Kumano Kodo Trails: Your Hiking Guide with Maps for the Best Routes and Tips

The Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes situated in the Kumano mountains on the Kii Peninsula, within Wakayama Prefecture in the southern part of Honshu, Japan.

All these trails converge at Kumano Hongū Taisha, the most significant of the three renowned shrines known as Kumano Sanzan.

The other two shrines are situated along the coast and all are linked to Kumano Hongū Taisha by these pilgrimage routes. These routes are renowned for their serene natural environment and mysterious religious culture, attracting both pilgrims and hikers from around the world.

This article will introduce the essential routes of the Kumano Kodo, the time required for trekking, accommodation options, the best seasons to visit, and important tips for hikers.

Which Is the Best Route in the Kumano Kodo?

There are six pilgrimage routes connecting the three Kumano shrines. The most famous of these are the Nakahechi, Ohechi, and Kohechi routes, with the Nakahechi one being the most famous.

The Nakahechi route is rich in history and culture, connecting the three grand shrines of Kumano. It has several sections, each with different trail conditions and difficulty levels, so hikers could choose parts that match their abilities.

The Ohechi route offers beautiful coastal views and is a great place to rest and stay overnight.

The Kohechi route is the most challenging mountain route, connecting Kumano Hongu Taisha to Mount Koya and requiring hikers to cross mountains.

We will focus on the recommended Nakahechi route. 

Nakahechi Route: Imperial Pilgrimage Route

The Nakahechi route is the most recommended path. It was used by royalty and nobility traveling from Kyoto to pay their respects in the past.

The route starts from Takijiri-oji and ends at Oyunohara, with a total length of 105 kilometers (65 miles). It usually takes 5 to 6 days to complete.

However, the route has many sections and you could only choose to walk along part of it, such as the most essential section from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, which only takes half a day.

The most famous three sections include:

Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha: the easiest and most scenic stretch

Kogumotori-goe: offers views of the Kumano mountains

Ogumotori-goe: known for stunning views of the Pacific Ocean with fishing village and its quick, steep ascents

These options range from the easiest to the most challenging, allowing you to choose based on your fitness level and available time.

Distance and elevation of the three sections in the Kumano Kodo:

1. Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha

• Distance: about 7 km (4 miles)
• Difficulty: easy  
• Walking time: 2–3 hours

It's a classic beginner route that allows hikers to enjoy peaceful views of tranquil pilgrimage paths, forests, and shrines.

This route is the gentlest section of the Kumano Kodo trail and the shortest way to achieve Dual Pilgrim status. It has no steep slopes as it winds through the forest, making it suitable for children aged 10 and up.

If you want a more relaxing and enriching experience, after completing the hike, you could take a 30-minute bus ride to enjoy a boat trip along the Kumano River from Kumano Hongu Taisha to Kumano Hayatama Taisha. In just 90 minutes, you would experience the unique waterway that ancient nobles traversed during their pilgrimages.

If you still have energy, you could choose to take a bus to Daimon-zaka and then hike from Daimon-zaka to Nachi. This section consists of stone steps and is challenging, requiring at least an hour. You could also experience local costume hiking, taking photos, and visiting attractions.

These activities are not too tiring, making them perfect for a half-day trip if you arrive at noon, or you could combine them as part of your first-day adjustment for the hike.

If you want a more immersive experience, we recommend 4-Day Koyasan and Kumano Kodo Walking Tour

2. Kogumotori-goe（Between Koguchi and Ukegawa in Hongu, Either Direction)

• Distance: 13 km (8 miles) 
• Difficulty: moderate  
• Walking time: 4½–6 hours

This section features steeper climbs and a longer walking distance. You would pass through forests and ridges, with a climb to Hyakken-gura, where you could enjoy views of the Kumano mountains. Be cautious on the sloped steps as they could be slippery with moss when wet.

Rest areas on the route: Sakura-jaya Teahouse and Ishido-jaya Teahouse remains.

Tips:
Accommodation options in Koguchi are limited, so it's recommended to hike from Koguchi to Hongu Taisha and then take a bus or car to stay in Kawayu Onsen or Yunomine Onsen.
There are no restaurants along the route, so be sure to prepare your own lunch.

3. Ogumotori-goe (Kumano Nachi Taisha to Koguchi, Either Direction)

• Distance: 14.5 km (9 miles) 
• Difficulty: hard  
• Walking time: 5½–7 hours

The most challenging part of the Nakahechi route is also its highlight. The trail winds through steep slopes, with some stone steps covered in moss.

In the first segment, the elevation increases by 800 meters (2,625 feet) over approximately 5 kilometers (3 miles). Along the way, you could enjoy stunning views of the Pacific Ocean and the picturesque Katsuura fishing village.

