Kumano Kodo self-guided walking 6 days

The quintessential Kumano Kodō experience on the classic Nakahechi route.

Experience all of the best parts of the classic Nakahechi route on our best-loved offering. Suitable for hiking enthusiasts, enjoy village-to-village walking with 5 hikes of 2-7 hours. Eligible for Dual Pilgrim certification!

Kumano Kodo self-guided walking 6 days

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June 2024
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Tour details

Kumano Kodo self-guided walking 6 days
x1 traveller
USD 0
Single room additional charge
USD 560
TOTAL
USD 0

If you would like to do multiple tours in one trip or have a question about any of our tours, do not hesitate to contact us with the button below.

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  • Duration: 6 days
  • Trip level:
    Intermediate
    Level
  • Availability: All year (snow falls occasionally from December to March)
  • Type:Self-guided
    Level
  • Price: USD 1,495(Price per person, based on 2 travellers sharing a room)
Highlights
  • Enjoy the most enchanting sections of the Kumano Kodō on this, our best-loved tour
  • Visit all three of Kumano’s grand shrines: Hongū Grand Shrine, Nachi Grand Shrine, and Hayatama Grand Shrine
  • Take in Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest single-drop waterfall
  • Earn credentials to receive Dual Pilgrim status
  • Spend more time in the serene nature of the Kumano Kodō, including the Ōgumotorigoe Pass
  • Enjoy delicious, homemade meals with fresh, local ingredients each day

The Kumano Kodō is an ancient pilgrimage located on the remote Kii Peninsula, its mysterious atmosphere further amplified by the high rainfall and resulting mist that hangs over the mountains and valleys. With a history going back more than 1,000 years, the Kumano Kodō has long been a pilgrimage walked by people from all levels of society, ranging from common folk to emperors. 

This ancient pilgrimage is made up of several trails, including the Nakahechi, Kiiji, Iseji, Kohechi, and Ohechi. Our 6-day Kumano Kodō self-guided tour is our best-loved Kumano Kodō offering and explores the classic Nakahechi route, including the Ōgumotorigoe Pass approach to Nachi Grand Shrine. 

Walk village to village as you take in the scenery provided by the Kii Mountains, believed to be a sacred location that serves as the home of the gods. Try your hand at shinrinyoku (forest bathing) and feel the serenity of the deep, forested walks and dreamy landscapes softly blanketed in fog. You will have ample opportunities to take in gorgeous mountain scenery, sample exquisite local cuisine, enjoy soaking in onsen hot springs to soothe you after a day of hiking, and visit all three of the Grand Shrines of Kumano. 

You’re supported by our team in Kyōto, our local Chikatsuyu office, and by our bespoke turn-by-turn walking instructions and topographical maps to guide you on your way, created by our team of hikers for you. 
Have you walked the Camino de Santiago? You can obtain Dual Pilgrim status on our Kumano Kodō tours, or earn credentials and obtain the status on your future Camino de Santiago trip.   

Daily luggage transfer is also available along the Kumano Kodo trail as an optional extra service. 

Download PDF itinerary

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What is included
5 nights at Japanese inns along the Kumano Kodō trail
5 breakfasts and 5 dinners
Round-trip train tickets from Kyōto or Ōsaka
Detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking directions
Topographical maps
Local support by telephone and at our Kumano Kodō branch
Our Preparing for Your Trip and Travelling in Japan guidebooks
What is not included
Flights
Airport transfers
Drinks and meals not included in itinerary
Local bus journeys which must be paid directly to the bus driver
Single room supplement(s) for solo occupancy
Daily luggage transfer
Itinerary

Tour itineraries are subject to change. We will inform you of any amendments as soon as we become aware of them.

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