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Kumano Kodo self-guided walking 5 days

The quintessential Kumano Kodo experience on the classic Nakahechi route.

A slightly lengthier collection of the Nakahechi route’s highlights, including the breathtaking Nachi Falls. Recommended for experienced hikers, enjoy four hikes of 2-7 hours as you walk from village to village. Eligible for Dual Pilgrim certification.

  • Duration: 5 days
  • Trip level:
    Intermediate
    Level
  • Availability: All year (snow falls occasionally from December to March)
  • Type:Self-guided
    Level
  • Price: From USD 1,555(Price per person, based on 2 travellers sharing a room)
Highlights
  • Take in Nachi Falls, Japan’s waterfall with the tallest uninterrupted drop
  • Earn credentials to receive Dual Pilgrim status
  • Enjoy incredible valley and mountain views as you hike village to village
  • Savour the delectable local cuisine
  • Visit two of Kumano’s grand shrines, Hongū Grand Shrine and Nachi Grand Shrine on your walk, with a chance to see the third, Hayatama Grand Shrine, on your fifth day
  • Explore Kii-Katsuura's lively fishing port

One of the most remote and mystical areas of Japan, the Kii Peninsula is home to the Kii Mountain Range, featuring dramatic scenery and more than 1,000 years of history. The Kumano Kodō is comprised of several routes, including the Nakahechi, Kiiji, Iseji, Kohechi, and Ōhechi.

Our 5-day Kumano Kodō self-guided tour focuses on the Nakahechi, the classic Kumano Kodō route, introducing you to the highlights of this ancient trail, including the breathtaking Nachi Falls. You will also have the opportunity to visit Hongū Grand Shrine, Nachi Grand Shrine, and Hayatama Grand Shrine, known as the 'Kumano Sanzan' (熊野三山/Three Grand Shrines of Kumano).

As you walk from village to village, you will have ample opportunities to take in gorgeous mountain scenery, relax in onsen hot springs, and enjoy the delicious local cuisine.

You’re supported by our team in Kyōto, our local Chikatsuyu office, and by our bespoke turn-by-turn walking instructions and topographical maps to guide you on your way, created by our team of hikers for you.

If you’re an experienced hiker looking to enjoy the many highlights of the Kumano Kodō’s Nakahechi route, our 5-day tour may be the perfect fit for you!

Have you walked the Camino de Santiago? You can obtain Dual Pilgrim status on our tour, or earn your credentials and obtain the status on your future Camino de Santiago trip. 

Daily luggage transfer is also available along the Kumano Kodo trail as an optional extra service.

Download PDF itinerary

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What is included
4 nights at Japanese inns along the Kumano Kodō trail
4 breakfasts and 4 dinners
Round-trip train tickets from Kyōto or Ōsaka
Detailed day-by-day itinerary and walking directions
Detailed maps
Local support by telephone and at our Kumano Kodō branch
Our Preparing for Your Trip and Travelling in Japan guidebooks
What is not included
Flights
Airport transfers
Drinks and meals not included in itinerary
Local bus journeys which must be paid directly to the bus driver
Single room supplement(s) for solo occupancy
Daily luggage transfer
Itinerary

Tour itineraries are subject to change. We will inform you of any amendments as soon as we become aware of them.