The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Trail is a UNESCO World Heritage site renowned for its historical significance and natural beauty. Among its many sections, the Daimonzaka to Kumano Nachi Taisha route stands out as a short yet culturally rich journey. This segment offers a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heritage, surrounded by breathtaking landscapes.
Stone steps at Daimonzaka (Photo Credit: Varts)
Total Distance: Approximately 2.2 kilometres (1.37 miles)
Estimated Time: 2-3 hours
Access: Public buses run daily from Kii-Katsuura Station to the Daimonzaka parking lot. Taxis are also available.
The Daimonzaka slope itself is approximately 600 meters (0.37 miles) long, featuring 267 cobblestone steps. The entire walk from Daimonzaka to Kumano Nachi Taisha, including visits to the shrine complex and Nachi Falls, covers about 2.2 kilometers (1.37 miles). The elevation gain is modest, making it accessible to most walkers.
Onlyluxe Travel arranges luggage transfer and walkers can enjoy a pack free walking. Self guided or private guided tours are available. Discover our collection of Kumano Kodo Walking Holidays.
Starting Point: Daimonzaka
Daimonzaka, meaning "large gate slope," is the starting point of this journey. This ancient cobblestone staircase is flanked by towering Japanese cedars, cypress, camphor trees, and bamboo groves. At the base of the slope, you'll find the Meitosugi, or "husband and wife cedar trees," whose intertwined roots symbolize unity and harmony.
Visitors can also rent Heian-period kimonos at the Daimonzaka Chaya for a unique photo opportunity. Facilities such as toilets, vending machines, and walking sticks are available at the Daimonzaka parking lot bus stop, ensuring a comfortable start to your trek.
Tip: Bring water and snacks, as there are limited options along the trail.
The Ascent
The climb up Daimonzaka is a serene experience, with the natural canopy providing shade and a sense of tranquillity. As you ascend, the cobblestone path leads you closer to the spiritual heart of the trail. The slope ends near the Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine complex, but the journey continues with an additional 20-minute climb to the shrine grounds.
Seiganto-ji Temple Pagoda at Nachisa (Photo Credit: LEOCHEN66)
Seiganto-ji temple near Nachi Falls (Photo Credit: lemaret pierrick)
Arriving at the Nachisan Sanctuary
The arduous descent concludes at Nachisan, a sacred mountaintop sanctuary that has been a focal point of nature worship since the 4th century. The area provides a striking visual reward for completing the demanding Ogumotori-goe trail.
Kumano Nachi Taisha and Seiganto-ji Temple: Nachisan is home to the Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three grand shrines of the Kumano region. The shrine complex features brilliant vermilion architecture set against the backdrop of the primordial forest. Directly adjacent to the shrine sits the Seiganto-ji Temple. This proximity perfectly illustrates the historical blending of Shinto and Buddhist practices in Japan. The temple's three-story pagoda is one of the most iconic and frequently photographed structures in the region.
The Sacred Nachi Falls: A short walk from the main shrine complex brings you to the base of Nachi Falls. Plunging 133 metres, it is the highest single-drop waterfall in Japan. The waterfall itself is venerated as a deity, and its consistent, powerful flow provides a spectacular and refreshing conclusion to your hike.
Nachikatsuura Town Tourist Information in Kii Katsuura
Onward to the Coastal Town of Kii-Katsuura
After exploring Nachisan, many hikers choose to travel to Kii-Katsuura to rest for the night. This scenic coastal town in Wakayama Prefecture is easily accessible via a 25-minute local bus ride from the Nachisan bus stop.
Japan's Largest Raw Tuna Market: Kii-Katsuura is famous for its fishing industry and has the largest catch of fresh, raw tuna in Japan. The local fishermen use traditional longline fishing methods to ensure sustainability. The town's fish market is a central hub where you can watch the early morning tuna auctions from a special observation deck. Next to the auction area is the Nigiwai Market, where visitors can eat freshly caught tuna at various shops and restaurants.
Whale Watching: For nature enthusiasts, Nachi-Katsuura offers excellent whale and dolphin watching opportunities from March to September. During this time, you can join a boat tour and head into the Pacific Ocean to see sperm whales and rorquals. These tours provide a unique opportunity to observe these large marine mammals in their natural habitat.
The Onsen Experience: Kii-Katsuura is also known for its numerous onsen (natural hot springs), having the most in Wakayama Prefecture. Notable onsen experiences include Hotel Urashima's Bokido Cave Bath, located inside a natural grotto with views of the ocean. Another option is Nakanoshima Ryokan, a hotel on a private island with open-air rotenburo baths overlooking the sea. For a more exclusive stay, consider Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima.
Private Island Luxury at Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima
Kii-Katsuura Sign to the Tourist Pier to board ferry to Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima
Ferry to Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima
Discover a sanctuary set apart from the world at Kumano-bettei Nakanoshima, situated on its own private island in the tranquil Katsuura Bay. Accessible only by a dedicated ferry, this exquisite hotel is a realm of unparalleled serenity.
Onsen Spa at Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima
Kaiseki Dinner
Here, six natural hot spring sources feed spectacular open-air baths, offering uninterrupted vistas of the vast ocean. As dusk settles, indulge in a traditional multi-course Kaiseki dinner, a culinary masterpiece crafted from the finest local ingredients. Let this be the setting for your perfect conclusion to the Kumano Kodo.
Ready to start your journey? Browse our range of Kumano Kodo Walking tours to find the ideal experience for your interests and schedule. For a fully bespoke Kumano Kodo Walk, Bike and Seaside Onsen Retreat holiday, or to arrange a family adventure tailored to your needs, contact us at info@onlyluxe.com.au. Our travel specialists are here to help you plan an unforgettable visit to the Kumano Kodo.
