What Is the Kumano Kodo? Highlights of the UNESCO World Heritage Pilgrimage Routes
Kumano Kodo (Kumano Kodō) is one of Japan’s most historic pilgrimage route networks, running across the Kii Peninsula mainly in Wakayama Prefecture.
Known as the pilgrimage routes connecting the Kumano Sanzan (Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha), it was inscribed in 2004 as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.”
Long regarded as a land of “healing” and “rebirth (yomigaeri),” Kumano was so popular in the Heian period that the endless lines of pilgrims—from retired emperors and nobles to common people—were called the “Kumano Pilgrimage of Ants.”
As a sacred place where nature, history, and culture are in harmony, it still welcomes many trekking enthusiasts and travelers from Japan and abroad.
Top Things to See on the Kumano Kodo
1. Kumano Sanzan (Three Grand Shrines of Kumano)
The Kumano Sanzan, the main destinations of Kumano Kodo pilgrims, each have their own unique atmosphere.
- Kumano Hongu Taisha: A sacred space wrapped in silence and the head shrine of the many Kumano shrines found across Japan.
- Kumano Hayatama Taisha: Known for its beautiful vermilion shrine buildings and a giant sacred nagi tree within the grounds.
- Kumano Nachi Taisha: Offers a spectacular landscape together with Nachi Falls, which has a drop of 133 meters.
2. Stone-Paved Paths and Daimonzaka
Many sections of the Kumano Kodo still preserve stone-paved paths that date back to ancient times.
In particular, Daimonzaka is a popular route where you walk through moss-covered stone steps and towering cedar trees.
It is a spot that condenses the essence of the Kumano Kodo, where you can feel as if you have stepped back in time.
3. Nachi Falls
Nachi Falls, the sacred object of worship of Hiro-jinja (the auxiliary shrine of Kumano Nachi Taisha), is a powerful single-drop waterfall with a 133-meter drop and a 13-meter-wide crest, and is counted among Japan’s three most famous waterfalls together with Kegon Falls and Fukuroda Falls.
The scenery created by the waterfall spray and the surrounding primeval forest soothes visitors.
From the paid waterfall worship viewing platform (300 yen for adults, 200 yen for elementary and junior high school students), you can look up at the falls almost head-on from close range.
4. Kujūku-ōji (The 99 Oji Shrines)
Along the Kumano Kodo, there are many sites called “Oji,” which served as ritual and rest stops for pilgrims.
Takijiri-oji is considered the entrance to Kumano’s sacred area, and Hosshinmon-oji is known as the starting point of a popular trekking route to Kumano Hongu Taisha.
Walking while visiting the Oji sites allows you to retrace the history of past pilgrims and their encounters with the gods.
5. Hot Springs and Accommodations
There are several hot spring areas around the Kumano Kodo, including Yunomine Onsen, Kawayu Onsen, and Watarase Onsen.
Among them, Tsuboyu at Yunomine Onsen is especially famous as a bathable hot spring registered as part of a World Heritage site.
In winter at Kawayu Onsen, the giant open-air bath “Sennin-buro” (December to February), created by digging into the riverbed, is a seasonal specialty.
After a long trek, you can soothe your body in a hot spring and enjoy dishes made with local ingredients.
Main Kumano Kodo Routes
1. Nakahechi Route
This is the representative Kumano Kodo route and the one walked by the largest number of pilgrims, leading from Tanabe City to Kumano Hongu Taisha.
From the Heian period through the Kamakura period, it was used as the official pilgrimage route for imperial and noble Kumano pilgrimages.
Because Oji shrines such as Takijiri-oji, Tsugizakura-oji, and Hosshinmon-oji are scattered along the way and the scenery is diverse, it is also popular with beginners.
In particular, the section from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha is known as an easy-to-walk stretch.
2. Kii-ji Route
An old route that continues from Kyoto and Osaka to Tanabe City in Wakayama Prefecture, and serves as the gateway to the Nakahechi and Ohechi routes.
It has many relatively flat sections and is enjoyed as an introduction to historic highway walking.
3. Iseji Route
A route that starts from Ise Grand Shrine, passes along the eastern side of the Kii Peninsula, and continues to the Kumano Sanzan, with many mountain passes and best suited to experienced walkers.
The beautiful stone-paved path of Magose Pass is one of the iconic landscapes of the Kumano Kodo.
4. Kohechi Route
The shortest route linking Koyasan (Kōya-san) and Kumano Hongu Taisha, this is a deep mountain route with an adventurous feel and multiple passes to cross.
It generally takes several days to complete.
5. Ohechi Route
A route from Tanabe City to Nachikatsuura Town along the coastline, where you can walk while enjoying magnificent views of the Karekinada and Kumano-nada seas.
In the Edo period, it was known as a road loved by commoners and literary figures.
Best Seasons to Visit
- Spring (late March to early May): A great season for trekking through fresh greenery and mountain cherry blossoms while enjoying crisp air.
- Summer (June to August): The shade of the cedar forest is cool and ideal for trekking, but be careful during the rainy season because the stone paths can become slippery.
- Autumn (late October to early December): A popular season when the autumn leaves are beautiful and the scenery along the trail becomes richly colored.
- Winter (December to February): In quiet, serene scenery, you can enjoy a calm experience on the old pilgrimage routes with fewer visitors.
Access Information
Address
Spread mainly around Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
How to Get There
- Train and bus
- From JR Kii-Tanabe Station, you can access the main Kumano Kodo routes by local bus.
- You can also reach the Hosshinmon-oji area by local bus.
- By car
- Access each point from Nanki-Tanabe IC on the Hanwa Expressway.
Parking
Free and paid parking lots are available at major trailheads and hot spring areas.
However, parking capacity may be limited depending on the hiking point, so it is recommended to check in advance.
Recommended Ways to Enjoy the Kumano Kodo
1. Trekking
There are routes for everyone, from beginners to advanced hikers.
If it is your first time, it is best to start with an easier section.
There are also many guided tours with local storytellers (kataribe), and walking while listening to explanations about the history and nature lets you experience the charm of the Kumano Kodo more deeply.
2. Spiritual Experience
The Kumano Kodo is known as a place of “healing” and “rebirth,” and simply walking it can feel cleansing and restorative.
Trying meditation on a quiet mountain path is also a good idea.
3. Hot Springs and Local Cuisine
After a long walk, stop by a nearby hot spring and enjoy dishes made with local specialties to refresh both body and mind.
Be sure to try local foods such as mehari-zushi, chagayu (tea rice porridge), and Kumano beef.
Useful Travel Tips for Visitors
What to Bring and Wear
- Trekking shoes: Shoes suitable for safely walking stone-paved paths and mountain trails are essential.
- Rainwear: The Kii Peninsula has high annual rainfall. Be prepared for sudden weather changes in the mountains.
- Drinks and light snacks: Some sections in the mountains have few convenience stores or vending machines, so do not forget hydration and energy supplies.
Important Notes
- Trail safety: Some routes have steep or difficult sections, so plan carefully and do not overexert yourself.
- Environmental protection: Please take your trash home and help preserve the beautiful natural environment.
- Multilingual support: Major courses are equipped with English trail signs.
The Kumano Kodo is a special place for anyone seeking nature, history, and emotional healing.
Be sure to visit this sacred route and experience a spiritual journey in Japan!
