Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage (6 days, 5 nights)

Who is this for?
To those who want to explore the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage and its diverse landscapes in comfort. With private transportation, guided tours, and reserved spots at the Grand Shrines of the Kumano Pilgrimage, this journey offers a chance to enjoy the route for its coastal rock formations to dense forested mountains...without the hassle of logistics. 

Physical Activity: Medium
Length of Trip:  6 days, 5 nights
Capacity:  1-10 people

Visualize yourself:
- Walking ancient stone paths once traveled by emperors and pilgrims
- Passing through dense cedar forests, where sunlight filters through the canopy
- Reaching sacred shrines nestled deep in the mountains
- Soaking in the local hot springs of mountain towns 

Itinerary:

WAKAYAMA    |    4 nights
Day 1: Welcome! Fish Markets and Settle Into an Onsen
Start the tour with a seamless shuttle from Kansai International Airport in Osaka  to Wakayama. Dive into the lively Kuroshio Fish Market for a taste of fresh, local seafood. Then, unwind at the serene Shirahama Onsen, soaking in the soothing hot springs and beautiful views. Shirahama is also known for its pristine white-sand beach. Enjoy the day of relaxation before the pilgrimage. 

Day 2: The Journey Deeper, Geographical Wonders by the Sea
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Experience the natural geographical wonders of the region with a visit to the Senjojiki Rock Plateau to see wave-carved rock formations. Explore the Sandanbeki Cave, once used by pirates.  See the fascinating sea caves carved by centuries of erosion and learn about the history of Japanese pirates. Then see the Hashigui-iwa Rocks in Kumano Geopark and end the day with panoramic ocean views from the Cape Shinomisaki Tower. 

Day 3: Two Grand Shrines make for a Fun Hiking Adventure
Included meals: Breakfast,  Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine via the Daimonzaka trail, nestled in the forest to see the powerful Nachi Waterfall, one of Japan's tallest. Popular for hiking and birding, the trail takes about 2 hours to complete and offers a rewarding experience year-round. Then visit the Kumano Hayatama Shrine, the second of the three grand shrines of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Both shrines are revered for its role in Japan's spiritual history, acting as a place for pilgrims to seek protection, purification, and blessings. 

Length of hike: 4.7 km
Elevation gain: 317m
Hike time: 2 hours

Day 4: The Koguchi Trail 
Included meals: Breakfast,  Dinner 
Hike the trail from Forestry Road Junction to the Kumano Hongu Shrine. Along the way, pass the intersection of the forest trail and asphalt road to reach Hyakkengura, the most expansive viewpoint on the trail, offering sweeping views of the mountain range. The walk concludes with a gentle descent to Ukegawa, where a private vehicle will take visitors to Kumano Hongu Shrine, the last of the three Grand Shrines. The journey ends at Kawayu Onsen, a World Heritage Site, providing a perfect place to rest after the hike.

Elevation loss: 350m
Hike time: 3.5 hours

OSAKA       |     1 night
Day 5: 
Included meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
While both Koyasan and the Kumano Pilgrimage are important pilgrimage routes in Japan, they are separate. Koyasan is a sacred mountain associated with Shingon Buddhism, and it is home to many temples. On this day head to Koyasan, an area that is like stepping into a completely different world. Wander through the vast Okunoin cemetery, where the air feels still, and the towering trees create this mysterious yet peaceful energy.  After soaking up the calm of Koyasan, head to Osaka to end the day with a bit of excitement. Hit the streets for some shopping and food.

Day 6: Fly home
Included meals: Breakfast
Your next destination? Home sweet home. But remember, it's not sayonara yet, it's "See you soon!" The question is, where to from here?

OR EXTEND YOUR TRIP!
Add another trip of ours on top of this journey and we will be happy to send you off.