Journey Through the Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route
Explore the Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route, a UNESCO World Heritage site in Wakayama, Japan, rich in culture, nature, and spiritual significance.
The Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route is a spiritual and scenic hiking trail in Wakayama, Japan. It offers breathtaking landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and a serene atmosphere. Perfect for adventurers and spiritual seekers alike, this UNESCO World Heritage site invites you to explore its ancient paths lined with lush forests and historic shrines.
A brief summary to Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route
- Nakahechicho Fukusada, Tanabe, Nakahechicho Fukusada, Wakayama, 646-1432, JP
- Visit website
Local tips
- Start early in the morning to fully enjoy the trail and avoid the heat.
- Wear comfortable hiking shoes as the terrain can be uneven in some areas.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, as some stretches may not have facilities.
- Consider staying overnight at a local inn to experience traditional Japanese hospitality.
- Visit during the fall for stunning autumn foliage along the trail.
Getting There
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Car
If you are traveling by car, start from Tanabe City and head towards Nakahechicho Fukusada. Take Route 42 south and follow the signs for the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route. The destination is approximately 30 minutes away, so keep an eye out for the signs indicating the trail entrances along the way. Parking is available near the starting points of the pilgrimage route, but be mindful of any parking fees that may apply.
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Public Transportation - Bus
To reach the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route using public transportation, begin at Tanabe Station. From Tanabe Station, take the Nankai Bus bound for 'Nakahechi' or 'Kumano Nachi Taisha'. The bus ride takes around 40 minutes. Request the driver to drop you off at the nearest bus stop to the Nakahechi Route, such as 'Fukusada'. Once you arrive, follow the signs to the starting point of the pilgrimage. Please check the latest bus schedules and fares to plan your trip accordingly.
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Taxi
If you prefer a more direct route, you can take a taxi from Tanabe City to the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route. This option is more expensive, with fares typically ranging from 4,000 to 6,000 yen, depending on your exact starting point. Taxis can be hailed from the street or booked via a local taxi company. The journey will take around 30 minutes, providing you with a convenient and comfortable way to reach your destination.
Discover more about Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Pilgrimage Route
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Guest house Sora Chikatsuyu
4.0 km
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Third Place Kumano Kodo
5.6 km
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Kumano Hongu Heritage Center
20.0 km
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Kumano Kodo Guides
22.9 km
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Shirahama Midsea Observation Tower CORAL PRINCESS (SHIRAHAMA KEY TERRACE HOTEL SEAMORE)
25.4 km
Experience breathtaking views of Shirahama's stunning coastline at the Shirahama Midsea Observation Tower, a must-visit attraction in Wakayama, Japan.
Koguchi shizen-no-ie
26.1 km
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Senjojiki Rock Plateau
26.2 km
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Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Hall of Worship
33.8 km
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Kumano Kodo - Nakahechi Daimon-saka Pilgrim Route
34.3 km
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丸山千枚田
36.8 km
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Akagi Castle Ruins
37.3 km
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Nyonin-do Hall
46.2 km
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Kotonoura Onzan-Soh-En Garden
52.1 km
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Yata Pass (Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail Kiritoshi Road)
54.9 km
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Mitaraikyoutsuri Bridge
55.9 km
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Unmissable attractions to see
悪四郎山
0.5 km
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Fukusada-no-Oicho Large Gingko Tree
1.7 km
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Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, Michi-no-eki
3.0 km
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Takahara Kumano Shrine
3.3 km
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Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Museum of Art
4.1 km
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熊野古道中辺路
4.9 km
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Takijirioji-gu Togo Shrine
6.4 km
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Kumano Kodo Information Center
6.4 km
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Tsugizakura-Oji
7.1 km
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Kumano-Kodo Nakahechi Route (Chikatsuyu-Oji - Kobiro-Oji Section)
7.8 km
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Shiomi-togego'e Mountain Pass Crossing
8.0 km
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Fukugon-ji Temple
8.6 km
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Inabaneoji Shrine
14.4 km
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Hosshinmon-oji
15.9 km
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Mizunomi-oji
17.1 km
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Essential places to dine
小鳥の樹
4.3 km
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Tororoya
4.3 km
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オールド トレイル カフェテリア
7.0 km
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Kumano Winery Guest House /Dal Chef’s Table
9.6 km
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HANGOVER
18.4 km
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Watarase onsen cafe
18.7 km
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Akihei
18.8 km
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山伏そば 拝庵
19.1 km
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ときわや
19.4 km
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茶房珍重庵 本宮店
19.8 km
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しもじ 本宮店
19.9 km
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ミルク＆ビアホール九十九
24.2 km
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Yorozuya Eatery
24.3 km
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Kakinoate
39.9 km
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熊野のめざめ
40.1 km
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Guest House & Coffee Keyaki
3.0 km
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Hashiori-jaya
4.1 km
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KUMANOYASAI CAFE
4.2 km
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Kodo-no-Mori Anchan
6.4 km
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Yunomine Onsen Shop/Dining Hall
18.2 km
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Iseya
18.2 km
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Road Station Oku-kumanokodo Hongu
19.6 km
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ガラス屋・茶房「靖」
19.8 km
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茶房珍重庵 本宮店
19.8 km
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Toretore Market
22.1 km
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Fisherman's Wharf of Shirahama
24.9 km
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南方商店
26.3 km
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Sansaro Cafe
28.7 km
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ショッピングコーナー 印南SA (下り)
30.2 km
Explore the charm of Wakayama with unique souvenirs at Inami SA Shopping Corner, a must-visit stop for every traveler.
Moudemochi
33.8 km
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Minshuku Kuraya
18.1 km
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Guest House Okagesan
18.5 km
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宮ずし
19.9 km
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Why Kumano
40.2 km
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割烹BAR = EL CAMINO DEL POETA =
40.2 km
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THE SAILING BAR
82.2 km
Experience Sakurai's vibrant nightlife at The Sailing Bar, where exquisite cuisine meets a charming nautical atmosphere.
Peace
85.5 km
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Snack Night
85.5 km
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Roots
85.6 km
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Mix bar ゆいまーる 洲本店
85.6 km
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Tiara
85.6 km
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Ibis
85.6 km
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il Cielo
85.6 km
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Etoile
85.7 km
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Georges
85.7 km
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