Travel Inspiration: Kumano Kodo. Walking the Pilgrimage Path of Japan.
The Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage trails in the Kii Peninsula, in Japan’s Wakayama Prefecture. It is one of only two pilgrimage routes in the world designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, along with the Camino de Santiago in Spain. Made up of a series of interconnected routes, the trail passes through diverse landscapes including cedar and cypress tree forests and rice paddies.
The Kumano Kodo has its roots in Japan’s Shinto and Buddhist traditions, dating back more than 1,000 years. It was originally developed as a route for religious pilgrims traveling to the three grand Kumano shrines, collectively known as the Kumano Sanzan: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha. During the Heian period the collection of routes became popular among aristocrats, inspiring the Nakahechi Route, today’s most popular route which travels in the footsteps of the imperial family.
Although a minimum level of fitness is required for this journey, your private guide and driver will adjust your days according to your hiking wishes.
During our 12-day travel itinerary, explore the ancient city of Kyoto before heading to sacred Koyasan where simple temple lodgings await. The next few days are spent from point-to-point with your private driver and guide before ending in vibrant Tokyo, a stark contrast to the serenity of the Kumano Kodo.
Would you like to visit Japan?
The details of each R. Crusoe journey are unique and special — much like an architect’s renderings or a chef’s secret sauce. Have one of our real human travel planners send you your own private copy of the fully customizable itinerary via the form below, including day-by-day activities, accommodations and base pricing. Don’t hesitate to ask them your questions—they’ll also be your personal travel concierge from the moment you get in touch.
