Walking the Kumano Kodo: Nakahechi Trail (Guided)

Walking the Kumano Kodo: Nakahechi Trail (Guided)

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9 Days From

$3885

Walking the Kumano Kodo: Nakahechi Trail (Guided)

9 Days Starting and ending in Kyoto, Japan

Visiting: Kyoto, Kumano Hongu Taisha, Hongu Grand Shrine, Kumano River, Nachi-san, Katsuura

Tour operator:

The Natural Adventure

Tour code:

990

Guide Type:

Fully Guided

Group size:

1 - 13

Physical rating:

Medium

Tour operated in:

English
From: $3885

NB: Prices correct on 19-Sep-2024 but subject to change.

This tour is no longer available, please see similar tours below or send an enquiry

Tour Overview

Embark on a guided journey along the historic Nakahechi Trail of the Kumano Kodo in Japan. Begin your adventure in Kyoto, exploring its iconic temples and districts before setting off to the Kii Peninsula. Traverse scenic mountain paths, visit ancient shrines, and relax in traditional ryokans with hot spring baths. Highlights include the sacred Kumano Hongu Taisha, a serene boat ride on the Kumano River, and the majestic Nachi Grand Shrine and waterfall. Enjoy the blend of cultural immersion and natural beauty, with opportunities to soak in hot springs and savor local cuisine. Conclude your memorable trek with a return to Kyoto for a farewell dinner.

Highlights

  • Meet in Kyoto and visit Ginkakuji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, Gion District, Fushimi Inari, or the bamboo forest.

  • Hike from Takijiri to the ridge-top village of Takahara on the Nakahechi Route of the Kumano Kodo.

  • Walk through small villages and forest trails over the Kii Mountains to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano.

  • Visit Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu Onsen, famous for their natural hot springs.

  • Take a traditional wooden boat ride along the Kumano River to Hayatama Grand Shrine.

  • Hike from Koguchi to Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine and visit Nachi-taki waterfall.

  • Optional coastal hike along the Iseji route with views over the Pacific Ocean or explore the port town of Kii-Katsuura.

Itinerary

Expand All

Day 1 : Meet In Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: western-style hotel in Kyoto

Meals Included: Dinner

Meet at the hotel in central Kyoto. If you arrive early we recommend a visit to the following sights: Gnkakuji Temple, Kinkakuji Temple, Gion District, or take a short train ride to Fushimi Inari and the bamboo forest. End the day with a welcome dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 2 : Kyoto – Takahara 4.5Km

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: ryokan in Takahara

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take the train from Kyoto (3h) to Tanabe on the Kii Peninsula, then travel by local bus from Kii-Tanabe station to Takijiri (40mins), where the Nakahechi Route of the Kumano Kodo begins. From Takijiri, the path climbs steadily to the ridge-top village of Takahara, your last stop for today. Spend the night in a traditional Japanese ryokan with views over the mountains and hot spring baths.

Day 3 : Takahara – Chikatsuyu 11.3Km

Location: Kumano Hongu Taisha

Accommodation Name: minshuku in Chikatsuyu

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

From Chikatsuyu, the trail continues through small villages and forest trails over the Kii Mountains to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano. At the heart of these sacred mountains, Kumano was said to be the entrance to the land of Yomi, the other world which spirits travelled to in Japanese mythology. From Kumano Hongu, a short bus ride brings you to Yunomine Onsen, one of the oldest natural hot spring villages in Japan, or Kawayu Onsen famous for the thermal water bubbling to the surface of the crystal clear river. Take the chance to have a relaxing soak in a Japanese bath before or after your delicious, multi-course dinner. After dinner, a local shamisen music group will perform for the group.

Day 4 : Chikatsuyu – Hongu Grand Shrine 12.9Km

Location: Hongu Grand Shrine

Accommodation Name: ryokan in Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu Onsen

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s hike includes two scenic sections of the Kumano Kodo trail, passing through ridge-top villages and taking in ōji shrines, where nobles once stopped to refresh and compose poems. From Chikatsuyu walk to Kobiro, then take a local bus to Hoshinmon-ōji before descending on foot to Hongū Grand Shrine. The symbol of the shrine, is a three-legged crow, representing Hongū, Nachi, and Hayatama shrines. In mythology, the three-legged crow was sent to guide Emperor Jimmu on his journey from Kumano to the Yamato Plain, now named Nara prefecture. After visiting the shrine, transfer by local bus to Yunomine Onsen, one of the oldest hot springs in Japan, or to Kawayu Onsen, famous for its thermal water bubbling to the surface of the crystal-clear river.

