Pilgrimage: The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Path – Takijiri to Mount Nachi

Your tour begins in either Osaka or Kyoto, where you will take a scenic train journey to Kii-Tanabe. Part of the route traces the spectacular coastline of the Kii Peninsula, offering stunning sea views along the way. On arrival in Kii-Tanabe, a bus ride will bring you to the starting point of today’s walk on the Nakahechi trail, a historic section of the revered Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. From Takijiri, the trail ascends steadily through forested hills to the ridge top village of Takahara. Tonight, your stay will be in either Takahara or the nearby village of Karisugawa, where you will experience authentic local hospitality and a serene countryside atmosphere.

Please consider adding a night before the start of the trail to best prepare for your trip and allow for your documentation to be delivered to you.

Fuel up with a tasty Japanese breakfast before setting off on the trail to Chikatsuyu. You will pass through small villages and by several Oji shrines, before finally descending to your destination for the night. The path is clear and well marked, with stone flagging laid along steeper sections to make the climbs easier. You will spend the night in Chikatsuyu or Nonaka, at a local minshuku.

Begin your day with an early start as you set out from Chikatsuyu, following the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail through the serene mountains of Hongu. The route winds through peaceful forests and mountain villages, offering glimpses of traditional rural Japan. Your journey leads you to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano and a deeply spiritual site in Japanese Shinto tradition. According to ancient mythology, the heart of these mountains was believed to be the entrance to Yomi, the ‘other world’ through which spirits would travel after death. After this immersive walk, a short bus ride will bring you to Yunomine Onsen, one of Japan’s oldest and most atmospheric natural hot spring villages.

Start the day by exploring the tranquil village of Hongu, soaking up its atmosphere and traditional charm. From here, you can choose between two rewarding Kumano Kodo hiking routes. The first option is to ascend the Kogumotorigoe path towards Koguchi. This journey begins with a short bus ride to Ukegawa, the starting point of the Kogumotorigoe Pass trail. The route leads you through lush forests and scenic mountain paths before descending into the quiet village of Koguchi. Alternatively, you may opt to hike another section of the trail near Hongu, offering views across the surrounding valleys and countryside. For those seeking a gentler pace, you can spend the day relaxing in one of the nearby hot spring villages, enjoying the healing waters that have soothed pilgrims for centuries.

The final section of your Kumano Kodo pilgrimage leads you from Koguchi up the Ogumotorigoe Pass, one of the most scenic and historic parts of the trail. After a steady climb through ancient cedar forests, the path descends towards Nachi-san, where you’ll discover Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano. Here, the sacred Nachi Taki Waterfall cascades dramatically beside the shrine, Japan’s tallest single drop waterfall and a symbol of spiritual purity. Following, bus ride will take you to the port town of Kii-Katsuura, where you can enjoy panoramic views of the bay.

Kii-Katsuura is an active fishing port and one the main attractions is their fishing market and the islands that dot the bay. It is also possible to visit Hayatama Shrine in Shingu one of the three grand shrines of Kumano. Board your train back to Kyoto ot Osaka around lunchtime to reach either city mid or late afternoon. To make the most of your experience, consider adding an extra night in either city to further explore their vibrant culture, historic sites, and local cuisine at a more relaxed pace.