Exploring the Spiritual Trails of Kumano Kodo

Homeward Bound: A Day of Reflection and Gratitude

As our journey along the Kumano Kodo draws to a close, I find myself filled with a mix of emotions: a sense of accomplishment, a tinge of sadness that our adventure is ending, and an overwhelming feeling of gratitude for the experiences we've shared. Today was less about conquering miles and more about soaking in the last moments of this spiritual landscape.

We started our day with a hearty breakfast at KUMANOYASAI CAFE. The owner, Shino, is a lovely person who makes excellent bagels. Lena and I enjoyed the quiet atmosphere, reflecting on the past two weeks over coffee and freshly baked goods. It was a delightful and peaceful start to our final day on the trail.


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

After breakfast, we decided to revisit a section of the Yata Pass (Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail Kiritoshi Road). While we had explored parts of it before, we wanted to take our time and truly absorb the serene beauty of this ancient path. The sunlight filtering through the trees created a magical atmosphere, and the sounds of nature were incredibly soothing.


Experience the serenity and cultural richness of Yata Pass, an essential stop on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail in Wakayama, Japan.

The journey is the destination.

As we walked, Lena and I reminisced about our favorite moments from the trip. I recalled the stunning views from the mountaintops, the kindness of the locals we met along the way, and the peacefulness of the onsen we visited. Lena cherished the quiet moments in the forests, the intricate details of the shrines, and the delicious meals we shared. We both agreed that this pilgrimage had been a transformative experience, deepening our connection with nature, with each other, and with ourselves.

For lunch, we stopped at Sansaro Cafe, a cozy guesthouse and cafe known for its homestyle cooking and friendly atmosphere. We enjoyed a simple but satisfying meal, chatting with the owner and other hikers. The cafe had a lovely, tranquil vibe, and we felt right at home. Lena particularly enjoyed playing with Haru, the host's dog. It was a perfect spot to relax and recharge before continuing our day of reflection.


Experience warm hospitality at Sansaro Cafe in Shingu – your cozy retreat with delightful coffee and local charm along the Kumano Kodo.

In the afternoon, we visited the Road Station Oku-kumanokodo Hongu. It was a great place to pick up some local souvenirs and snacks. We bought some Otonashi Tea, a local tea harvested in the Kumano area, as a memento of our journey. We also found some interesting local crafts and produce. It was a nice way to support the local community and bring a piece of Kumano Kodo back home with us.


Discover local flavors and beautiful scenery at Road Station Oku-kumanokodo Hongu, the ideal rest stop in Wakayama Prefecture.

Our final dinner on the Kumano Kodo was at Kumagoro, a restaurant recommended by a local. We savored the flavors of authentic Japanese cuisine, reflecting on the incredible culinary experiences we've had throughout our trip. The meal was a perfect ending to our pilgrimage, a celebration of the region's rich culture and traditions.


Experience the essence of traditional izakaya dining at Kumagoro in Shingu - where authentic flavors meet warm hospitality.

As I sit here tonight, writing this final blog post, I am filled with a profound sense of gratitude. This journey has been more than just a hike; it has been a spiritual awakening. The Kumano Kodo has challenged me physically, mentally, and emotionally, but it has also rewarded me with breathtaking beauty, profound insights, and a deeper appreciation for the simple things in life.

I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my beloved wife, Lena. Her unwavering support, her infectious enthusiasm, and her keen observations have enriched this journey in countless ways. I am also grateful for the people we've met along the way, the fellow pilgrims, the friendly locals, and the welcoming hosts who have made us feel like part of their community.

This trip also gave me a lot to think about regarding my work as a sound engineer. The sounds of the Kumano Kodo – the rustling leaves, the flowing streams, the chirping birds – have created a unique acoustic experience that I will try to incorporate into my Foley art.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back to Potsdam. While I am excited to return home, I know that a part of me will always remain on the sacred trails of Kumano Kodo. This pilgrimage has left an indelible mark on my soul, and I will carry its lessons with me wherever I go. I am already looking forward to planning our next adventure, perhaps exploring other ancient trails or immersing ourselves in different cultures.

Thank you for joining us on this incredible journey. I hope that our experiences have inspired you to explore the world, to embrace new challenges, and to seek out your own spiritual paths. Until next time, farewell, and may your travels be filled with wonder and discovery.

Safe travels, friends!

Georgios