Kumano Kodo – Japan

Our adventure begins in Kyoto, where we’ll meet at our central hotel — the
same place we’ll return to on the final night. You can leave your luggage here
for the day and check in when we return after exploring. We begin with a trip
briefing before heading out to visit two of Kyoto’s stunning seasonal temples
and gardens, soaking in centuries of history and beauty. A late afternoon
guided walk through the Gion district offers a glimpse of traditional Kyoto at
twilight, before returning to our hotel and enjoying a welcome dinner together.
Optional pre-night available – let us know early if you’d like us to arrange it.
Activity: Cultural walking and sightseeing (Grade 2)
Distance: Approx. 5–6 km on foot throughout the day

We take a scenic train ride to the gateway of the Kumano Kodo in Kii Tanabe
and transfer our luggage. From Takijiri-oji, we begin our pilgrimage with a short
but steep hike up to Takahara, a peaceful mountaintop village known as the
“Village in the Mist.” Tonight we settle into a traditional inn and begin our deep
dive into Japanese hospitality.
Hike: Takijiri-oji to Takahara
Grade: 3 – Short but steep initial ascent
Distance: 4 km | Duration: 2–3 hrs
Today is a luggage transfer day.

We continue along the Nakahechi route through cedar forests and tiny
hamlets, passing sacred shrines and tea houses once used by samurai. The
path weaves through rolling terrain with a few moderate climbs and descents.
We’ll arrive in Chikatsuyu by late afternoon, with time to unwind before another
delicious local dinner.
Hike: Takahara to Chikatsuyu
Grade: 3 – Moderate terrain with steady inclines
Distance: 11 km | Duration: 5–6 hrs
Today is a luggage transfer day.

Today’s walk begins at the symbolic Hosshinmon-oji gate and follows a gentle
descent through beautiful forest toward the majestic Kumano Hongu Taisha.
After time to explore the shrine and the giant Oyunohara torii gate, we’ll
continue (on foot or by vehicle) to the hot spring village of Yunomine Onsen for
a well-earned soak and traditional ryokan stay.
Hike: Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu Taisha (plus optional walk to Yunomine)
Grade: 3 – Mostly downhill, well-maintained forest trail
Distance: 7 km (plus 3 km optional extension) | Duration: 4 hrs
Today is a luggage transfer day.

The most challenging and rewarding day of the hike takes us through the
dramatic Ogumotori-goe trail. With long climbs, remote forests, and sweeping
views, it’s a true pilgrimage day. Our efforts are rewarded with arrival at the
awe-inspiring Nachi Falls and the iconic three-story pagoda of Seiganto-ji
Temple.
Hike: Koguchi to Nachi Taisha via Ogumotori-goe
Grade: 4 – Strenuous with steep ascents and descents
Distance: 14 km | Duration: 6–8 hrs
Today is a luggage transfer day.

After a slow morning in coastal Kii Katsuura — and maybe a stroll through the
lively fish market — we return by train to Kyoto. You’ll have some free time to
explore or relax before gathering for a final celebratory dinner to reflect on all
you’ve accomplished and experienced.
Activity: Free time + train travel
Grade: 1 – Light walking around town
Distance: Optional walking 2–4 km

Some of us will enjoy a final breakfast in Kyoto before heading off to the airport
for return flights home — or continuing the adventure solo! For those joining the
Tokyo extension, we’ll travel by bullet train to Japan’s buzzing capital for a new
kind of experience: modern, fast-paced, and full of flavour. After arriving, we’ll
head out for an evening orientation walk through one of Tokyo’s lively
neighbourhoods, followed by dinner at a local restaurant to kick off the next leg
of the journey with a culinary bang.

Some of us will enjoy a final breakfast before heading on a return flight home (or continuing the adventure alone)! The rest of us will transfer to Tokyo for an evening orientation walk and dinner at a local restaurant.

Lots of sightseeing today, visiting Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabuki Theather, Asakusa Sensoji Temple. After lunch at a local restaurant we’ll continue visiting Ginza shopping street. Experience the real Tokyo sampling snacks, and visits to Memory lane, Kabukicho and Golden Gai.

Enjoy a cultural walking tour of Tokyo as we explore Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Jingu shrine and Takeshitadori street and Meiji Jingu Shrine. Lunch will at a local restaurant. In the evening we embark on a Shinjuku neon light tour (Memory Lane, Kabukicho, Golden Gai)
Farewell dinner at a local pub (izakaya) in Shinjuku 3-chome

We enjoy our final tasty breakfast at our accommodation before leaving to head home or continue the adventure!