The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are one of the most famous hiking places in Japan. People have been walking on these paths for more than 1,000 years. In olden days emperors, monks, samurai and many other people walked on these paths because they believed that this place was religious.
People from all over the world come here to enjoy the beautiful nature and also to learn about Japanese culture. The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are not just normal hiking places like many other hiking trails, because it is an old religious path. When you move forward you will see the peaceful forests, small villages, old stone paths, beautiful mountains and ancient religious places. Walking on this path feels like you are walking through Japan’s history.
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Walking through the tranquil forests that have welcomed pilgrims for over 1,000 years.
Small mountain villages offer a glimpse of traditional rural Japan.
History of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are more than 1,000 years old. A long time ago Japanese emperors and rich families walked on these paths. Later monks, samurai, merchants and many other people also used these paths.
Every year, thousands of people come here to experience the Kumano Kodo trail. They believed that walking on this path would bring them peace, good health, happiness and good luck. On this trail you will experience beautiful views, religious places where you can pray, and peaceful surroundings.
Even today, people from many countries come to visit the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails. Some people come to enjoy hiking while others want to learn about Japan’s history and culture. Many visitors also come to see the beautiful forests, mountains, rivers, waterfalls and small villages along the way. Walking on these old paths is a special experience because you can enjoy nature and follow a path that people have used for hundreds of years.
Where Are the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails Located?
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are in the Kii Mountain Range which is in southern Japan. This area is peaceful, completely covered with greenery and full of beautiful nature.
Many people start their trip from big cities like Osaka, Kyoto or Nara. From there they take a train to Kii-Tanabe which is one of the main starting points for the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails. You can also reach the trails by bus from Kii-Tanabe.
The area near the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails is very beautiful. When you walk in this area you will see tall mountains, green forests, clear rivers and beautiful waterfalls. There are also small villages where local people still live. From these villages you can see the simple and peaceful side of Japan by talking with the local people.
Another special thing about this area is its hot springs, because after walking for so long people feel tired and can enjoy relaxing in the warm natural hot springs. The fresh air and beautiful mountain views will make the journey even more enjoyable.
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are a great place for people who love nature and Japanese history. Every part of the journey gives you something beautiful to see and enjoy. Every place in this journey has its own special importance.
Main Routes of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails have many walking routes. Each route is different, as some are easy to walk while others are longer and more difficult. If you want to learn more about the trail distance before choosing a route, then read our guide on How Long Is the Kumano Kodo Trail. You can then choose the route that matches your time, fitness and travel plan.
The Nakahechi Route is the most popular route. It is the best choice for people visiting for the first time. Along the way you can visit Takijiri-oji, Takahara Village, Chikatsuyu and Kumano Hongu Taisha. The route is also clearly marked with signboards, and there are many places to stay, eat and rest. Because of this, many first-time visitors choose this route.
The Kohechi Route is a mountain trail that connects Koyasan with the Kumano area. However, this route has many steep climbs and it is a long journey. So it is a good choice for people who have hiking experience and for people who enjoy a greater challenge.
The Ohechi Route is close to the sea. As you walk you can enjoy beautiful ocean views, mountains and fresh air. It is a great route for people who love both nature and the ocean.
The Iseji Route is in the Mie area. This route is known for its old stone paths, quiet villages and beautiful forests. As you walk you can see peaceful places where you can enjoy nature and experience the traditional side of Japan.
The Omine Okugakemichi Route is the hardest route on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails. This route has high mountains and is best for experienced hikers. Many people also choose this route because of its long history and the peaceful, special walking experience it offers.
| Route | Approximate Distance | Difficulty |
|---|---|---|
| Nakahechi Route | About 38 km | Moderate |
| Kohechi Route | About 70 km | Challenging |
| Ohechi Route | About 120 km | Moderate |
| Iseji Route | About 170 km | Moderate to Challenging |
| Omine Okugakemichi Route | About 170 km | Very Challenging |
How Many Days Do You Need For the Famous Nakahechi Route?
Most people spend 2 to 5 days exploring the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails. The number of days depends on which route you choose and how much time you want to spend enjoying the journey. Some people only walk a small part of the trail while others spend many days exploring more places and historical sights along the way.
If you are visiting for the first time, then a 3-day trip is a great choice. It gives you enough time to enjoy the beautiful forests, small villages, mountain views and famous places without feeling rushed.
The Nakahechi Route is the most popular trail for first-time visitors.
Takahara Village is a peaceful stop surrounded by beautiful mountain views.
The trails offer a peaceful hiking experience through Japan’s beautiful forests.
Here is a popular 3-day itinerary for first-time visitors.
Day 1: Walk from Takijiri-oji to Takahara. Along the way you will enjoy peaceful forests and beautiful mountain views before reaching the small village of Takahara.
Day 2: Walk from Takahara to Chikatsuyu. This part of the journey takes you through quiet villages, green forests and beautiful countryside. Along the way there are many nice places to stop, relax and enjoy the scenery.
Day 3: Walk from Chikatsuyu to Kumano Hongu Taisha. This is one of the most exciting parts of the journey. Many visitors feel happy when they reach Kumano Hongu Taisha after walking the trail.
If you have more time, then you can continue your trip to Kumano Nachi Taisha and see the famous Nachi Waterfall which is one of the tallest waterfalls in Japan. In addition, this gives you more time to enjoy nature, visit more historic places and experience the beauty of the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails.
| Day | Distance | Main Highlight |
|---|---|---|
| Day 1 Takijiri-oji → Takahara |
About 4 km | Peaceful forest trail with beautiful mountain views and Takahara Village. |
| Day 2 Takahara → Chikatsuyu |
About 9–10 km | Walk through quiet villages, green forests, and the famous Gyuba-doji statue. |
| Day 3 Chikatsuyu → Kumano Hongu Taisha |
About 21–25 km | Visit Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the most important destinations on the Kumano Kodo. |
How We Would Choose a Kumano Kodo Route
| Route | Distance and difficulty in this guide | We would choose it if you… |
|---|---|---|
| Nakahechi | About 38 km, moderate | are visiting for the first time and want clear signs and places to stay |
| Kohechi | About 70 km, challenging | are experienced and want steep mountain walking from Koyasan |
| Ohechi | About 120 km, moderate | want ocean views and have a week or more |
| Iseji | About 170 km, moderate to challenging | want old stone paths and quiet villages |
| Omine Okugakemichi | About 170 km, very challenging | are an expert, and have read the access rules first |
For a first walk, we would take the Nakahechi in three days, as in this guide, and add Kumano Nachi Taisha and the waterfall if we could spare more time. The third day is the longest, so we would be willing to use a local bus for part of it, as our Kumano Kodo length guide notes. We would book lodging first, because the villages have few rooms, and pack for rain.
Anyone considering the Omine route should read the access notes in our Odaigahara and Omine guide, which explains that the Okugake route has long excluded women. To compare the walk with another famous trail, see Nakasendo vs Kumano Kodo.
Ready to Explore the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails?
The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails are one of the best experiences you will have in Japan. Whether you are visiting for the first time or returning again, you can enjoy peaceful walks, beautiful nature and Japan’s rich history. If you want to compare this trail with another famous trail in Japan, then you can compare Nakasendo vs Kumano Kodo.
Before you start your trip, make sure you plan well. Wear comfortable walking shoes, carry enough water and check the weather before you go. The Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trails can become one of the best memories you will have in Japan.
