Cultural and Spiritual Journey Through Kumano Kodo

Spiritual Reflections and Gastronomic Adventures

Today was a beautiful blend of spiritual reflection and culinary indulgence, a perfect encapsulation of what this Kumano Kodo pilgrimage has meant to me. Exploring ancient shrines and savoring local flavors, all while surrounded by the stunning landscapes of Japan, has been an experience I will forever cherish.

Our fourteenth day began with a hearty breakfast at KUMANOYASAI CAFE. Shino, the owner, greeted us with a warm smile and a spread of homemade bagels, muffins, and freshly brewed coffee. It’s amazing how a simple breakfast can set the tone for the entire day, and today was no exception. Fuelled up and ready, we set off to explore the day's attractions.


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

Our first stop was the Inabaneoji Shrine. Nestled at the base of a mountain, the shrine exuded a sense of tranquility and history. The path leading to the main hall was lined with ancient trees, their roots twisting like gnarled fingers into the earth. The air was thick with the scent of cedar and damp earth, creating a serene atmosphere that encouraged quiet contemplation. I found myself reflecting on the journey so far, the challenges we'd overcome, and the profound sense of peace I'd found in this ancient landscape. Jennifer, always the history enthusiast, shared some interesting facts about the shrine. Apparently, it has a history spanning over 1900 years and is deeply revered as the 'God of Flood Control'.


Experience the serene beauty and cultural significance of Inabaneoji Shrine, a must-visit Shinto site in the lush landscapes of Kamitonda.

The journey is the reward, and today's blend of spiritual exploration and culinary delights perfectly embodies the essence of our Kumano Kodo pilgrimage.

Next on our itinerary was the Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Hall of Worship. The climb up the stone steps was challenging, but the view from the top was more than worth it. The vermillion-lacquered worship hall stood out vividly against the green backdrop of the mountains, creating a breathtaking panorama. Inside, the air was thick with the scent of incense, and the soft chanting of the priests added to the mystical atmosphere. We took our time to explore the shrine grounds, admiring the intricate carvings and the ancient camphor tree, said to be around 850 years old. It was fascinating to learn about the shrine's history and its connection to the ancient practice of nature worship.


Discover Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine: A spiritual haven where ancient traditions meet breathtaking natural beauty in the heart of Wakayama.

After a morning of spiritual exploration, our stomachs were starting to rumble. We made our way to Fushiogami Teahouse for lunch. This charming cafe is a hidden gem along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. The warm and welcoming atmosphere made it the perfect place to unwind after a morning of exploration. The teahouse specializes in traditional Japanese teas and offers a selection of delectable snacks that paired perfectly with our beverages. I opted for a matcha latte, while Hans tried a local herbal blend. We shared a plate of mochi, savoring the sweet, chewy texture. The serene setting, with views of lush greenery and tranquil surroundings, enhanced the experience, allowing us to reconnect with nature.


Experience tranquility at Fushiogami Teahouse in Tanabe - your serene escape into traditional Japanese tea culture amidst stunning natural beauty.

In the afternoon, we indulged in a bit of shopping at Kumano-Nachi Taisha. The area around the shrine was filled with small shops selling local crafts, souvenirs, and snacks. I picked up a few small trinkets for Sophie and a beautiful hand-painted fan for myself. Hans found a sake set he couldn’t resist, a perfect memento of our time in Japan.


Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of Kumano-Nachi Taisha, a must-visit Shinto shrine in Japan's stunning Wakayama mountains.

As evening approached, we made our way to Hinoki Steak House for dinner. This steakhouse is renowned for its commitment to quality and flavor, serving only the finest cuts of meat sourced from local suppliers. The inviting ambiance combined traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comfort, creating a warm and welcoming environment for diners. As we stepped inside, the tantalizing aroma of grilled steaks filled the air, setting the stage for a memorable meal. We both ordered Kumano beef steaks, cooked to perfection and served with a selection of fresh sides and sauces. The meat was incredibly tender and flavorful, a true culinary delight. We savored every bite, washing it down with a bottle of local sake.


Experience the exquisite flavors of premium steaks at Hinoki Steak House in Nachikatsuura - where every bite is crafted with care.

Reflecting on the day, I realized how much I appreciated the balance between spiritual exploration and sensory indulgence. The Kumano Kodo is not just a physical journey; it's a journey for the soul, a chance to reconnect with nature, history, and oneself. And of course, it’s a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the incredible cuisine of Japan with friends.

Tomorrow marks the final day of our Kumano Kodo adventure. We plan to visit the National Natural Monument Onigajō Cliff and explore the Kumano-Kodo Ohechi Pilgrimage Route - Hokoritake-no-gunraku Colony. We'll also be having breakfast at Watarase onsen cafe, lunch at Tororoya, and a farewell dinner at Sukiya R42 Kumano. And perhaps, we'll cap it all off with a visit to Why Kumano, a local bar, to celebrate the end of our incredible journey. I’m excited to see what the final day holds and to soak in every last moment of this unforgettable experience. As Hans always says, "The best journeys always lead us home, but they also change us along the way."