Description
Like ancient pilgrims did, you walk every step along the route from Takijiri-oji to Nachisan
8 DAYS | 7 NIGHTS
Challenge | Discover | Fulfil
Overview
Kumano Kodo ‘Nakahechi’ Adventure
Guided walk along the Nakahechi pilgrimage route
Journey to the southern region of Japans Kii Peninsula, an ancient and mysterious land where pilgrimage and spiritual training has occurred for centuries.
You will walk every step (literally) of the Nakahechi pilgrimage trail from Takijiri-oji, into the mountains and on to Nachisan. This unique journey is ideal if you want to walk the Kumano Kodo without skipping a single step. Hiking the Main Trail, plus linking Kogumotori-goe, and Ogumotori-goe sacred trails, an adventure of 90km. Ideal for completionists who prefer to walk.
This fully guided (2 guides) walking journey takes you to all 3 Grand Shrines of Kumano, Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha and Hayatama Taisha. You will also visit ancient sacred sites including Gotobiki-iwa boulder and Oyunohara, with its Torii Gate standing 34m tall, it’s the largest in the world.
Enjoy walking with just a daypack and have your main luggage transferred daily to your overnight accommodation. At each mountain village you will stay in varying traditional-style accommodation, dine on lovingly prepared meals, and soak in onsens.
Dual Pilgrims and adventure seekers, come with us and immerse yourself in 1000 years of Japanese culture and history.
Itinerary
Day 1 | Welcome to Tanabe
Welcome to Japan and the beautiful autumn colour that awaits. Your Kumano Kodo ‘Nakahechi’ Adventure begins today.
If travelling with our Big Heart Adventures guide from Australia, you will travel from Osaka Kansai Airport by train to Tanabe. If travelling separately, we can assist you in coordinating any plane and train transport you require pre-tour.
Upon arriving in Tanabe you will be greeted by our guiding team. Our Japanese guide lives in Tanabe and this afternoon he will provide a casual walking tour of Tanabe’s beach precinct, shrine, and historical landmarks, so please try to arrive by lunch.
Your accommodation tonight is located only a short walk from Kii-Tanabe Station.
Tonight we all enjoy dinner together at a local restaurant nearby in the lively Ajikoji district.
Meals Included: Dinner
Walking Distance: up to 3km
Day 2 | Walk Takijiri-oji to Chikatsuyu
This morning we send our main luggage ahead and travel by bus to the Nakahechi trailhead behind Takijiri-oji. We take the passage into the sacred mountains and hike 4km to the Takahara Village and its panoramic views of the Hatenashi mountain range.
We start the Main Trail at an altitude of 100mm above sea level. We climb steeply to 400m through native and planted forest, passing an outcrop of large boulders and a cave called Tainai-kuguri, where pilgrims tested their faith by crawling through the narrow void.
After lunch we continue along the Main Trail, up into the mountains and on to Hiki-gawa River. We climb the Hashiori-toge Pass where the small Gyuba-doji statue is located. This statue shows Kazan, one of the first abdicated emperors to pilgrimage to Kumano, sitting on a horse and cow. Also, there’s an optional steep side trip to the site of the legendary Three-Fold Moon before arriving at your overnight accommodation.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Distance: 16km
Day 3 | Walk Chikatsuyu to Hosshinmon-oji
A big day of hiking is front of us as we make our way towards Hongu.
Your days trek begins on paved roads between Chikatsuyu village and Kobiro-oji, before entering the forest. We visit ancient Cedar Trees’ at Tsugizakura-oji and climb and descend a series of passes along the Main Trail. Following a small stream we trek to a statue of Jagata Jizo, this statue is said to protect you from evil fatigue-inducing spirits.
It’s packs down upon reaching Hosshinmon-oji, the outermost entrance to Hongu Taisha’s sacred precinct. From here we board the local bus and travel to our accommodation in Yunomine Onsen, a 40 minute scenic drive.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Distance: 19km
Day 4 | Walk Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu
You wake up having relaxed and bathed at Yunomine Onsen township overnight, ready to trek to Kumano Hongu Taisha today. Fittingly, this town is an integral part of the 1000 year old Kumano pilgrimage tradition. Past pilgrims performed purification rituals in the piping hot mineral waters at Yunomine Onsen in preparation to worship at Kumano Hongu Taisha.
