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Overview
"Pilgrims Joe" welcomes Kumano Kodo pilgrims with the understanding and warmth that only a fellow pilgrim can offer. This older house is located in an isolated small group of homes on the outskirts of Koguchi village upstream of the Akagi-gawa River, nestled at the foot of a stone staircase at the base of Seizo-ji Temple. Next to the house is towering Momiji maple tree. There are two bedrooms, one Japanese style and other western. Guests share the communal facilities. It is a 10 minute walk from the central Koguchi settlement and the Kumano Kodo trailheads.
Born and raised in Tokyo, the owner (who lives nearby) fell in love with Koguchi after walking the Kumano Kodo. He draws on personal pilgrimage experiences to truly connect with guests' journeys. He is a "Dual Pilgrim" have also walked the Camino de Santiago in Spain.
The name of the guest house was inspired by the nearby temple. Visiting Seizo-ji Temple means paying respects toward the Western Pure Land of Buddhism. Sensing a connection between modern pilgrims and those of old, the owner named this guesthouse "Jo" (浄), meaning "pure."
Frequently Asked Questions
Within a property, room configurations, sizes, and furnishings will often vary from one guest room to another. Because many of these regional lodges have been built, expanded, or updated over generations, no two rooms are completely identical. One room might feature a distinct layout, different views, or unique decorative accents compared to the room next door. Embracing these shifts in style and layout is a core part of the journey, offering an authentic window into the distinct regional charm and hospitality of the trail. Additionally, pictures of meals shown are for reference only and actual meals vary with seasons, rotation and meals plans set by your hosts.
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