Breaks and facilities: There are 3–4 teahouses where you could rest and use the restrooms. However, there are no restaurants or accommodation along this route, so it is not recommended for beginners or those with limited stamina.

Ohechi Route: Perfect Rest Place with a Coastal View

The Ohechi coastal route is renowned for its coastal scenery. It primarily features roads and paths, with fewer hiking trails. It mainly serves as a transit and rest stop for those walking the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes.

The highly recommended areas are Shirahama and Katsuura, both of which boast excellent geographic locations and beautiful scenery.

Katsuura is a coastal town that developed as a lodging area for visitors to the Kumano Nachi Taisha. The town attracts pilgrims with its hot spring inns, ocean-view activities, and delicious tuna dishes, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and leisure.

At Katsuura Fish Market, visitors could witness the tuna auctions, which take place at Japan's largest tuna port. Auctions begin at 7am and typically conclude around 7:40am. Note that these auctions do not occur daily, so it's advisable to check the schedule in advance.

Shirahama is home to two geological wonders: Sandanbeki and Senjo-jiki. The rocks at Sandanbeki have been shaped into fascinating formations by the sea, and the cliffs are truly impressive.

If you plan to return to Osaka after exploring the Kumano Kodo, it takes about 3–4 hours. Consider stopping over or staying overnight in Shirahama for a more relaxed experience.

How Long Does It Take to Hike the Kumano Kodo?

If you complete the entire Nakahechi route, it typically takes about 5 to 6 days.

If you start at Hosshinmon-oji and complete all three sections we have recommended, you would need at least 2½ to 3 days.

If you only select two parts of these trails, including accommodation and transfers, you could have a comfortable experience in at least 2 days.

The trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha takes about half a day. If you connect via water routes, you could visit for river views and relax in the hot springs afterward as a day tour.

If you don' t want to visit the waterway, you could hike the 1–2 km (0.6–1.2 miles) from Daimon-zaka to Kumano Nachi Taisha to experience local costumes and visit Nachi Waterfall.  

For a moderately difficult trek covering two sections, you would need at least 2 days. Start by hiking from Hashinmon to Kumano Hongu Taisha, spend a night in Kawayu or Yunomine Onsen, and then take a bus to Koguchi. From Koguchi, hike back to Kumano Hongu Taisha.

Hiking Kumano Kodo Itinerary

For a comfortable and immersive hiking experience, we recommend a two-day tour. This allows you to hike the highlights of the Kumano Kodo trails while also enjoying the coastal scenery of the Ohechi Route.

Day 1: Arrival and Hiking from Hashinmon to Kumano Hongu Taisha

• Morning: Travel from Osaka or Kyoto to Kumano Kodo in about 2½ hours, making it perfect for a short but essential hike to start your journey.
• Afternoon: Enjoy hot springs and sea views, then overnight in Katsuura.

Day 2: Hiking from Daimonzaka to Nachi Taisha and Visiting Senjojiki on the Ohechi Route

• Morning: If interested, wake up early and leave by 6 AM for the Katsuura Fish Market, then return to the hotel for breakfast. Otherwise, start your hike from Daimonzaka to Nachi Taisha at 9 AM.
• Afternoon: Return to Shirahama to visit the rock formations and cliffs, then transfer to other cities.

If you have limited time, we can also arrange a day trip for you. Feel free to contact us to customize your hiking experience.

The Best Times to Visit the Kumano Kodo

The Kumano Kodo is typically open year-round. The best times to hike the Kumano Kodo are in spring (March to May) and autumn (September to November). During these months, the weather is pleasant, with comfortable temperatures, low humidity, and minimal rainfall.

Spring offers lush greenery, while autumn showcases vibrant forest colors, making both seasons ideal for hiking.

September is a time when typhoons are common but their occurrence could be unpredictable, so it's important to stay updated on weather conditions.

In winter, daylight hours are short, with sunset occurring at about 5:30pm. It's advisable to start your hike early to reach your destination before dark, as hiking at night could be dangerous. Some trails may also be icy, so wearing non-slip shoes is essential.

The rainy season typically occurs from late May to June, when heavy rainfall could make trails slippery and may even lead to landslides. It's best to avoid hiking during this period.

Recommended Accommodation Area in the Kumano Kodo

Shirahama: A great stopover for travelers returning to Kyoto or Osaka from Nachi or Katsuura, it also offers suitable accommodation in hot spring hotels.

Hongu: Known for its hot springs, particularly Yunomine and Kawayu Onsen, Hongu offers a variety of traditional Japanese rooms in addition to hot spring hotels. Its convenient transportation makes it the best base for trekking along the Kumano Kodo.

Koguchi: Accommodation options are limited, with a small number of rooms available. If hikers starting from Nachi could not book in advance, they would need to take a bus or private car to stay in Hongu or Shingu.

