Kumano Kodo Self Guided Hiking

From Takijiri to Nachi-san/Kii-Katsuura. Total walking distance 66km. Traditional accommodation, local breakfasts, 5 local dinners. Train Tickets, maps, directions and local phone support.

We have created a range of shorter packages that are perfect for all situations. Whether you want a few days to explore on your way to Europe, or more time to explore a destination pre/post cruising. You can also mix and match these tours and packages to create your own custom itinerary. There are excursions that explore all our favourite destinations, as well as ones that take you off the beaten track for the best unique experiences.

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What’s included in the tour

Accommodation

5 nights traditional Japanese accommodation with local breakfast

Meals

5 x local Dinners

Transport

Train Tickets (Kyoto/Osaka – Kii-Tanabe, Kii-Katsuura – Kyoto/Osaka)
Topographical maps and walking directions
Local telephone support

Tour Highlights

Takahara

Hike the ridge of Takahara and overnight in Japanes Minshuku.

Kii Mountains

Pass through small villages and the forest of Kii Mountains.

Yunomine Onsen

Yunomine Onsen, natural hot spring and enjoy a delicious feast for dinner.

Kumano River

Enjoy the banks of Kumano River and hike the Ogumotorigoe Pass and its views of the Pacific Ocean.

Tour Map & Dates

Departure Dates

2024: Daily Departure

Or Call Us On:

AU: 1300 842 688

NZ: 08 0084 2688

Tour Itinerary

Enjoy the scenic ocean views as you travel by train from Kyoto or Osaka to the small town of Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to the Kumano Kodo Trail. On arrival you will transfer to a local bus and travel to Takijiri. Your Kumano Kodo pilgrimage begins! Hike to the ridge-top village of Takahara, check in to your hotel, or continue to the nearby village Kurisugawa where you can stay in a Japanese Minshuku overnight. Enjoy a local dinner at your accommodation and admire the views of the valley and mountains. Walking distance: 4.5km (2hrs) Elevation gain: 370m ascent

After breakfast you will continue your journey on foot as you follow the trail through small settlements and the peaceful countryside. Check into a family-run Minshuku guesthouse when you reach Chikatsuyu and enjoy a home cooked meal for dinner. Walking distance: 10km (4-5hrs) Elevation gain: 480m ascent/520m descent

Continue on the trail through the mountains of Hongu, passing through small villages and the forest of the Kii Mountains. You will reach the Kumano Shrine then take a short bus ride to Yunomine Onsen (one of the older natural hot spring villages in Japan) or Kawayu Onsen (famous for its thermal water river). Relax in a Japanese bath and enjoy a delicious feast for dinner. Walking distance: 24km (8-9hrs) Elevation gain: 820m ascent/1140m descent *Shorter walking options are available today – 15km/7hrs, or 7km/2hrs and a local bus. This can be decided on the day.

After breakfast travel by bus to Ukegawa on the banks of the Kumano River. You will then progress on the Kogumotorigoe Pass before descending to the remote village of Koguchi. Tonight you can stay at a small family inn or an engaging lodge. Spend time exploring the river and relaxing in the water. Walking distance: 12.4km (4hrs) Elevation gain: 520m ascent/500m descent

On your final day you will complete your hike up to the Ogumotorigoe Pass where you can admire the view of the Pacific Ocean. Descend to Nachi-san and stay overnight in the small village, or take a local bus to the port town of Kii-Katsuura. Enjoy dinner at your accommodation. Walking distance: 15.1km (6-7hrs) Elevation gain: 980m ascent/920m descent

Travel by bus to Kii-Katsuura if you stayed in Nachi-san last night. The morning is free for you to explore the port of Kii-Katsuura, wandering the intriguing backstreets and shopping area. Around midday you will travel by train to Kyoto or Osaka for your onward journey.