Walk the Kumano Kodo – Autumn 2026

Arrive in Osaka and meet your guide at your hotel. Please enjoy a welcome dinner with your group.

Travel by private bus from Osaka to the entrance of the Kumano Kodo.From Takijiri Oji, the gateway to the Kumano Kodo, the trail to the plateau is a sacred path embraced by clear streams and forests. Enjoy approximately 4 hours of an inspiring hike.

Stay overnight at “Kiri no Sato Takahara” on the plateau.

*Enjoy breathtaking views from the mist-shrouded sky. Kirinosato Takahara is exclusively yours. Please deepen your bonds with your fellow travelers.

•Walking distance: 4.1 km

•Elevation gain: 250m of ascent and 100 m of descent 

The 9.2km stretch from Takahara to Chikatsuyu is a popular route along the Kumano Kodo where nature and human activity harmonize.

Passing through mountain villages, you'll follow the footsteps of ancient pilgrims while enveloped in the scent of cedar forests. Remnants of tea houses along the way and breathtaking viewpoints deepen the travel experience, while the warm village scenery and human warmth of Chikatsuyu greet you at the end.

After walking, take the dedicated bus to Kawayu Onsen, embraced by the great nature of Kumano. Dig into the riverbed of the clear Otō River and you'll find natural hot springs bubbling up. Enjoy open-air baths that blend seamlessly with the river. The charm lies in the seasonal scenery and the blessings of the hot springs.

•Walking Distance: 9.2km

•Elevation gain: 310 m of ascent and 330 m of descent 

The path from Hosshinmon- Oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha and Oyunohara the most sacred route on the Kumano Kodo, often called the “Path of Prayer.” Amidst lush forests and rural landscapes, surrounded by birdsong and the rustling wind, you walk in quiet contemplation. Since ancient times, countless pilgrims have walked this path to offer prayers to the Kumano deities. The final destination, Kumano Hongu Taisha, is a sacred site at the heart of the Kumano Sanzan, drawing deep devotion. Its majestic shrine buildings and serene grounds purify the hearts of visitors. The journey culminates in a profoundly moving experience at the former shrine site, Oyunohara, where the massive torii gate and magnificent landscape evoke a sense of timelessness. The origins of Kumano Hongu Taisha trace back to ancient times, with tradition stating that the gods descended upon “Ōyunohara,” the confluence of the Kumano, Otonashi, and Iwata Rivers. Rooted in nature worship, pilgrimages to Kumano by imperial family members and nobles flourished during the Heian period, spreading the faith nationwide.

＊Those who have walked the Camino de Santiago can receive a certificate of achievement at Kumano Hongu-kan and have the opportunity to celebrate becoming a “Dual Pilgrim” by striking a drum. This Dual Pilgrim Program is a deeply meaningful initiative connecting the spiritual journeys of Spain and Japan. It celebrates shared values of introspection, perseverance, and pilgrimage to sacred sites. Completing both the Camino de Santiago and the Kumano Kodo is officially recognized. Please be sure to inform those who have walked the Camino de Santiago to bring their certificate to Japan.

By dedicated bus to Kawayu Onsen

•Walking Distance: total 7.5 km

•Elevation gain: 190 m of ascent and 460 of descent 

Hike from Ukegawa over the Kogumo Pass to Kowase. After the walk, take a dedicated bus to Kawayu Onsen for hot springs. The path from Ukegawa over the Kogumo Pass to Kowase is a tranquil route within the Kumano Kodo where you can deeply feel nature and history.

Climbing the lush mountain trail, the pass offers a panoramic view of the Kumano mountains. Stone-paved paths and ancient Jizo statues evoke the spirit of pilgrims of old, while the gentle countryside scenery soothes the soul as you descend into the village. Enveloped in the colors of each season, this enriching hiking course allows you to feel the deep prayers of Kumano and the blessings of nature with your whole being.

By dedicated bus to Kawayu Onsen

•Walking Distance: total 12.0 km

•Elevation gain: 670 m of ascent and 690 of descent 

The ascent and descent takes at least 30 minutes.In the afternoon, stop at Oji Beach and walk along Koya Slope.

Enjoy the magnificent ocean views of the Kumano Sea.Transfer by private bus to Kii-Katsuura Hotel Urashima

Depart the hotel at 9:00 AM for a journey through Kumano's magnificent nature.

First, head to the famous Kumano River boat trip. Glide leisurely downstream for about 90 minutes on the river used by Kumano pilgrims since ancient times. Enjoy a moment feeling timelessness, surrounded by mountains and strange rocks reflected on the water's surface and the sounds of birds. After disembarking, visit the sacred main hall of Hayatama Grand Shrine and experience the atmosphere of prayer at the heart of Kumano faith.

Then, travel by bus to Kamikura Shrine. Climbing the steep stone steps takes at least 30 minutes, but the sheer power of the giant Gotobiki Rock and the breathtaking view of Shingu town below are truly spectacular. In the afternoon, stop at Oji Beach to gaze upon the majestic sea of the Kumano Nada while being soothed by the sound of the waves.

Finally, walk the ancient path of Koyazaka, concluding your journey along a scenic route woven by sea and mountain. It is a day where nature, faith, and history resonate together, leaving a lasting impression on your heart.

Take the dedicated bus to Daimon-zakaEnjoy hiking Daimon-zaka Pass, Nachi Grand Shrine, and Nachi Falls. Take the dedicated bus to Kii-Katsuura Hotel Urashima

Daimon-zaka is a beautiful stone-paved slope at the entrance to the Nachi Mountain pilgrimage route. Walking along the cedar-lined approach, you'll feel enveloped by the aura of ancient pilgrims and the pure air. Beyond the pass, the vermilion-lacquered shrine buildings of Kumano Nachi Taisha stand majestically. The solemn atmosphere and the awe-inspiring sight of Nachi Falls will move your heart. Boasting Japan's highest waterfall drop, Nachi Falls is truly the symbol of the Kumano faith. This is a deeply moving hike through a mystical land where nature and the gods resonate together.

•Walking Distance: total 3.2 km | 4 hours

Traveling through the Kii Peninsula to Kyoto by chartered bus　

Stops include Hashikui Rock, Senjojiki, and Sandanbeki.

Return to Kyoto by chartered bus. After checking into the hotel, dinner will be a farewell party.

The tour ends after breakfast. Your guide will be available to offer suggestions and assistance with any further adventures you may wish to have while you are in Japan!