Family Pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo

A Journey's End, A New Beginning

As our eleven-day pilgrimage on the Kumano Kodo draws to a close, I find myself filled with a sense of profound peace and gratitude. This journey, undertaken with Eleanor and Kenji, has been more than just a trip; it has been a transformative experience, weaving its way into the very fabric of our family's story. Today, our final day, was a culmination of all the beauty, reflection, and connection we've experienced along the way.

We started our day with breakfast at KUMANOYASAI CAFE. The cafe was a cozy spot, tucked away in a quiet corner of the town. The aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the sight of locally sourced vegetables filled the air. I ordered a traditional Japanese breakfast set, while Eleanor opted for a Western-style toast with avocado. Kenji, as always, was thrilled with his mini pancakes, topped with a generous serving of fresh fruit. The atmosphere was relaxed, and we savored every bite, knowing it was our last morning in this serene corner of Japan.


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

After breakfast, we ventured into Yoshino Kumano National Park. It felt fitting to spend our final day immersed in the natural beauty that had defined our entire journey. The park was alive with the sounds of birds chirping and the gentle rustling of leaves. We chose a relatively easy trail, mindful of Kenji's little legs, and set off to explore. The path wound through ancient cedar forests, sunlight filtering through the canopy in ethereal shafts. We paused frequently, taking in the breathtaking views and capturing the moments with my camera. Eleanor, ever the nature enthusiast, pointed out various species of plants and insects, sharing her knowledge with Kenji, who was captivated by every new discovery.


Explore the breathtaking beauty of Yoshino Kumano National Park, a serene escape into nature's heart in Japan's Nara Prefecture, rich in culture and adventure.

As we walked, I couldn't help but reflect on the past eleven days. The Kumano Kodo had challenged us physically, but it had also brought us closer together as a family. We had shared laughter, quiet moments of reflection, and a deep appreciation for the simple things in life. I thought about the bustling streets of Bristol, our home, and how different this experience was. Here, amidst the ancient trails and serene landscapes, we had found a sense of peace that was rare and precious.

The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single step.

For lunch, we stopped at Kumagoro, a charming little restaurant known for its local cuisine. We sat at a traditional tatami mat table and ordered a variety of dishes to share. The flavors were exquisite, a testament to the region's rich culinary heritage. Kenji particularly enjoyed the udon noodles, slurping them up with gusto. Eleanor and I savored the delicate flavors of the fresh sashimi and grilled fish. The restaurant was filled with locals and fellow travelers, all sharing stories and laughter. It felt like a fitting place to celebrate the end of our pilgrimage.


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

In the afternoon, we continued our exploration of Yoshino Kumano National Park, venturing deeper into the forest. We stumbled upon a hidden waterfall, cascading down moss-covered rocks into a crystal-clear pool. The sight was mesmerizing, and we spent several minutes simply watching the water dance and sparkle in the sunlight. Kenji was particularly fascinated, throwing pebbles into the pool and giggling with delight. It was moments like these that made the journey so special, the simple joys shared amidst the beauty of nature.

As the day drew to a close, we made our way back to town, our hearts full of memories and gratitude. For our final dinner, we chose Akihei, a restaurant known for its elegant ambiance and refined cuisine. The meal was a celebration of our journey, a chance to savor the flavors of Japan one last time. We ordered a multi-course tasting menu, each dish a work of art. The presentation was impeccable, and the flavors were complex and nuanced. It was a truly unforgettable dining experience.


Discover the essence of Japanese culinary art at Akihei in Tanabe - where tradition meets flavor in every exquisite dish.

After dinner, we decided to visit Wine Kumano for a final toast to our adventure. The bar was cozy and inviting, with a wide selection of local and international wines. We ordered a bottle of Japanese wine and sat at a small table, reminiscing about our favorite moments from the trip. Kenji, tired but happy, fell asleep in Eleanor's arms. As we sipped our wine, I felt a deep sense of contentment. The Kumano Kodo had been a journey of discovery, not just of a place, but of ourselves. It had strengthened our bonds as a family and given us memories that would last a lifetime.


Experience authentic local cuisine and exquisite wines at Wine Kumano, a must-visit restaurant in Wakayama for food and wine lovers.

Looking back, I realize that this pilgrimage was more than just a vacation; it was a spiritual journey. The Kumano Kodo is a place where the veil between the physical and spiritual worlds seems thin, where one can connect with nature and with oneself on a deeper level. I am grateful for the opportunity to have shared this experience with my family. I know that the lessons we learned and the memories we made will stay with us long after we return to Bristol.

As I write this, I am filled with a mix of emotions. Sadness that our journey is coming to an end, but also excitement for what lies ahead. I know that we will carry the spirit of the Kumano Kodo with us, wherever we go. And I hope that one day, we will return to these ancient trails, to once again walk in the footsteps of pilgrims and find solace in the beauty of nature.

Tomorrow, we begin our journey back home. The trip ends, but the memories will be with us forever. I am already looking forward to sharing our experiences with friends and family, and to planning our next adventure. Until then, I will cherish the moments we spent on the Kumano Kodo, a place that has captured my heart and soul.

Thank you for joining us on this journey. I hope that our experiences have inspired you to explore the world and to connect with the people and places that make it so special.

Safe travels,
Shota