Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Hiking Journey

🌿 Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Day 6: Conquering the Great Ogumotori Pass - Defeating the Ultimate Challenge!

At 7:00 AM, we set off from Kokuchi Nature House, feeling both excited and nervous as we prepared to tackle the legendary Ogumotori Pass (おおぐもとりごえ)!
This route spans 14.5 kilometers, with a total ascent of 1,260 meters and a descent of 930 meters. It's no wonder it's known as the "toughest challenge" of the Nakahechi route! 💪
After a grueling 5 hours and 40 minutes, we finally completed the entire journey, and the sense of accomplishment was overwhelming! ✨

🏯 Nachi Taisha

After conquering the Ogumotori Pass, the majestic Nachi Taisha came into view. As one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano, it enshrines the deity Kumano Fusumi no Okami and is revered as a sacred site for prayers for love and family harmony. 💖

🕊️ Seiganto-ji Temple

Next to Nachi Taisha is the first temple of the Saigoku Kannon Pilgrimage. The solemn atmosphere here brings peace to the soul, allowing one to feel the power of prayers offered over a thousand years. 🙏

🌊 Hirou Shrine & Nachi Waterfall

A must-visit spot is Hirou Shrine, which has no main hall but instead venerates the magnificent Nachi Waterfall! Standing at 133 meters, it is Japan's tallest waterfall. The roaring sound of the water and its imposing presence are awe-inspiring, and standing nearby, you can feel its spiritual energy. 💦✨

🌸 Daimonzaka

Finally, we descended along Daimonzaka, an ancient stone-paved path flanked by cedar trees, resembling a time-traveling tunnel. Upon reaching the last of the Ninety-Nine Oji Shrines, the Tofuke Oji, we couldn't find the stamp station. We later discovered a notice indicating it had been moved 50 meters ahead to the Daimonzaka Tea House. We made it to the bus stop near Ichinono Elementary School just in time for the 3:16 PM bus to Nachi Station.

🛖 By 4:00 PM, we arrived at our accommodation for the night, Oyado Hana. Holding the nine stamps we collected today, our hearts were filled with joy and gratitude. This day was not just a physical challenge but also a spiritual journey. 🌟

📖 Fun Fact: The History of Ogumotori Pass

The "Ogumotori Pass" has been an essential mountain path for pilgrims traveling between Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha since ancient times. Due to its long distance and steep slopes, it is considered the most challenging section of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route. For over a thousand years, countless pilgrims have traversed this path with unwavering faith, seeking to pay homage to the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. Walking the same ancient trail today, one can almost feel a spiritual connection with those who came before, sensing their resilience and devotion. 💫

✨ Today's Highlights

✅ Successfully conquered the 14.5km Ogumotori Pass
✅ Visited Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji Temple, and Hirou Shrine
✅ Walked along Daimonzaka
✅ Collected nine stamps
✅ A perfect day, ready for a good night's sleep! 😴