Day 5 : Kumano River Boat Ride

Location: Kumano River

Accommodation Name: ryokan in Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu Onsen

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Transfer by local bus to the Kumano River to take trip on a traditional wooden boat along the river to Hayatama Grand Shrine, as Imperial pilgrims once did. Finally, take the bus back to Yunomine Onsen for another night at the hot spring inn.

Day 6 : Nachi Grand Shrine And Waterfall

Location: Nachi-san

Accommodation Name: onsen hotel in Katsuura

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Take a local bus to Koguchi and hike the final section of the trail which takes you from Koguchi up to Ogumotorigoe Pass with a glimpse of the Pacific Ocean. It then descends to Nachi-san, the location of Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano. You also get a chance to visit Nachi-taki waterfall. From there take a short bus to the port town of Kii-Katsuura with wonderful views over the island-studded bay.

Day 7 : Coastal Hike Or Rest Day

Location: Katsuura

Accommodation Name: onsen hotel in Katsuura

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Today’s itinerary has an optional hike along a different section of the Kumano Kodo, the coastal part of the Iseji route, with views over the Pacific Ocean. This is the oldest paved section on the Kumano Kodo network, with stone blocks dating back eight hundred years. Alternatively, choose to relax in hot spring baths or explore the town, famous for its seafood dishes, old-fashioned Japanese shopping arcade, and whale skeleton.

Day 8 : Transfer To Kyoto

Location: Kyoto

Accommodation Name: western-style hotel in Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast, Dinner

Leave the Kii Peninsula behind by travelling on the coastal rail line to Kyoto and end your evening with a farewell dinner at a local restaurant.

Day 9 : Departure

Location: Kyoto

Meals Included: Breakfast

Departure after breakfast.

What's Included

  • Accommodation

    Accommodation in western-style hotels, ryokans, and minshukus throughout the tour.

  • Meals

    Meals included: welcome dinner on Day 1, breakfast and dinner from Day 2 to Day 8, and farewell dinner on Day 8.

  • Guided Tour

    Guided walking tour along the Kumano Kodo: Nakahechi Trail.

  • Local Transportation

    Local bus and train transfers as specified in the itinerary.

  • Cultural Experiences

    Cultural experiences such as a local shamisen music performance and a traditional wooden boat ride on the Kumano River.

What's Not Included

  • International Flights

    International flights to and from Japan are not included.

  • Travel Insurance

    Travel insurance is not included and is recommended.

  • Personal Expenses

    Personal expenses such as souvenirs, additional meals, and drinks are not included.

  • Optional Activities

    Optional activities on the rest day (Day 7) are not included.

Mode of Transport

Travel by train from Kyoto to Tanabe, local buses to various trailheads, and a traditional wooden boat along the Kumano River, with additional local bus transfers to hot spring inns.

Accommodation

Stay in a mix of western-style hotels in Kyoto and traditional Japanese ryokans and minshukus along the Kumano Kodo trail, featuring hot spring baths and scenic mountain views.

Check out our Q&As

  • What type of accommodation can I expect during the tour?

    You will stay in a variety of accommodations including western-style hotels in Kyoto, traditional Japanese ryokans in Takahara and Yunomine Onsen or Kawayu Onsen, and a minshuku in Chikatsuyu.

  • Are meals included in the tour?

    Yes, meals are included throughout the tour. You will have breakfast and dinner provided each day, with a welcome dinner on the first day and a farewell dinner on the last day.

  • What kind of physical activity is involved in this tour?

    The tour involves daily hikes ranging from 4.5km to 14.5km, with varying levels of elevation gain and loss. There is also an optional coastal hike on the seventh day.

  • Is there any cultural or historical significance to the places we will visit?

    Yes, the tour includes visits to significant cultural and historical sites such as the Kumano Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine, and the Nachi-taki waterfall. These sites are part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, which are steeped in Japanese mythology and history.

  • Will there be any opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture?

