Journey to Japan’s Spiritual Roots
The ancient Kumano region is nestled in the verdant mountains of Wakayama Prefecture—the spiritual heartland of Japan. Worshipped for centuries, this lush and rugged area has been considered the abode of the gods.
Walk the spiritual Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, soak and relax in the healing waters of isolated onsen, dine on delicious local cuisine, interact with the friendly locals—what kind of adventures await you in this sacred land?
Kumano Kodo
熊野古道
For over 1000 years, people from all levels of society, including retired emperors and aristocrats, have made the arduous pilgrimage to the sacred sites in Kumano. These pilgrims used a network of routes, now called the Kumano Kodo, which stretched across the mountainous Kii Peninsula, weaving its way through remote villages and forests on a mixture of well-trodden trails and ancient cobblestone paths.
News ＆ Stories
Updates
IMPORTANT: For the most up-to-date information regarding COVID-19 in Japan, please refer to the World Health Organization and the Japan National Travel Organization's website.
Trail information: All Nakahechi routes are open.
For closures & changed opening times please refer to this article.
Please check your country's official travel advisories for the most updated information in order to make the most aware decision about your travel plans, and take adequate precaution for your journey.
The Kumano Kodo is open with some detours in place.
Articles
- News & Updates
Temporary Closures List — As of May 29, 2020 (Fri）
Because of the current Covid-19 situation there are unscheduled closures and ch... - News & Updates
The World is One. We are the Same.
“The world is one. We are the same”, has been an integral experience for people... - Hints & Tips
Dealing with Garbage on the Trail
What do we do with our trash, Mike? I don't know where to throw it away?
I g... - Hints & Tips
Kumano Kodo Trekking Backpack Contents
What’s in My Bag?
Hi, I’m Mike, a resident and local guide
for the Kumano Ko... - Media & Accolades
2020 Hometown Development Grand Prize Award Winner
We are thrilled to announce that the Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau has been... - Places & Stories
Creating a New Model of Grassroots Community-based Tourism in the Sacred Region of Kumano
Interview of Brad Towle for the Japan Ministry of Foreign Affairs
Sacred Kum... - Media & Accolades
Japan Tourism Awards 2019-Double Award Winner
The Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau is proud to announce that we were honored...
Getting Started
Detailed pilgrimage route maps.
Local bus access information.
Sample trips for inspiration.
Short, fun and informational videos.
Way of St.James & the Kumano Kodo.
Find a place to dine on local cuisine.
A popular reference and souvenir book.
Baggage logistics during your trip.
Onsen
Reservations
KUMANO TRAVEL
Official Community Reservation System
KUMANO TRAVEL is the official community reservation system for the region, an international award-winning new model of grassroots tourism development. By making reservations locally with KUMANO TRAVEL you are directly supporting our community.
Over 1000 Years’ Experience, Quality Personal Service, Intimate Knowledge, Locally Owned & Operated, Travelers’ Safety Net, Responsible & Sustainable, Freedom to Discover, Secure Booking, Onsite Travel Support Center…
One of the most progressive tourism outfits in all Japan. [Lonely Planet]
Amazing resource of information! We couldn’t have planned the trip without it. [Guest]