Hello, I’m Mio! Today, I will introduce the Kumano Kodo, located in Wakayama Prefecture. Known as an ancient pilgrimage route, the Kumano Kodo is rich in natural beauty and historical sites.
Course Overview
A popular trekking route on the Kumano Kodo is the Nakahechi Route. This route spans approximately 38 kilometers and can be walked over three days. The total ascent is around 2,240 meters, making it a challenging trek, but the trail is well-maintained with accommodations and rest areas along the way.
Highlights
- Takijiri-oji: The starting point of the trail, featuring a historical shrine and an information center. Here, you can obtain maps and prepare for your journey.
- Takahara: The endpoint of the first day, Takahara is a village with beautiful rural landscapes and mountain views. It also offers accommodation for a relaxing stay .
- Kumano Hongu Taisha: The final destination, Kumano Hongu Taisha, is an iconic shrine of the Kumano Kodo, offering breathtaking views and a sacred atmosphere.
Access
To access the Kumano Kodo, take a train from Osaka to Kii-Tanabe Station, which takes about 2 hours. From there, take a bus to Takijiri-oji, which takes about 40 minutes. If using public transportation, you can walk from the nearest bus stop to the trailhead.