    Yes, you will have multiple opportunities to experience traditional Japanese culture, including staying in ryokans, soaking in hot spring baths, and enjoying a performance by a local shamisen music group.

  • What is the significance of the Kumano Kodo trail?

    The Kumano Kodo trail is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes that have been used for over a thousand years. It is considered sacred and is associated with the Kumano Sanzan, the three Grand Shrines of Kumano.

  • Is there any flexibility in the itinerary?

    Yes, on the seventh day, you have the option to either go on a coastal hike along the Iseji route or take a rest day to relax in hot spring baths or explore the town of Katsuura.

  • What kind of transportation will be used during the tour?

    The tour includes various modes of transportation such as trains, local buses, and a traditional wooden boat ride along the Kumano River.

  • What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?

    The Natural Adventure was founded by people who love hiking and cycling in wild and wonderful places. Places that we want to keep that way. Responsible tourism has, therefore, been at the heart of what we do since the get go.

  • Am I contributing to any charity by booking the tour?

    In April 2020 as a response to the COVID-19 crisis, we launched the Support Local Communities Initiative. We have enabled an option when booking a tour for customers to make a donation to support our local partners. 100% of the donations go directly to our local suppliers.

  • Who will be my travelling companions on the tour?

    Whether you’re travelling on your own, as a couple, a group of friends, or a family, our self-guided holidays allow you the freedom to choose your own holiday companions.

  • What documents will I receive before I travel?

    Our self guided walking and cycling holidays typically include: Accommodation, Breakfasts, Luggage transfers, Detailed holiday information pack including GPS-checked and regularly updated route descriptions, road notes and maps, 24/7 phone assistance by our local representative and/or our central office

  • What policies are in place for Covid-19?

    We are part of the 'Safe Travels' initiative.

  • Can I join the tour once it has departed?

    Yes, as long as you can reach the next location.

  • Do you operate a “single share” option and how does it work?

    Accommodations in double or twin rooms (solo travellers are usually accommodated in single rooms at an extra cost; we never mix and match)

  • What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?

    If possible, and entirely at the discretion of the Tour Operator, a change of the dates may be possible without charging an amendment fee, provided that it is requested at least 30 days before the departure date. In some cases, we will still have to pass to you any non-refundable charges imposed by our suppliers. In all other cases, change of dates will normally be treated as a cancellation.

  • Will the accommodation included meet local health and safety regulations?

    All places have been carefully checked by us and their quality is regularly monitored. We have selected accommodations that offer friendly service, clean and comfortable rooms and local flavour.

  • How long has the tour company been trading?

    The Natural Adventure was founded in the UK in 2009, by Peter Duncan, former UK Chief Scout and BBC Blue Peter presenter, and Alex Pazderski, an avid hiker and acclaimed expedition kayaker. Both natural adventurers and keen explorers of wild places and trails, remote communities and responsible tourism partners, Peter and Alex founded our company inspired by the responsible travel values t

Reviews of this operator

Kicki Neely  

Walking Fishermens trail in western…

19-Sep-2022

Walking Fishermens trail in western Portugal will be a memory for life. We loved every minute of our week. All arrangements worked perfectly, from accommodation to luggage transport to questions we had before setting off. Our local agent met with us before we started the walk and we felt very reassured by his local knowledge and support. All accommodation was different, local, clean, friendly and easy to find. Very good value for money. I can really recommend Natural Adventure company and we will be back for more adventures. Many thanks Kicki Neely and friends

Marian Wilkins (Google Reviewer)  

A friend and I did...

25-Jan-2024

A friend and I did the Alps to the Riviera walk in France at the end of 2021 and it was the best holiday experience either of us has ever had. It’s an amazing way of immersing oneself in the countryside and getting the full flavour of the country away from the tourist attractions. The Natural Adventure Company made perfect arrangements for us, gave us clear directions and was just a call away, to sort out any issues. The walk gave us incredible memories that will enrich us for a lifetime. I am in the process of booking my next wonderful adventure and I can’t wait to get started!

Cathy O'Connor (Google Reviewer)  

I recently hiked, with a...

