At a Glance
Pack Free.
In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn on enchanting sections of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route weaving through forested mountains and small villages towards the Grand Shrine of Hongu. Spend three nights at Japanese inns in Takahara, Nonaka and Yunomine Onsen areas, and enjoy home-cooked dinners featuring local seasonal ingredients. Your luggage will be transported each day to the next inn so that you can enjoy exploring the world-famous Kumano Kodo, Japan's ancient pilgrimage route on foot independently over 4 days.
The Kumano Kodo is the world's only UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage route besides the Camino de Santiago. Once a sacred pilgrimage reserved for emperors and samurai for over 1200 years, the world-class Kumano Kodo hiking route is today open to all walkers and natural wanderers.
The best accommodation ...
Trip Highlights
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What's Included
- 3 nights accommodation along the Kumano Kodo trail on a twin share basis (single supplement available at an additional cost)
- Enjoy delicious traditional cuisine of the Japanese countryside, with ingredients sourced from the sea and the surrounding lush mountains. 3 breakfasts, 2 lunches, 3 dinners
- Luggage transfer between accommodation (based on one piece of luggage per person, and maximum weight of each piece is 23kg). Extra luggage can be transferred at an additional cost
- Pre-walk orientation and info pack (Map, Pilgrim Credential, bus timetable etc)
Itinerary
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Walk from Takijiri-oji to Takahara: Approx. 4 km (2.5 miles), 2-3 hours walking, Elevation gain: 430 m (1410 ft), Elevation loss: 200 m (656 ft) Make your way from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, embarking on a 3-hour train journey to Kii-Tanabe Station (train ticket is at your own expense. More train information will be provided after booking). Kii-Tanabe stands as the portal to the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails. The train charts a course along the western edge of the Kii peninsula, where the landscape transforms from bustling urban hubs to serene agricultural expanses and untouched natural realms. Venture southward, and witness the transition as the mountains unfold in sparsely inhabited grandeur. Upon reaching Kii-Tanabe Station, help yourself out and a local staff will be waiting to give you an orientation of the walk. At the orientation, the local staff will provide you with an information pack (Walking Map, Pilgrim Credential etc). Take charge of your adventure by boarding a local bus (at your own expense), whisking you away for a forty-minute expedition to Takijiri. Here, your pilgrimage along the Nakahechi of the Kumano Kodo commences. Takijiri-Oji, a pivotal site on the Kumano Kodo, stands as one of the five significant Oji shrines—an entrance to realms where gods reside and Buddhist paradises of rebirth unfold. Ascend a brisk but steep trail from Takijiri to the hilltop settlement of Takahara. Your efforts will be met with sweeping vistas of the Hatenashi mountain range. Known as "Kiri-no-Sato" (Village in the Mist), Takahara enchants with its mist-draped scenic allure. As the sun sets, find refuge in the Kiri No-Sato Takahara Lodge, a quaint hotel perched in the hillside village of Takahara overlooking the Hatenashi mountain range. Wrap up the day with an organic meal using locally-sourced ingredients before settling into tranquillity for a restful night in this snug retreat. |
Kiri-no-Sato Takahara Lodge or similar
Dinner |
Walk from Takahara to Tsugizakura-Oji: Approx. 14 km (8.6 miles), 3-5 hours walking, Elevation gain: 830 m (2720 ft), Elevation loss: 650 m (2130 ft) Start the day with a delightful Japanese breakfast at your charming inn, setting the perfect tone for the fascinating journey ahead. Once done, set out on trails that wind into the forested mountains east of Takahara, where quaint settlements and serene countryside unfold before you. The path, with its clearly defined trails and occasional flagstone paving, eases your ascents. As you traverse picturesque ridges, discover Oji shrines nestled along the way, creating a seamless connection to the welcoming village of Chikatsuyu. Descend into its embrace, where a refreshing break at a local cafe awaits, allowing you to recharge amidst the village's inviting atmosphere. Afterwards, continue your leisurely walk toward Tsugizakura-oji, a hidden gem of a shrine surrounded by majestic old-growth trees. Marvel at the colossal branches reaching southward, drawn by the mystical power of Kannon's southern paradise, infusing your unforgettable journey with a touch of magic. Following a day filled with adventure, luxuriate in a spellbinding Japanese guesthouse experience nestled in the scenic Nonaka region, where you'll unwind in a cosy haven replete with a delicious dinner and tranquillity throughout the night. |
Japanese guesthouse, NonakaBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Walk from Tsugizakura-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha: Approx. 21.5 km (13 miles), 5-7+ hours walking, Elevation gain: 960 m (3,250 ft), Elevation loss: 1440 m (4,720 ft) Walkers can also choose to do one of the shorter courses by using local buses: Indulge in a leisurely breakfast, fortifying yourself for a day that beckons with challenges and scenic wonders. Embark on a full-day trek, a symphony of climbs and descents, navigating the trail from the sacred grounds of Hosshinmon-oji to the revered destination of Hongu. This trail, cloaked in a diverse forest canopy, becomes the canvas for your journey. Arriving at Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the esteemed 'Grand Shrines of Kumano,' perched on a ridge line in the northern embrace of Hongu village, you step into a realm where spirituality converges with architectural grandeur. The austere pavilions, crafted from wood and crowned with cypress bark roofs, bear witness to a design legacy spanning over 800 years—a testament to the enduring harmony between craftsmanship and nature. A 10-minute bus ride from Kumano Hongu Taisha transports you to Yunomine Onsen, a village steeped in the soothing embrace of natural hot springs, its thermal waters a timeless source of rejuvenation. Here, history melds seamlessly with relaxation as you soak in the tranquil atmosphere of one of Japan's oldest hot-spring retreats. * Alternative stay in the nearby Kawayu Onsen - a geological thermal wonder located on the Oto River, where you can enjoy the unique river hot spring. Tonight's sanctuary is a traditional Japanese Ryokan nestled in the heart of either Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu Onsen, each promising an immersive experience in Japanese hospitality. After a day of exploration, surrender to the serene allure of a traditional Japanese bath - a perfect relief for both body and soul after a full day trek. Indulge in a prelude or postlude to a delectable multi-course dinner that tantalises your taste buds, completing a day where adventure and indulgence intertwine seamlessly. |
