Family Pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo

Finding Peace in Kumano Kodo Park

Today marked the tenth day of our family's pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo Park, and it was a day of serene reflection amidst nature's beauty. We explored the tranquil Kumano Kodo Park, savored the local flavors at charming eateries, and found moments of peace that resonated deeply within us. It’s amazing how a simple walk in nature can bring so much clarity and joy.


Explore the tranquil beauty of Kumano Kodo Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site rich in nature and spirituality in Wakayama, Japan.

The day began with a hearty breakfast at Hinoki Steak House. I know, steak for breakfast might sound a bit unconventional in Japan, but it was a delightful experience. The restaurant had a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the staff were incredibly friendly. I opted for the Kumano beef hamburger steak, a local specialty. It was juicy and flavorful, a perfect start to a day of exploration. Eleanor enjoyed a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Kenji devoured his mini-hamburgers with gusto. It's funny how even in a foreign land, some things, like a child's love for hamburgers, remain universal. It reminded me of our favorite little cafe back in Bristol.


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

After breakfast, we made our way to Kumano Kodo Park. The park is a beautiful expanse of greenery, offering a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of daily life. As we strolled through the park, the fresh air and the sounds of nature enveloped us. The towering trees, the gentle streams, and the vibrant flora created a picturesque setting. It was the perfect place to reflect on our journey so far. I found myself thinking about my parents back in Matsumoto, and how much they would have loved to walk these trails with us. I made a mental note to bring them here someday.

The best view comes after the hardest climb.

This proverb perfectly encapsulates the spirit of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, where physical exertion leads to spiritual reward and breathtaking vistas.

Kenji, ever the curious explorer, was fascinated by everything around him. He chased butterflies, collected colorful leaves, and even tried to catch a small fish in one of the streams. Eleanor and I watched him with amusement, grateful for the opportunity to share these experiences with him. It's moments like these that make traveling with family so special. We stopped at several viewpoints along the way, each offering stunning panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. The scenery was simply breathtaking. I took numerous photos, trying to capture the beauty of the landscape, but no picture could truly do it justice. You have to be there to feel the energy of the place, to breathe in the fresh mountain air, and to witness the sheer magnificence of nature.

For lunch, we stopped at the Fushiogami Teahouse. This charming little teahouse is nestled in a tranquil village, surrounded by tea plantations and terraced fields. It felt like stepping back in time. The teahouse is run by local ladies who serve handmade snacks and coffee made with hot spring water. We sat on tatami mats, enjoying the simple yet delicious fare. I tried the Otonashi-cha, a local tea made from leaves harvested in the surrounding villages. It had a unique, earthy flavor that I found quite refreshing. Eleanor opted for a traditional Japanese sweet, while Kenji enjoyed a bowl of udon noodles. It was a delightful culinary experience, a true taste of rural Japan.


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

After lunch, we spent some time at the Nachisan Sightseeing Center. This center offers a wealth of information about the Kumano Kodo, including its history, culture, and natural environment. We watched a short film about the pilgrimage route and learned about the various shrines and temples along the way. It was fascinating to delve deeper into the history of this ancient path and to understand its significance in Japanese culture. Kenji, surprisingly, was quite engaged, asking questions about the monks and the pilgrims who had walked these trails centuries ago.


Discover unique souvenirs and delightful treats at the Nachisan Sightseeing Center, your go-to destination in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama.

As the afternoon wore on, we continued our exploration of the park. We visited several small shrines and temples, each with its own unique charm and history. We lit incense, offered prayers, and took a moment to reflect on our personal journeys. It was a deeply spiritual experience, one that resonated with me on a profound level. I felt a sense of connection to the past, to the generations of pilgrims who had walked these trails before us.

In the evening, we had dinner at Takehara, a local restaurant known for its tuna dishes. Katsuura is famous for its tuna, thanks to the nearby fishing port, and Takehara did not disappoint. I ordered the tuna sashimi, which was incredibly fresh and flavorful. Eleanor tried the grilled tuna, while Kenji, of course, opted for the tuna sushi. The restaurant had a cozy, family-friendly atmosphere, and the staff were attentive and welcoming. It was the perfect way to end a day of exploration and reflection. This was our first proper meal after days of hiking, and it was incredibly satisfying. The tranquility of the countryside was perfectly captured by the restaurant.


Experience authentic Japanese seafood in Takehara – where fresh ingredients meet exquisite culinary craftsmanship.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I feel a sense of peace and contentment. Today was a day of simple pleasures, of connecting with nature, of savoring local flavors, and of reflecting on our journey. The Kumano Kodo is more than just a pilgrimage route; it's a path to self-discovery, a journey of the soul. I am grateful for the opportunity to share this experience with my family, to create memories that will last a lifetime.

Looking ahead to tomorrow, our final day, we plan to visit Yoshino Kumano National Park and celebrate the end of our journey at Wine Kumano. I'm excited to see what adventures await us, and I'm determined to make the most of our last day in this beautiful and spiritual place. I think we might need to pick up a special toy for Kenji, to make up for forgetting his favourite. Eleanor has already started planning a return trip, perhaps in the autumn to see the leaves changing.

The weather today was typical for June in this region, with highs around 23°C and a mix of sunshine and clouds. We were fortunate that it didn't rain, although we were prepared with our rain jackets, just in case. The humidity was quite high, as expected, but it didn't detract from our enjoyment of the day. I’ve learned to appreciate the small things, like a comfortable pair of hiking boots and a reliable rain jacket.

As a software developer, I often find myself caught up in the digital world, spending hours in front of a computer screen. But experiences like this remind me of the importance of disconnecting from technology and connecting with nature. The Kumano Kodo has been a welcome escape from the digital realm, a chance to recharge my batteries and to reconnect with myself and my family.

Eleanor, with her background as a primary school teacher, always has a knack for finding educational opportunities for Kenji, even on vacation. Today, she taught him about the local flora and fauna, explaining the importance of preserving the natural environment. It's wonderful to see him learning and growing, absorbing the knowledge and experiences that this journey has to offer.

Tomorrow marks the end of our Kumano Kodo adventure, but the memories and lessons we've learned will stay with us forever. I'm excited to see what the future holds, and I'm grateful for the opportunity to share my experiences with you, my readers. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!

As we prepare to leave, I am reminded of a quote by John Muir:

“In every walk with nature, one receives far more than he seeks.”

This quote perfectly encapsulates our experience on the Kumano Kodo, where we found not only breathtaking scenery and cultural immersion but also a deeper connection to ourselves and our family. Until tomorrow, sayōnara!