Joining the Main Route at Hosshinmon-oji our trek downhill to Hongu is a mixture of forest trails and isolated mountaintop villages with panoramic views. Just before reaching our day’s destination we take a side trail for a spectacular view over ancient Oyunohara and the majestic giant Torii gateway.
Here in Hongu, you will receive your Dual Pilgrimage Certificate if you have completed the Camino in Spain and this section of the Kumano Kodo. Please let us know if you are eligible so that we can make prior arrangements before travel. For Dual Pilgrims a drum ceremony will be arranged for you at the Taisha.
Tonight’s accommodation is at nearby Kawayu Onsen township. This afternoon is a chance to rest and relax in the wonderful outside onsens here.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Distance: 8km
Day 5 | Walk Hongu to Koguchi
From Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine our journey continues down to the giant Torii Gate, gateway to Oyunohara. This sacred precinct is rich in history and a place to reflect. Continuing on foot, we follow the mighty Kumano-gawa River to Ukegawa and on to the Nakahechi Kogumotori-goe Trail section.
We trek into forested mountains, climbing and descending over passes as we begin our two day hike to Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine. At the highest point of the trail today you are welcomed with beautiful panoramic views of the 3600 peaks of Kumano.
Your accommodation tonight is downhill at Koguchi nestled in a valley by the Akagi-gawa River.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Distance: 19km
Day 6 | Walk Koguchi to Nachisan
Today we journey to Kumano Nachi Taisha in Nachisan. This final section of forest trail is regarded as the most challenging along the Nakahechi Route and involves multiple passes at an altitude above 800m. Named Ogumotori-goe, todays trail is less travelled due to its demanding nature, but the beautiful landscape and views make for a spectacular walk.
Entering Nachisans sacred precinct late afternoon is the perfect backdrop to a fulfilling and tiring day of trekking. Given the duration of todays walk, we return to Nachisan tomorrow for a tour of the sacred precinct and waterfall.
Having walked every single step from Takijiri-oji to here is a great achievement and enjoyed by not many Kumano Kodo walkers these days. From here it’s a short bus ride to our coastal accommodation in Katsuura.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walking Distance: 19km
Day 7 | Nachisan, Katsuura and Shingu
(optional rest day – full day or half day)
This morning we drop by Katsuura’s fish markets on the wharf, then return to Nachisan. Nachisan is a spiritual and picturesque village, with the Three-storied Pagoda, waterfall and mountains as it’s backdrop. Returning here this morning allows time to explore and reflect unrushed at the sacred precinct and Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall. This worshipped waterfall is the tallest in Japan with a drop 133m high and a crest 13m wide.
Boarding a local bus it’s a short drive to Shingu. Here, we walk to Gotobiki Iwa boulder, said to be the site where the Kumano deities first descended. An ancient stone staircase takes you to this sacred place with panoramic views over the Pacific Ocean. Then we walk to the 3rd Grand Shrine, Hayatama Taisha, to complete the Kumano Sanzan.
Returning to Kii-Katsuura, we will assist you with purchasing train tickets to onward destinations for the next day.
Today is also an optional rest day. Katsuura is a great place to relax by the ocean or visit the cave onsen. You can choose to spend the full day here, or join us for just the morning or afternoon.
Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner
Walking Distance: 6km
Day 8 | Farewells and departures
Following breakfast we say our goodbyes and best wishes for ongoing journeys. Your Kumano Kodo ‘Nakahechi’ Adventure tour ends here in Katsuura.
If travelling to Australia, you can travel to Osaka Kansai Airport by train with our Big Heart Adventures leader guide.
