The Kumano Kodo is one of two Ancient Pilgrimages that are also UNESCO World Heritage Sites (Along with El Camino De Santiago). We spent a day following in the footsteps of the Ancients and visiting some of the Holiest shrines in Japan. Here are some great resources:
The Culture Trip Kumano Kodo Overview
Here is a map of the full hike.
Easier to Read Map of the Hike and Region
We ended up squeezing as much as possible into one full day, so we booked a car to drive us to three sections of the hike and we were able to see the three grand shrines.
Kumano Hongū Taisha
Of first section took us to Kumano Hongu Taisha, It was a three mile hike down from the mountains to the grand shrine and largest Torii gate in Japan. We were fortunate to visit on a day when the mountains were enveloped in mist, which weaves its way in and out of the peaks. The mist, as many things we saw along the way, is sacred and photographers will post up for days just to catch a glimpse. This section of the hike weaved through rustic farms, ancient forests, and had tons of gates, shrines, and figures along the way. We even came across a mountain cafe with fresh yam donuts and incredible coffee.
HAYATAMA TAISHA
The least striking of the three Grand Shrines, this smaller stop was located in Shingu, and a quick visit to check off the list.
NACHI TAISHA
The pinnacle of our hike, was a climb up a stone staircase to Nachi Taisha. Nestled in the mountain, this shrine is next to the tallest waterfall in Japan. Nachi and Nachi falls were an amazing spectacle with a vast shrine complex and is the host to many festivals.
Lodging:
For an authentic Ryokan Experience, we stayed at the Kumano Club in Kumano City. For this one, We went for authenticity and found ourselves the only foreigners in the place. This was clearly a locals resort wit ha beautiful view and fresh orange groves. The resort gives you a gift if you walk over 5,000 steps.. a box of chocolates that is well worth it.
We didn't have much time to check out the onsen but the food at Kumano Club was astounding. For our after-hike dinner, we suited up in robes, took out a spirited away style lantern, and found our way to a dining hall...which was all inclusive. The dining room is beautiful and they set us up in a private booth facing the garden and clear skies. The feature here is nature, and the kaiseki that was served was a testament to local produce. This was one of the most memorable dining experiences, and the all you can pairing helped.
