel Bureau will assist with your ongoing travels from Nachi Taisha.

More info

Refer to our following blog articles for more information on:

Nanzenji temple (coming soon);
Sanmon-Gate (coming soon);
Castle Towns (about castles & castle towns on the nakasendo).

Tour Dates

Tour Dates TBA

Tour Inclusions

7nights accommodation;
All Breakfasts & dinners on the Kumano Kodo;
Public transport while on the Kumano Kodo;
Transfer of your luggage as required;
>. Bilingual tour leader to make your journey hassle free and most enjoyable.

Tour Exclusions

International airfares;
Travel insurance;
. Lunches;
Alcoholic beverages;
Water not provided.

The Kumano Kodo