Walk the historic Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Imperial Route, following in the footsteps of Japanese emperors and aristocrats.
Cultural Heritage
The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Imperial Route and the villages along the way are rich with heritage and history.
Rural Village Experience
Stay in traditional local ryokan, minshuku and guest houses and immerse yourself in peaceful rural villages.
Enjoy a Rest Day Onsen
Enjoy a rest day mid walk to further explore Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine or simply soak in an Onsen in a lovely Onsen village.
Sacred Temples
This route takes in two of the Grand Shrines of the Kumano Kodo, allowing you to visit both Hongu Taisha and Nachi Taisha.
Natural Wonders
The Kumano Kodo is also a stunning nature walk through Japanese forests and with lookouts across countless mountain tops and valleys.
Overview
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Day by Day Itinerary
On day one you’ll make your own way from Osaka to Ki Tanabe where you’ll have a scheduled pre-walk check-in and collect your maps, then a short local bus ride to the trailhead at Takajiri. On the afternoon of day 1 it’s a short afternoon hike to Takahara.
Walking; 4km, 2-3 hours
Meals; Traditional Japanese Dinner
Stay; Takahara area
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Whats Included
Included
Expert local guides
6 Nights Accommodation
Breakfast and Dinner Daily
Maps and a Personalised Itinerary
Completion Certificate
Not Included
International Flights
Travel Insurance
Personal Expenses
Lunches
Kumano Kodo Trail Video
Kumano Kodo Accommodation
Traditional accommodation along the Kumano Kodo offers pilgrims an authentic and welcoming experience, blending cultural heritage with comfort. Pilgrims typically stay in ryokan or minshuku (family-run inns) that often feature tatami-matted rooms and futon bedding, though many now also offer Western-style beds to suit different preferences. One of the most cherished aspects of these stays is the warm hospitality of the hosts, who greet guests with genuine kindness and care. These accommodations provide not just rest, but a meaningful connection to the people and culture of the Kumano region.
Kumano Kodo Meals
One of the highlights of walking the Kumano Kodo is the opportunity to enjoy local meals. These home-cooked meals are often a spread of several small dishes, beautifully presented and made with fresh, seasonal ingredients. Typical meals include rice, vegetables, grilled fish, miso soup, and regional specialties, offering a rich and varied taste of local cuisine. Due to the set-menu nature of these traditionally made meals, catering to specific dietary requests can be difficult, so self-managing may be necessary for those with strict dietary needs.
Trail Route
Kumano Kodo Walking Guide
Grading: Challenging
The trail surfaces of the Kumano Kodo are as varied as the landscapes they traverse, adding both charm and challenge to the pilgrimage experience. Walkers will encounter everything from ancient stone-paved paths and moss-covered steps to dirt tracks winding through dense forests and narrow mountain trails lined with tree roots. In some sections, especially near villages or shrines, the trail may follow quiet rural roads or gravel paths. This diversity in terrain reflects the route’s long history and natural setting, requiring a moderate level of fitness and good footwear. The ever-changing surfaces keep the journey engaging and highlight the trail’s harmonious blend of natural beauty and human craftsmanship.
Kumano Kodo Client Experience
Our clients consistently say the best parts of the Kumano Kodo packages are the rich history woven into every step of the trail, the stunning and varied landscapes—from ancient forests to sacred shrines—and the opportunity to savor authentic local food. They also appreciate the warm hospitality of the hosts who make each stay memorable, the convenience of baggage transfers that allow for a light and enjoyable walk, and the personalized support we provide through planning their journey, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable experience.
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Similar Trips
6-Day Kumano Kodo Self-Guided Walking Package
The 6-day Kumano Kodo package offers a rich journey along one of Japan’s most sacred pilgrimage trails, tailored for travelers short on time. Skipping the rest day, it still covers key highlights—ancient forests, historic shrines, and scenic paths. Enjoy local stays, traditional meals, and daily luggage transfers for a comfortable and culturally immersive experience.
Explore sections 1 to 5 of the scenic Shin-etsu Trail with our 6-day self-guided walking package. Follow the ridge between Nagano and Niigata through beech forests, mountain vistas, and tranquil countryside. Enjoy traditional pension stays, luggage transfers, detailed trail notes, and delicious local meals that showcase regional Japanese cuisine.
Experience the beauty of the Shin-etsu Trail with our 8-day self-guided walking package, covering sections 1 to 5 along the Nagano–Niigata ridge. Enjoy serene beech forests, sweeping mountain views, and rural charm, plus a scenic walk up Kosuge. The trip includes traditional pension stays, luggage transfers, trail notes, and locally sourced Japanese meals for a rich cultural and culinary journey.
