Overview
People from all over the world visit the Ancient Route of Kumano Kodō, recognized as a World Heritage Site. A popular worship path leading to Osaka, Nara or Ise, it took the name of “pilgrimage of ants to Kumano” from ancient times due to its large amount of pilgrims. Feel the magnificence of times gone by in this World Heritage site, also the perfect spot for trekking in Wakayama.
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Trekking
In this trekking activity you will enjoy the guidance of the “Mi-Kumano” guiding staff, who will lead you through Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, Nachi Falls and Daimonzaka Path with great knowledge of Kumano Kodō Route. Go pass the Japanese archway Torii at the foot of the large front gate of Daimonzaka Path, cross the small bridge Furikasebashi and enter the sacred grounds.
First, you will be greeted by an 800-year old sacred cedar called Meotosugi. Perfect for an “off we go” picture!
There is about a 1km walk from the large gate of Daimonzaka to the Nachi Falls. In such a short distance, gentle stone paths and green scenery unfolds right before your eyes, becoming a route filled with beautiful landmarks and stunning spots, The whole itinerary takes about 3 hours to complete.
There are many stone paths in Kumano Kodō, which makes it an easy walking route for most people. Especially during summer, it is common to see a lot of foreign tourists walking in tank tops and shorts. However, depending on the season, insects and snakes can be found, so it is important to wear protective clothing like long sleeved shirts and long pants. And don’t forget to stay hydrated, the route until your destination can be exhausting!
Kumano Kodō is a mountain route full of old, majestic trees going beyond the age of 100 or 200 years. It gives you the authentic feeling of an impressive World Heritage Site. Next to a huge 800 year-old sacred camphor tree lies the Tabukeoji altar, considered to be last of the 99 historic shrines of “Tsukumoōji”. Let’s feel the essence of nature when we head for Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha!
Besides the Daimonzaka-Nachi Falls route, other popular itineraries include the Hosshinmon-ōjiShrine-Yunomine Hot spring and the Hosshinmon-ōjiShrine- Hongū Taisha routes. The current 17 guides enrolled in Mi-Kumano speak fluent English, so please feel free to ask any question you may have about the itinerary.
Mi-Kumano
Address/Tanabe City Tourism Center 2nd Floor, Tanabe-shi Minato, Wakayama PrefecturePhone/0739-33-7451
Opening Hours/10:00~17:00
Guiding Fare/¥4000~
(Depending on the itinerary)
Closed/Saturdays and Sundays
Recommended Experience
The Ancient route of Kumano has always been used as pilgrimage trails. Surrounded by old trees and elegant stone paths, we recommend for beginners the Daimonzaka- Nachi Falls route. Starting from the 800 year-old sacred cedar Meotsugi, the course is full of famous spots like Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. Since it is a short tour, no special phyisical strength is needed to enjoy this experience. Let's take a look at the old power spot of Kumano Kodo!