Kumano Kodo offers a unique blend of cultural and spiritual exploration, allowing travelers to immerse themselves in Japan's rich heritage while savoring its breathtaking landscapes. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it stands as a testament to the historical and cultural importance of this network of ancient pilgrimage routes in Japan. These paths, primarily located in Wakayama Prefecture within the Kii Mountain Range, have been traveled for over a millennium, linking revered Shinto and Buddhist shrines and temples. The Kumano Kodo is widely regarded as a cherished spiritual gem of Japan.
From ancient times to the Middle Ages, the Kumano Sanzan (three mountains of Kumano) of Hongu, Shingu, and Nachi were highly revered, and so many people, including emperors, court ladies, and common people, made pilgrimages to Kumano that it was likened to an "ants' Kumano pilgrimage" because of the uninterrupted procession of travelers.
There are several routes along the Kumano Kodo. Of these, many travelers walked the Kii Road from Kyoto to Tanabe via Osaka and Wakayama, and the Nakahechi Road from Tanabe to Nachi and Shingu via Kumano Hongu Shrine in the mountains.
The Nakahechi route from Tanabe to Nachi/Shingu via Kumano Hongu, the Ohechi route from Tanabe to Nachi/Shingu along the coastline, and the Kohechi route from Koyasan to Kumano are registered as World Heritage sites as "Kumano Pilgrimage Routes.
Access to Kumano Kodo
By Air: The Kansai International Airport (Osaka) is your aerial gateway. From here, a mix of express trains or buses will connect you to the Kumanokodo region.
By Train: From Tokyo to Shingu (For the southern part of Kumano Kodo, like the Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Nachi Taisha), You should take Tokaido Shinkansen (Bullet Train) from Tokyo to Shin-Osaka. Then you take limited Express called Kuroshio bound for Shingu. The journey to Shingu will take approximately 4 hours. Japan Rail Pass is available.
What you can do
Hiking the Sacred Trails: With paths that cater to both novice walkers and seasoned trekkers, there's a Kumanokodo route for every traveler. The trails span across diverse terrains, from gentle slopes to challenging mountainous tracks.
Engaging in Spiritual Practices: Several temples offer travelers the chance to partake in morning prayers, meditation sessions, or even calligraphy workshops.
Cultural Immersion: Whether it’s donning a pilgrim's attire, collecting temple stamps in a 'shuin-cho', or attending traditional tea ceremonies, Kumanokodo brims with opportunities to immerse yourself in local culture.
Must-Try Cuisine:
Maguro: You can eat raw tuna in Nachikatsuura, and the area is also home to the largest tuna catch in Japan.
Mikumano Beef: "Mikumano Beef" raised by Okada Butcher Shop, established in 1900, is limited to female heifers and produced only on the company's own farm. It, a rare Japanese beef with only about 100 head shipped annually, is characterized by its melt-in-your-mouth fat, tender meat, rich taste, and full of flavor, which is called "the taste of meat from the past.
Sample Itinerary of Kumano Kodo
Day1
Morning: Arrive at Shingu Station. Depending on your arrival time, grab a local breakfast or a quick snack to energize yourself for the day ahead.
Late Morning: Make your way to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, one of the three grand shrines of Kumano. Here, explore its rich history and marvel at the vibrant architectural features. The shrine is located near the Kumano River, providing scenic views.
Afternoon: Head to Kumano Hongū Taisha, another integral component of the Kumano Sanzan. The large torii gate and ancient forests surrounding this shrine offer both spiritual and natural beauty.
Evening: Relax and rejuvenate at Katsuura Onsen. Check into your ryokan (traditional Japanese inn) or hotel. Dive into the therapeutic waters of the onsen baths, and afterward, savor a traditional multi-course dinner, typically included with your stay. You can enjoy maguro at Takehara. The restraint provide cheap and delicious Maguro teisyoku.
Day2
Morning: After enjoying another dip in the onsen and a hearty breakfast, prepare to trek along the Kumano Kodo.
Late Morning to Early Afternoon: Embark on the Daimonzaka section of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. As you walk this picturesque route, with its iconic stone steps flanked by massive cedar trees, reflect on the history and the many pilgrims who have tread this path before you.
Afternoon: Reach Kumano Nachi Taisha, the third shrine of the Kumano Sanzan. Admire its architectural splendor and the harmony it shares with the surrounding nature.
Late Afternoon: A short distance from Kumano Nachi Taisha is the iconic Nachi Waterfall. Standing as Japan's tallest waterfall with a single drop, it offers both serenity and grandeur, making it a must-visit.
Evening: Conclude your journey by making your way to Kii-Katsuura Station. Depending on your onward plans, catch a train to your next destination or perhaps grab dinner at a local eatery.
Approximate Costs:
Accommodation: Traditional lodgings like Minshuku or Ryokan can range from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000 per night. Prices often encompass meals, especially dinner and breakfast. Most accommodation has their own onsen.
Food: A regular meal might cost ¥1,000 to ¥3,000. Specialty dishes, particularly in well-regarded establishments, can command higher.
Transportation: A round trip train ticket from Osaka to Kii-Tanabe or Shirahama is approximately ¥10,000. Local transportation, predominantly buses, might add another ¥2,000 to ¥5,000 depending on your itinerary.
Miscellaneous: Temple visits, trail essentials, and cultural activities may require an additional ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 daily.
Attractions near the area
Onigazyo Onigajō, which translates to "Demon's Castle," is a natural rock formation located on the coastline of the Mie Prefecture. It's renowned for its dramatic cliffs and caves, created through millennia of erosion from the Pacific Ocean. In 2010, it was designated as a UNESCO Global Geopark and is a part of the Ise-Shima National Park.
Shishiiwa Shishiiwa, or "Lion Rock," : It is located in the Kumano region. This peculiar rock formation resembles a lion and offers a panoramic view of the surrounding area from its viewpoint. It's considered a spiritual site in Kumano's traditional culture.
Hananoiwa Shrine: It is in Japan are Shinto establishments meant for spiritual rituals, festivals, and prayers. They are characterized by their torii gates, peaceful ambiance, and are often located in scenic or spiritually significant locations.
Conclusion
The Kumano Sanzan and the accompanying Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes offer a captivating blend of Japan's spiritual heritage and natural beauty. Embarking on this journey provides a unique opportunity for cultural exploration, historical discovery, and peaceful communion with nature. Over the centuries, these paths have been walked by emperors and ordinary people alike, each seeking solace, enlightenment, or simply a connection with Japan's pristine landscapes.
When you walk the Kumano Kodo, you're not merely taking a hike; you're retracing the footsteps of countless pilgrims from ancient times, traversing landscapes that have remained remarkably unchanged for centuries. Amidst spiritual shrines and lush forests, the region's exceptional cuisine, featuring delights like the tender Mikumano Beef and fresh-caught maguro, adds an extra layer of pleasure to the experience.
Additionally, nearby attractions such as Onigajō and Shishiiwa stand as timeless wonders of the Kumano region, sculpted by the hands of nature, showcasing its artistic prowess.
For travelers seeking a holistic experience that nourishes the soul, body, and palate, Kumano is an exceptional destination. Whether it's the tranquil temple rituals, invigorating hikes, or the rich flavors of traditional dishes, every aspect of this journey promises unforgettable moments. So, as you contemplate your next adventure, consider immersing yourself in the timeless charm of Kumano.
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