Family Pilgrimage: Exploring Kumano Kodo

Whispers of the Past

Today marked the beginning of our family's pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodo, a journey I've dreamt of for years. Leaving behind the familiar comforts of our orchard in Kelowna, we stepped into a world where ancient paths intertwine with serene natural beauty. It’s a world steeped in history and spirituality, a far cry from our modern lives, yet deeply resonant with a sense of timeless connection.


Our adventure began bright and early with a traditional Japanese breakfast at Jokiin, our accommodation in Koya. Mei-Ling, Lin, and I savored the delicate flavors, fueling up for our first day on the trail. The atmosphere at Jokiin was incredibly peaceful, setting the perfect tone for the spiritual journey ahead of us.


Discover Koya's serene charm at Jokiin, a welcoming guest house perfect for exploring the city's historic landmarks and natural beauty.

Our first destination was Koyazaka Slope, a registered Japan Heritage site. As we started our walk, I couldn't help but feel a sense of reverence for the countless pilgrims who have walked these paths before us. The air was crisp and clean, carrying the scent of cedar and damp earth. The sunlight filtered through the trees, creating a mosaic of light and shadow on the path. Lin, ever the curious one, was fascinated by the small Jizo statues we encountered along the way. She peppered me with questions about their significance, which I did my best to answer, drawing from my knowledge of Taiwanese Buddhism and its similarities to the beliefs practiced here.


Discover the enchanting Koyazaka Slope in Wakayama, a captivating hiking area rich in history and breathtaking views, perfect for all nature lovers.

The Kumano Kodo is more than just a hiking trail; it's a journey through time, a connection to the spiritual heart of Japan, and a path to self-discovery.

The Koyazaka Slope was a gentle introduction to the challenges and rewards of the Kumano Kodo. The path was well-maintained, and the ascent was gradual, allowing us to soak in the beauty of our surroundings. Mei-Ling, ever the pragmatist, reminded me to take it slow and steady, a piece of advice I always appreciate. We paused frequently to admire the views, catching glimpses of the Pacific Ocean through the trees. The ocean breeze carried with it a sense of vastness and freedom, a reminder of the world beyond our daily routines. I snapped a few photos, trying to capture the essence of this moment, but I knew that no image could truly convey the feeling of being here, surrounded by such natural beauty and history.


Next, we ventured towards the Kumano Kodo Dainichietsu trailhead. The trail was a bit more challenging than Koyazaka Slope, with steeper inclines and uneven terrain. I was grateful for my comfortable hiking boots, one of the essentials I packed for this trip. However, I couldn't help but lament the portable phone charger I had forgotten. It would have been useful to ensure we could capture the beauty around us without worrying about draining our batteries. As we climbed, I couldn't help but feel a sense of accomplishment with each step, a feeling of pushing myself beyond my comfort zone and embracing the challenges of the pilgrimage. Lin skipped ahead, her boundless energy a stark contrast to my slightly weary legs. I chuckled to myself, remembering my own youthful exuberance and hoping that she would carry this sense of adventure with her throughout her life.


Discover the Kumano Kodo Dainichietsu trailhead, where ancient paths meet stunning natural beauty in Wakayama, Japan.

We stopped for lunch at KUMANOYASAI CAFE, a charming spot that offered a welcome respite from our trek. The cafe was bustling with fellow hikers, all eager to refuel and share stories of their journeys. We enjoyed a delicious meal of local vegetables and traditional Japanese fare, savoring the fresh flavors and the sense of community. Mei-Ling, ever the health-conscious one, was delighted by the abundance of fresh produce, while Lin devoured her bowl of rice with gusto. I took the opportunity to try some local tea, a subtle blend of earthy and floral notes that perfectly complemented the meal.


Discover tranquility at Kumonoyasai Cafe - where authentic flavors meet stunning nature along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail.

Our final stop for the day was the Kumano Kodo Information Center. It was a treasure trove of information about the Kumano Kodo, with exhibits detailing its history, culture, and natural environment. We spent a good hour exploring the center, learning about the significance of the pilgrimage routes and the spiritual beliefs that underpin them. Lin was particularly fascinated by the displays of traditional clothing and artifacts, while I was drawn to the maps and historical documents. Mei-Ling appreciated the effort put into providing information in both Japanese and English, making it accessible for international visitors like us. I picked up a few souvenirs, including a guidebook on the Kumano Kodo and a small charm for Lin, a tangible reminder of our journey.


Explore the Kumano Kodo Information Center for a deep dive into the history and culture of Japan's ancient pilgrimage routes.

Before heading back to Jokiin for the night, we also did a little shopping at the Kumano Kodo Information Center, picking up some snacks and drinks for tomorrow's hike. It's always a good idea to be prepared, especially when traveling with a family. For dinner, we enjoyed a hearty meal at Kumano Kodo Omotenashi-Kan, savoring the flavors of local cuisine and reflecting on the day's adventures. The restaurant was warm and inviting, a welcome refuge after a long day on the trail. We shared stories and laughter, strengthening our bond as a family and creating memories that we would cherish for years to come.


Discover Kumano Kodo Omotenashi-Kan: A charming cafe offering delicious coffee and local cuisine along Japan's historic pilgrimage route.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I can't help but feel a sense of gratitude for this incredible experience. The Kumano Kodo has already exceeded my expectations, offering a unique blend of physical challenge, spiritual reflection, and cultural immersion. I am eager to see what tomorrow brings as we continue our pilgrimage towards Kumano-Nachi Taisha, Nachi Waterfall, and Seiganto-ji. I'm especially looking forward to witnessing the Nachi Waterfall, one of Japan's tallest waterfalls. I know that tomorrow will bring new challenges and new rewards, and I am ready to embrace them with open arms. I hope you'll join us as we continue our journey, discovering the hidden gems and spiritual wonders of the Kumano Kodo.