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Join a fully guided private adventure along the iconic Nakahechi trail of the Kumano Kodo, Japan’s legendary pilgrimage route. Enjoy lodge-to-lodge hiking with luggage delivery, traditional ryokan stays, relaxing onsen baths, and expert cultural insights. Perfect for hikers seeking an immersive, all-inclusive journey through one of Japan’s most spiritual regions.
Private
4 Days
Jan - Jun, Sep - Dec
Intermediate
Intermediate
Discover the Sacred Nakahechi Route of the Kumano Kodo with Us
Join us for a fully guided journey along the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo, one of Japan’s most iconic pilgrimage trails. This all-inclusive trip covers everything you need for a smooth and enriching experience — from the meet-up at Kii-Tanabe Station to the final destination at the breathtaking Nachi Falls.
We’ll take care of accommodation bookings, arrange convenient lodge-to-lodge luggage delivery, and provide English-Japanese interpretation throughout the trip. Your guide is a certified UIMLA guide as well as clinical registered nurse with extensive experience assisting international travelers in Japan’s remote regions, so you’ll be in good hands every step of the way.
You’ll follow ancient pilgrimage paths once walked by emperors and monks, stay in traditional ryokan inns, relax in onsen hot springs in the river, and enjoy warm local hospitality.
There are some eligibility requirements due to the physical nature of the route, but based on your fitness level, the itinerary can be adjusted to focus on highlight sections or shortened to suit your needs. The trail includes long hiking days, but we’ll work with you to ensure the route is both safe and rewarding.
Your guide brings a wealth of knowledge about local history, geography, economy, culture, and rural Japanese life, making the experience not only scenic but also meaningful.
We recommend inquiring well in advance, as accommodations along the trail are limited and tend to book up early. That said, don’t hesitate to reach out even for last-minute requests — we are often able to secure bookings with short notice.
This trip is a truly memorable experience. We’d love to help you explore one of Japan’s most sacred and beautiful regions.
Meeting point
Start the trail after a morning briefing at Takahara. Pass through historical shrines and countryside before arriving at a family-run inn by mid-afternoon. Hiking time: approx. 6–7 hours
Set off early for a full-day trek across forested mountain passes. Arrive at Kumano Hongu Taisha in the late afternoon, then transfer to a relaxing hot spring inn. Hiking time: approx. 6–7 hours
Enjoy a gentler pace today as you move through scenic ridge trails and panoramic rest spots. Reach the riverside village of Koguchi by mid-afternoon. Hiking time: approx. 5–6 hours
Begin early for the most challenging and rewarding section. Hike up through cedar forests and over several passes before descending to Nachi Taisha and Japan’s tallest waterfall. Hiking time: approx. 6–7 hours
Disclaimer
This is not a technical trail, but it does involve long-distance hiking with sustained climbs and descents each day. You should be comfortable walking 6–8 hours per day on uneven forest trails and able to hike up to 15–20 km (9–12 miles) per day while carrying a daypack. Good endurance and mobility are important, but no prior mountaineering experience is required. With the support of a professional guide and lodge-to-lodge luggage delivery, the focus is on enjoying the journey at a steady pace.
More info
No special technical skills are required for this trip. However, participants should have prior experience with full-day hikes or extended walks on uneven terrain. Trails may include stone-paved sections and can become wet, root-covered, slippery, or muddy after rain. Good balance and surefootedness are essential. This route is best suited for those who feel confident navigating mountain paths and enjoy multi-day trekking in natural environments.
Please note: In winter months, especially January and February, snowfall is possible. In such cases, the guide will provide microspikes to ensure safe footing.
Sunglasses, Poles An extensive packing List will be provided upon booking confirmation
4.5
(32)
Guide Agency
Languages
English | Japanese
Certificates
JMGA | UIMLA
Chloe
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