Traditional Japanese Ryokan at Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu OnsenBreakfast, Lunch, Dinner |
Enjoy your breakfast and take time to explore the atmospheric village of Yunomine Onsen/Kawayu Onsen. Ride a local bus & train to Nachi (at your own expense). Visit Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three grand shrines, located halfway up Nachi Mountain, about 350 meters above sea level. It has its religious origin in the ancient nature worship of Nachi-no-Otaki falls. Nachi Falls, 133 meters high and 13 meters wide, is the tallest waterfall in Japan. Its water source is the surrounding broad-leaf evergreen primeval forest, a sanctuary that has been protected since ancient times, used for ascetic training by mountain monks who practice Shugendo, a mixed religion of foreign and indigenous beliefs. Then rain ride to Shin-Osaka or Kyoto (at your own expense). |
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Please contact us if you wish to customise the itinerary including trip extensions (Additional Charge). Options are:
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation. The luggage transfer is not included for Day 4. We suggest you forward luggage to your next hotel in Japan (The forwarding fee is approx. 2000yen per piece). Then you can only carry a small day pack for your Day 4 activities. There is a luggage storage facility at Kii-Katsuura Station. Please ask the local staff to provide you with more details of the luggage storage facility at Kii-Katsuura Station during the Orientation on Day 1. |
NoneBreakfastDates & Prices
Daily departure on request. Please contact us to book if you have a group of more than 12 people.
More Info
The departure point is Kii-Tanabe.
By train from Kyoto
Kyoto > Kii-Tanabe (2 hrs 35min)
By train from Osaka
Shin-Osaka > Kii-Tanabe (2 hrs)
Day 1: Approximately 4 km, 2 - 3 hours
Day 2: Approximately 13 km, 6 - 8 hours
Day 3: Approximately 21.5 km, 8 - 11 hours (Shorter options are available on request. You can walk 8 km or 17 km instead)
Day 4: No walk
A "Dual Pilgrim" is someone who has walked both the Kumano Kodo and the Way of St.James (Camino de Santiago).
This program was developed to celebrate, honor, and share the stories of those who have completed both of these UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes.
Dual Pilgrims receive a limited edition "DUAL PILGRIM" pin badge and are featured on the Dual Pilgrim. (Inclusion on the website is optional).
To receive the Dual Pilgrim status, pilgrims must complete one of the options for the Way of St. James, and one of the options for the Kumano Kodo, then register at a designated site.
Way of St James Options
- at least the last 100 km on foot or by horse, or
- at least the last 200 km by bicycle
Kumano Kodo Options
- Takijiri-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~38 km) or
- Kumano Nachi Taisha to/from Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~30 km) or
- Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~7 km) plus a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha or
- Koyasan to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~70 km)
Only walking is allowed on the Kumano Kodo. No bicycles or horses.
You can register for "Dual Pilgrim" status after you have completed the second route in either Santiago de Compostela or Tanabe City.
The Kumano Kodo can be walked year round but the weather can change rapidly in the Kumano mountain environment.
The best time to walk the Kumano Kodo really depends on what you are looking for.
March - April is spring season and an extremely popular time as it is cherry blossom season in Japan. October - November is also a popular time to visit as it is autumn and the colours throughout the forest are stunning. In spring and autumn, you can expect daytime temperatures of around 10-15°C. May and September are also lovely months to visit with warmer and longer days - daytime temperatures range between 18-24°C.
June - August is summer season so you can expect much more humidity and higher rainfall but on the other hand scenery is beautifully green and verdant. During summer you can expect up to 25-30°C in temperature.
December - February is winter season and there is a small chance of snow on the Nakahechi route. Trails are open year round but due to the cool weather and reduced hours of daylight we recommend this time of year for experienced trekkers only.
Most accommodation close during the Christmas and New Year's holiday period.
Kii-Peninsula is one of the wettest areas of mainland Japan and you should be prepared with adequate rain gear.
Please note that the period when you are most likely to experience Typhoons is during August - early October period. If a Typhoon makes landfall on the mainland then there is often disruption to travel plans as all transport shuts down during a Typhoon and people stay indoors. Depending on the damage caused there may also be temporary trail closures - though usually things return to normal fairly quickly.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.
Payment Detail
All pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.
A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 60 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 60 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.
Single Supplement
All accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.
General Cancellation Policies
- Outside of 60 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee
- Within 60 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited
- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption
- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurance
Please Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.
Liability
The participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.
Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.
Child Policy
Please consult travel consultant on age limit.
Changes to Itineraries
Local conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.
Changes in Prices
While we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.
Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age Limits
You need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.
Cancellation by The Tour Operator
The walks take place in very special wilderness settings. The tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a walk with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the walk has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any walk up to 60 days prior to departure if a minimum of 4 walkers are unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the walk or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.
Force Majeure
'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.
Evacuations
In rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.
For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.
Travel Insurance
In view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.
