Live Your Best Lives
The Kumano Kodo is located in the southern part of the Kii Peninsula in Honshu, Japan. It is more than 1,000 kilometers long and spans the three prefectures of Wakayama, Mie, and Nara. Along the way, it includes many shrines and temples such as Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine scattered among the mountains, as well as 5 sections of ancient roads leading to these religious buildings.
The Kumano Kodo mainly refers to the following five routes: Kii Route (Watanabe-Tanabe), Kobe Route (Koyasan-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 70 km), Nakabe Route (Tanabe-Kumano Sanzan), Obe Route (Tanabe-Kushimoto-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 120 km), and Ise Route (Ise Jingu-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 160 km).
Many of these were designated as national historic sites in 2000 as the "Kumano Pilgrimage Routes," and in 2004 as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range" as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. However, the Kii Route was not included in this registration.
Located on the path of typhoons and weather fronts, it is one of the wettest regions in Japan.
The best time to travel is November.
Recommended tours:
Kii Route (Watanabe-Tanabe), Small Route (Koyasan-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 70 km), Middle Route (Tanabe-Kumano Sanzan), Large Route (Tanabe-Kushimoto-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 120 km), Ise Route (Ise Jingu-Kumano Sanzan, approximately 160 km)
Play time:
1 day
free
All day (Monday to Sunday)
The Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that have been used for over a thousand years. The trails connect three important shrines in the Kumano region: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. It is one of Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Sites and has great cultural and spiritual significance, being a center for Shugendo, a syncretic religion that combines elements of Japanese mountain worship, Buddhism, and Shinto.
Kumano Kodo is located in the Kii Peninsula, in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. The closest major city is Kyoto, which can be accessed by train or bus. Once in the region, you can reach the start of the trails by bus, taxi, or walking. Most trails are accessible from small towns like Kii-Tanabe or Shingu, where transportation options are available.
The Kumano Kodo trail is open year-round, but the best time to visit is in the spring (April-May) or autumn (October-November), when the weather is mild, and the scenery is at its most beautiful. Summer months (June-August) can be hot and humid, while winter months (December-February) can be cold and snowy, especially in higher elevations.
There is no general entrance fee for walking the Kumano Kodo trails. However, certain temples and shrines along the trail may charge a small fee for entry. These tickets can typically be bought on-site. Guided tours and shuttle services also have associated costs, and bookings can be made online or locally in the region.
While hiking the Kumano Kodo trails themselves doesn't require advance booking, it is advisable to book accommodations, guided tours, and transport services in advance, especially during peak seasons. A few weeks to a month in advance is recommended for accommodation and tours.
The Kumano Kodo trail system spans over 300 kilometers, with different sections taking anywhere from a few hours to several days to complete. A typical pilgrimage takes 3-5 days, depending on which route you choose. Many visitors explore specific sections, with the most popular being the Nakahechi route, which takes about 2-3 days.
Guided tours are available and are highly recommended for understanding the cultural and spiritual significance of the area. These tours are offered in various languages, including English, and can be arranged in advance. Audio guides may also be available at some shrines and tourist centers.
The Nakahechi Route is the most popular and accessible for those new to the Kumano Kodo. It takes around 3 days to complete, starting from Takijiri-oji and ending at Kumano Hongu Taisha. Another option is the Kohechi Route, which is more challenging and connects Koyasan with Kumano.
Night visits or light shows are not typically offered on the Kumano Kodo. However, there are special night tours that may include spiritual experiences such as meditation at the Kumano shrines. It's recommended to book these tours in advance.
The Kumano Kodo can be quite crowded during the peak seasons of spring (April-May) and autumn (October-November). To avoid the crowds, visiting during the winter months or early spring is recommended, especially weekdays.
There are basic facilities along the Kumano Kodo, including toilets, food stands, water refill stations, and rest areas at major trailheads and shrines. Shops offering souvenirs and local products can be found in towns along the route.
The Kumano Kodo trails are primarily rugged and mountainous, so they may not be suitable for elderly visitors or those with mobility challenges. However, some shorter sections are more accessible, and there are transport options available for those unable to complete the full trails.
Cash is widely used in the Kumano Kodo region, especially in rural areas. While some larger establishments may accept cards or mobile payments, it is advisable to carry enough cash for purchases and transportation.
There are various restaurants and small eateries in the nearby towns such as Kii-Tanabe and Shingu, offering local specialties like Kumano beef and fresh seafood. Several cafes also serve tea and light meals along the way.
Vegetarian options are available at some restaurants, though vegan and halal food may be limited. It's a good idea to check in advance or bring your own snacks if you have specific dietary needs.
Yes, there are souvenir shops in the Kumano Kodo region. Typical souvenirs include local crafts, Kumano brushes, Kumano tea, and wooden carvings. Religious items like charms and incense are also common purchases.
