Kumano Kodo

Kumano Kodo (熊野古道) is a network of ancient pilgrimage trails in the Kii Mountains of the Kii Peninsula, located in Wakayama, Nara, and Mie Prefectures, Japan. The trails were used by pilgrims for over 1,000 years to visit the three grand shrines of Kumano: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. These shrines, collectively known as Kumano Sanzan, are considered sacred sites in Shinto, Japan’s indigenous religion.

The Kumano Kodo trails consist of several distinct routes, including the Nakahechi Route, the Ohechi Route, the Kohechi Route, and the Iseji Route. Each route offers a unique experience, with varying levels of difficulty and scenery. The trails wind through dense forests, alongside rushing rivers, and over mountain passes, providing hikers with breathtaking views of the natural landscape.

Along the Kumano Kodo trails, pilgrims and hikers can encounter various historical and cultural sites, such as ancient shrines, temples, statues of Jizo (guardian deity of children and travelers), and traditional teahouses. These sites offer insights into the spiritual and cultural traditions of the Kumano region.

In 2004, the Kumano Kodo trails, along with the three grand shrines of Kumano, were designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, recognizing their outstanding universal value. Today, the trails continue to be used by pilgrims seeking spiritual enlightenment and by hikers who appreciate the area’s natural beauty and cultural richness. There are several tour operators and accommodation options available along the trails, catering to the needs of both experienced hikers and those seeking a more leisurely experience.

Getting there

From Osaka/Kyoto

• Take the JR Kuroshio limited express train from Shin-Osaka Station to Kii-Tanabe Station (2 hours 15 minutes)
• From Kii-Tanabe Station, take a bus to Takijiri (40 minutes), the trailhead for the popular Nakahechi route

From Tokyo

• Take the Tokaido Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka Station
• Transfer to the JR Kuroshio limited express to Kii-Tanabe Station
• Take a bus from Kii-Tanabe to Takijiri

From Nagoya

• Take the JR Nanki limited express train to stations on the eastern side of the Kii Peninsula like Owase, Kumano-shi, or Shingu

Key Access Points

• Kii-Tanabe Station: Main gateway for the Nakahechi route
• Kii-Katsuura Station: Access point for Kumano Nachi Taisha
• Shingu Station: Near Kumano Hayatama Taisha

Kumano Kodo Information Center

Hours	8:30 AM – 5:15 PM
Admission	Free
Phone	+81 739-64-1470
Address	1222-1 Nakahechicho Kurisugawa, Tanabe, Wakayama 646-1421
Resources	https://www.nakahechi.jp/facility/