2 Days Kumano Kodo trekking, Japan

2 days trekking tour of Kumano Kodo with JMGA guide to enjoy ancient Japanese pilgrimage route in Kii mountain range.

Private

2 Days

Jan - May, Oct - Dec

High

Intermediate

Highlights

Enjoy trekking the most challenging section of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route over a 2-day adventure.
Explore quiet forests and feel the sacred atmosphere of ancient Japan.
Obtain the “Credential” by collecting 10 stamps along the trail.

Description

Enjoy trekking on one of a World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes!

Kumano Kodo is a popular pilgrimage trail that attracts not only locals but also hikers from around the world. This trip takes place on the Nakahechi Trail and is designed as a 2-day section hike that connects the Hongu area with Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine, both part of the "Kumano Sanzan"—the three grand shrines of Kumano. The route includes a significant elevation gain on the second day, but the effort is rewarded with the stunning view of Nachi Falls at the end.

Hike along the same path once emperors, monks, and pilgrims followed for over a thousand years allows hikers to connect deeply with Japan’s spiritual history. The journey is more than just a physical challenge; it’s a meditative experience that offers time for reflection and fosters a deep connection with ancient traditions.

Stay in traditional onsen ryokans (Japanese hot spring inns) or local accommodations, where you can enjoy regional cuisine and warm hospitality. These experiences offer a glimpse into rural Japanese life, allowing you to immerse themselves in local culture and traditions.

We'll travel to Shingu Station and stay overnight at a nearby hotel or bed and breakfast. The next day, meet at the bus stop at Shingu Station for transportation to Hongu Shrine.

Are you ready for this trekking in Kumano? Send the request to book your place now and enjoy it with a small group of participants.

Price includes

Guiding fee

Price details

**NOT Included:**
Transportation (Local bus connecting to the trailhead from Shingu Station)
Accommodation cost (Clients are responsible for the guide’s accommodation expenses)
Rental gear
Insurance fee (Clients are required to have international travel insurance for medical treatment while traveling in Japan)

Meeting point

Shingu station

Itinerary

Day : A Day Before the Hike

Accommodation: Please arrange your stay at a hotel in Shingu City, preferably closer to Shingu Station (the client is responsible for the reservation based on your budget and preferences). You can use portal sites such as Booking.com, Rakuten Travel, or Expedia.com for your reservation.

Day 1:

**Activity Summary**

- **Distance:** 16.0 km

- **Estimated Time:** Less than 4.5-6 hours, including breaks

- **Elevation Gain:** 670 meters

- **Elevation Loss:** 690 meters

**Meet-up:** 6:50 AM at Shingu Station South Gate

**7:10 AM** - Departure from Shingu Station

**8:09 AM** - Arrival at Hongu Shrine (weekdays, JPY 1,560 one way per person, cash only)

**8:09 AM** - Sightseeing at the shrine

**9:00 AM** - Departure for Koguchi via Kogumo Torigoe Trail (Maximum activity: 7hrs)

**10:00 AM** - Ukegawa intersection

**4:00 PM** - Arrival at Koguchi

**4:10 PM** - Bus to Kawayu Onsen

**4:53 PM** - Arrival at Kawayu Onsen

**5:00 PM** - Check-in hotel or ryokan at Kawayu Onsen

Day 2:

**Activity Summary**

- **Distance:** 14.5 km

- **Estimated Time:** Less than 7 hours, including breaks

- **Elevation Gain:** 1,260 meters

- **Elevation Loss:** 930 meters

**6:54 AM** - Bus ride to Koguchi (One way JPY 900 per person, cash only)

**8:06 AM** - Estimated arrival at Koguchi

**8:10 AM** - Departure for Nachi Taisha Shrine via the Ogumotori-goe Route (approx. 7 hours)

**3:10 PM** - Estimated arrival at Nachi Taisha Shrine / Nachi Falls

**3:07 PM** - Bus departs from Nachisan Bus Stop

**3:33 PM** - Arrival at Kii-Katsuura Station

**6:04 PM** - Last train to Osaka-bound

**10:08 PM** - Arrival at Shin-Osaka Station (Approx. 4 hrs, JPY 7,460 per person)

Details

More info

Note:

Accommodation: Please arrange your stay at a hotel in Shingu City, preferably closer to Shingu Station (the client is responsible for the reservation based on your budget and preferences). You can use portal sites such as Booking.com, Rakuten Travel, or Expedia.com for your reservation.
Since this area experiences double the average precipitation of Japan, having proper gear is crucial. A rain jacket, rain pants, and hiking boots are essential to keep you dry. Please review the essential gear list once more to ensure you have everything you need. If you are missing any items, you can purchase or rent them in Tokyo before you head to Shingu.
You may be able to ship your luggage to your next destination after the hike. The concierge at your hotel prior to the hike can assist with the shipment, or you can drop your luggage at the nearest convenience store. To ensure a smooth process, please provide the destination hotel’s name, address, and telephone number.
After the booking is confirmed, the guide will arrange our accommodation for Day 1. Please note that this arrangement may prioritize availability over your preferences, as reservations tend to fill up quickly.

Bespoke trip:

The guide will create a bespoke itinerary tailored to your preferences, whether it’s completing the Nakahechi route over 5 days, exploring the Kohechi route, taking on the mountaineering ascetic trail of the Omine-Okugakemichi route for practitioners, or trekking the Kii-ji or Iseji routes

Equipment you will need to bring

Rain jacket & pants
Hiking boots
Sunglasses
Base layer
Fleece
Down jacket
30L backpack
Full change of clothes (for the onsen hot spring)
Quick-drying towel (for the onsen hot spring)
Trekking poles (optional)
Water bottle (at least 1 liter)
Socks
Hiking pants
Sunscreen
Travel insurance
Cash
Watch
Camera
Snacks
Gloves (optional)
Hand towel
Wet wipes
Portable toilet (Guide will bring several; ¥1,200 each plus tax and handling fee)
Headlamp
Smartphone
Power bank (lithium-ion battery)
Hat
Rain cover for backpack
Trash bag

FAQs

What are some recommended accommodations near our adventure location?

We understand that finding the perfect place to stay is an essential part of your adventure experience. To help you with this, we’ve curated a list of three highly recommended hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and a touch of local charm. These accommodations are well-suited for adventurers looking to relax and rejuvenate after an exciting day of exploration

Dormy Inn Wakayama Wakayama Japan

See rooms

Daiwa Roynet Hotel Wakayama Wakayama Japan

See rooms

Wakayama Dai ichi Fuji Hotel Wakayama Japan

See rooms

About the guide

Hama & Guides’ Team

4.5

(13)

Guide Agency

Languages

English | Japanese

Certificates

JMGA | UIMLA

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