Shingu: Conveniently located for exploring local cuisine, Shingu is ideal for resting and resupplying before or after your trek.

Katsuura: Situated along the Pacific coast, Katsuura features numerous ryokans and hotels with stunning ocean views. If you finish your hiking at Sukiyu or Nachi Taisha, staying over in Katsuura is a good option.

It is recommended to book accommodation at least a month and a half in advance.

Preparation Before Hiking the Kumano Kodo

Essential items include hiking shoes, a backpack, trekking poles, knee pads, outdoor clothing (such as a waterproof jacket), and a raincoat.

Packing for hiking: The Kumano Kodo is not considered a heavy trekking route, so you only need to carry enough for up to 4 days. Be sure to take sufficient snacks and water, especially for sections like Kogumotori-goe to Ogumotori-goe, where there are no vending machines or shops.

Luggage handling: If you're traveling with large items, such as suitcases, consider using a luggage delivery service to send them directly to your booked hotel. You could reserve this service through the Kumano Kodo official website. Some hotels offer paid delivery services, and convenience stores also provide similar options, typically with next-day delivery.

Alternatively, you could pack only the essentials and store your larger item of luggage at a hotel in Wakayama or Kii-Tanabe, then return by bus to collect it after your hike.

How to Get to the Kumano Kodo from Kyoto, Osaka, or Tokyo

Kii-Tanabe is located on the western coast of Wakayama Prefecture and serves as a primary gateway to the Kumano Kodo. It could be reached by train or by driving along the highway. Shirahama, just 15 kilometers (9 miles) away from Kii-Tanabe, has an airport with daily flights to and from Tokyo.

From Tokyo

Take the Shinkansen to Shin-Osaka:
Board the Tōkaidō Shinkansen (such as the "Nozomi" or "Hikari") from Tokyo Station to Shin-Osaka Station, which takes about 2½ hours.

Transfer to the Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe:
From Shin-Osaka Station, take the JR Limited Express "Kuroshio" to Kii-Tanabe Station, which takes approximately 1½ hours.

Alternatively, you could take a flight from Tokyo to Shirahama, taking about 1 hour.

From Osaka

Take the Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe:
From Osaka Station or Tennoji Station, board the JR Limited Express "Kuroshio" to Kii-Tanabe Station, which takes about 2½ hours.

From Kyoto

Take the Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe:
From Kyoto Station, take the JR Limited Express "Kuroshio" to Kii-Tanabe Station, which takes approximately 2½ hours.

FAQs

1. Do I Need Hiking Poles and What Should I Wear?

Using hiking poles could be quite beneficial when hiking the Kumano Kodo, especially on steep or uneven steps. They help reduce strain on your knees.

Wear breathable and moisture-wicking clothing. Even in the summer, it' s better to wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants as they provide sun protection and help prevent insect bites.

2. Are There Bears and Snakes?

The Kumano Kodo is home to the Japanese pit viper, especially during warmer seasons when snakes, lizards, and toads are commonly seen. Therefore, it' s advisable to wear long sleeves and long pants, and carry hiking poles that could be used to gently fend off any wildlife. While some sections may have signs warning of bear activity, the likelihood of encountering a bear while hiking is relatively low. If you' re concerned, consider taking bear bells and bear spray for added safety.

3. Can You Walk Alone?

It' s recommended to hike with others and inform someone of your itinerary. That way, if any unexpected situations arise during your journey, you could receive help promptly.

4. Can You Cycle in the Kumano Kodo?

Cycling is not permitted along the Kumano Kodo trails; they are designated for walking only.

5. How Can I Deal with Rubbish?

There are very few public trash bins along the trail. Please carry all of your rubbish. Place your trash in a plastic bag, and you could dispose of it at the next accommodation stop.

How to Get to the Dual Pilgram Status in the Kumano Kodo

If you wish to get the Dual Pilgrim Credential, you could pick up a Dual Pilgrim passport. Choose one of the routes in the Kumano Kodo area and collect stamps along the way at designated locations.

• Takijiri-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~38 km/24 miles)
• Kumano Nachi Taisha to/from Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~30 km/19 miles)
• Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~7 km/4 miles) plus a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha
• Koyasan to Kumano Hongu Taisha on foot (~70 km/43 miles)

For more details about the Dual Pilgram status, you should check Kumano Kodo Dual Pilgrim.

Let' s Help You Arrange Your Hiking Trip in the Kumano Kodo

The Kumano Kodo official website provides detailed information about each segment of the hiking routes, including trail difficulty, transportation schedules, and accommodation options. However, due to the extensive information and long routes, it could be challenging to search for what you want. If you have any questions about planning your Kumano Kodo hiking itinerary or need assistance, feel free to contact us. We'll help you create your Japan itinerary based on your preferences.