26-Jul-2024

I recently hiked, with a friend in the Italian Alps (the Val D'Aosta) and can highly recommend the region, and the Natural Adventure company. We were very pleased with the accommodation and the food was excellent most of the time- generous portions of excellent local dishes. The resources we were sent were excellent and very thorough. It was very easy to follow the routes as we were given so much detail- which we printed out and took each day's instructions with us, and the App helped to keep us on track. Sadly, we couldn't stay at the last location because there was a storm one night and the village we were due to stay in was flooded and cut off. The Natural Adventure did all they could to support us immediately, and help us find an alternative and we ended up staying where we were, as we were so pleased with that hotel and knew we could continue our hikes from there. We were very pleased with the holiday, the walks, the info and all our dealings with them. I would highly recommend them

Amanda Daly (Google Reviewer)  

We booked our self-guided Kumano...

15-Jul-2024

We booked our self-guided Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trip in Japan with The Natural Adventure (known locally as Oku Japan). The experience was top notch from beginning to end. The information packet was thorough and helpful, and details regarding trains and local buses (timetables, pricing, etc) were consistently accurate. Each and every accommodation was unique, charming, and welcoming. When there was an issue checking into our final hotel, the local office was quick to respond and the problem was solved within the hour (it was also a Sunday, so extra points). We weren’t expecting this to be a gourmet food tour of the region, but it was that as well! On top of it all, we found the price very reasonable for everything that is included. We had a wonderful experience thanks to The Natural Adventure, and would certainly travel with them again.

Cynthia Shinn (Google Reviewer)  

I have been working with...

26-Feb-2024

I have been working with The Natural Adventure for a few years now and it's been a flawless experience. I have now booked 4 different trips (4th to happen in April 2023). Accomodations have been great and local operators (bikes, hiking guides and boats) have all been great. The rates are very fair and trip selections are great. Hoping to see some boat bike options in Greece and Turkey!

Ellen Taylor-Powell  

Great communications, customized trip

20-Aug-2022

This is our first time using Natural Adventure to plan a hiking trip in Europe. I wanted an 8-day hike to start on a certain date to explore a northern region of Portugal. They were so accommodating - customized our trip to meet our needs with responsive communications and full itinerary; everything has been taken care of. We look forward to the trip!!

Linda Giovine (Google Reviewer)  

We hiked the Kerry Way...

02-Jun-2022

We hiked the Kerry Way with Natural Adventure and it was terrific. Outstanding views and good Irish weather. Some days were longer than expected due to placement of Bed and Breakfasts. Hosts were warm and helpful even dried our gear and shared local secrets. Irish hospitality in high gear.

Tim Fuhs (Google Reviewer)  

My wife and I booked...

14-Sep-2023

My wife and I booked the Lechweg short break hike with the natural adventure company this Fall and we’re very happy with our experience. I noticed one of the reviews questioning what they (natural adventure co) provide. That’s a fair question and from my perspective as a USA citizen, they provided a very important liaison/conduit role into the EU that would be prohibitive or downright impossible for a non EU citizen hiking/biking in Europe. In addition, I have found that in dealing directly with a few European companies directly, information does not always flow as smoothly as we like. The natural adventure company’s communication style fit our liking perfectly in that we receive a fast and thorough response with every question. They are prompt and helpful. They did subcontract with another company for boots on the ground support but the hotel reservations and itinerary were in house. We would definitely use the natural adventure company again no question.

Beverley Young  

Highly Recommended

03-Aug-2022

All the way through from booking, correspondence afterwards and now a wonderful holiday. The Natural Adventure have been helpful and have provided a brilliant holiday. The hikes each day are cracking, maps & routes are detailed and easy to follow. The hotels are great too. Completely love our holiday! Would definitely use The Natural Adventure again and recommend.

Jeanna Janssen (Google Reviewer)  

Really poor experience with my...

30-Jul-2024

Really poor experience with my recent Tour Du Mont Blanc trip. Our company contact Pierre was so unprofessional and did not care about the safety of travelers. On the second day he left to do a hike and we didn’t hear back until multiple days later. I experienced multiple travel delays which meant the loss of the prepaid travel arrangements and their solution was a 250 euro taxi to the hotel. Do not recommend.

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Book with Confidence

  • Low Deposit

    The Natural Adventure requires a minimum deposit of 20% or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 42 days before departure.

  • Cancellation Policy

    We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of the natural adventure charges.

    Up to 42 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.

    At 30 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.

    At 14 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.