Meals Included: – Breakfast
Walking Distance: –
Need To Know
Inclusions
Travel
- Luggage transfers daily to accommodation (1 bag per person)
Meals
- All meals and snacks as per the itinerary
- B x 7 | L x 5 | D x 7
Accommodation
- 1 night ‘Western Style’ room in Tanabe on first night
- 6 nights ‘Japanese Style’ twin share while on the trail
(Accommodation will change based on each days finishing location) - An onsen or bath is offered at each night’s accommodation
Activities
- Professionally guided and walking every step along the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route
- Nature connection activities on trail
- Visit the Kumano Sanzan (all 3 Great Shrines)
- Gotobiki Iwa boulder
- Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall
- Oyunohara Torii Gate
- Drum ceremony for Dual Pilgrims
- Katsuura Fish Markets
Safety
- 2 Guides – our local guide (bilingual) and a guide from Australia
- Group First Aid kit and emergency communication device
- Leaders certified in Remote Area/Wilderness First Aid
- Qualified Bushwalking Leaders
Environmental
- Small group guided experience
- Leave No Trace principles
- Invitations to connect with nature
Big Heart Extras
- Big Heart Adventures designed ioMerino hiking top
- Big Heart Adventures designed head sock
- Big Heart Adventures journal
- 4 pre-departure training walks and or training program (trip specific)
- Discounts for pre-departure purchases at Exurbia
- A charity contribution to our Give Back program
Exclusions
- International and domestic flights
(speak to us about the benefits of packaging your flights with us) - Travel arrangements to the start and from the end of the tour
- Local bus tickets during the tour (budget AUD$60)
- Comprehensive Travel Insurance (compulsory)
- Meals and drinks not stated on itinerary
- Items of a personal nature
Trail Notes
We grade the overall walking on this itinerary as MODERATE-CHALLENGING
(see our grading system)
This grading is provided as general advice only, and is based on our assessment and also feedback from past participants. Please consider your level of fitness and experience in regard to this rating, and if you’re unsure please contact us for more information
Takijiri-oji to Chikatsuyu
Distance: 16km
Elevation Gain: 1025m
Elevation Loss: 850m
Chikatsuyu to Hosshinmon-oji
Distance: 19km
Elevation Gain: 1025m
Elevation Loss: 975m
Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu
Distance: 8km
Elevation Gain: 200m
Elevation Loss: 475m
Hongu to Koguchi
Distance: 19km
Elevation Gain: 700m
Elevation Loss: 700m
Koguchi to Nachisan
Distance: 19km
Elevation Gain: 1250m
Elevation Loss: 950m
Gotobiki Iwa boulder
Distance: 1km
Elevation Gain: 100m
Elevation Loss: 100m
Why choose us
10 REASONS TO WALK WITH US
Realistic Itineraries
we want you to love and be inspired by the Kumano Kodo. This tour itinerary is well-designed and realistic, allowing you to complete the full itinerary ….. we don’t over sell and under deliver
Be Fulfilled
this itinerary is designed to maximise your awe and leave you fulfilled. You will visit the 6 most-sacred sites of the Kumano (Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine, Oyunohara, Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall, and Gotobiki Iwa boulder) all unique and too magnificent to miss. We’ve planned this itinerary so you get the full experience and time to relax ….. you won’t leave feeling unfulfilled
Flexibility (2 guides)
our departures have 2 experienced guides (a local Japanese guide and an Australian guide). Having 2 guides means we can better cater for group dynamics and individual needs. Factors such as walking pace, injuries and incidents can mean changes to the itinerary become necessary, and if there was only 1 guide then these changes will impact on your expectations and your level of enjoyment ….. avoiding this is why we always have 2 guides
Safety
our wilderness trained guide from Australia carries a comprehensive group first-aid kit, satellite communication device, and safety equipment. In addition, safety procedures are in place, and constant communication is undertaken with local emergency services. Local Japanese guides generally only carry basic first-aid and rely on their mobile phone for emergency communications, and there isn’t mobile phone coverage along sections of this trail ….. so for your safety, we always have an Australian guide accompany our local Japanese guide
Nature Connection
we want you to feel de-stressed and re-energised. So, our guides are also nature facilitators with skills to immerse you with your surrounds. Not only do we safely guide you and share our knowledge, we also provide invitations for you to slow down and connect deeper with nature whilst walking the trail (included activities such as an introduction to Shinrin-yoku ‘Forest Bathing’ ) <learn more about Forest Bathing here> ….. we’re pioneers of hiking with deep nature immersion
Group Fitness
we want you to succeed and maximise your enjoyment, so pre-tour training walks, training programs, and group chats online are provided leading up to your walking tour (included as part of the tour price). These will assist you to practice on terrain that you are likely to encounter, meet your guides and other group members, ask questions on what to expect, receive advice on the trail, travel, and the destination, and gauge your level of fitness. Many people underestimate the difficulty of walking this trail and end up under-prepared and unfulfilled ….. so we invest in your preparation
Travel in Japan
maximise your time and see more of Japan. Our in-house travel specialists can assist you with rail passes, accommodation, flights, add-ons and insurance. Package your Kumano Kodo walk with us and save stress, time and money
Timing
we go at the best time of the year for comfortable walking conditions. We can’t guarantee perfect weather everyday, but you can book with confidence
Meaningful Moments
learn about spiritual history and traditional Japan. Our local bilingual guide will bring your Kumano Kodo experience alive ….. a guide book, phone App, or international guide just can’t do this as well as a local guide
Small Groups
a maximum of 10 only on each departure. Meaning, it’s better for the environment and you won’t feel like you’re just a number in the crowd
Packing List
A detailed packing list is provided prior to travel
- Gear you will need:
- Rainproof jacket and pants
- Daypack (35 litre approx.)
- Water bottles/hydration kit (min 2Ltrs)
- Personal medications
- Clothing suitable for walking that is quick drying and breathable – consider merino/synthetic clothing
- Sun protection such as hat, sunglasses and suncream, insect repellent
- Sleeping attire
Accessibility
Requires following bush trails carrying a day pack with some steep sections. Accommodation and transport includes stairs. Please talk to us about your accessibility needs before booking
Details
- Type: All Genders Guided
- Adventure: Kumano Kodo ‘Nakahechi’ Adventure
- Destination: Kii Peninsula, Japan
- Group Size: Max 10 plus 2 guides
Fitness Requirement
- A good level of fitness is required to walk the trails on this trip
- You will be walking pack free (day packs only)
- You will walk on a variety of surfaces on undulating trails including some steep inclines/declines and rocky trail
- Our longest walking day is 19km and we walk up to 6 consecutive days on this adventure
- Trip rating: Moderate-challenging
Important Information
- *Eligible Past Traveller Discount applies if you’ve travelled with us on any of our guided tours which were 5 days duration or longer
- Read terms and conditions before booking
- Itinerary and price subject to change at any time
- Travel Insurance is recommended. Get a quote from Covermore or Go Insurance
- Note weather, group member welfare and a range of circumstances outside our control can mean last minute changes to our itinerary are necessary once on tour. Detours may be in place
- A very limited number of single rooms are available on a first-come basis
- Please contact us before booking any flights. Depending on flight arrival and departure times extra nights accommodation may be required at own expense
- A minimum number of travellers are required for this trip to depart so ask someone to join you. If minimum numbers aren’t reached, we may decide to still go or we will provide a full refund
- Training walks start 6 weeks prior to departure. We recommend you attend these walks to maximise your enjoyment and for the groups welfare when away
- Rooming is twin share on the trail
- Japanese style accommodation and food is traditional on the Kumano Kodo. Sleeping upon futons placed on the floor and a variety of cuisines is offered exclusively for the region. Not all dietary requests may be catered for and must be declared at the time of booking. Please note that dietary requirements cannot be added while travelling on this tour
- If you have additional needs please connect with us, we’re committed to being inclusive and accessible
Adventure Leaders
Our experienced and knowledgeable local guide (bilingual) and a guide from Australia are with you for the journey (2 leaders). Our team is qualified, experienced and super friendly. We will ensure you have a fun and connecting adventure. Leaders are certified in Remote or Wilderness First-Aid. All leaders carry a group first-aid kit, emergency communications device, emergency documentation and equipment.
