This 7 Day Japan Kumano Kodo walk is a pack-free guided walk and explores the 1000 year old Kumano Kodo ancient pilgrim trail that stretches across the picturesque mountains of the Keii Peninsula in Japan, a region many visitors to Japan never get to see. We have hand-crafted this journey to give you the best of this region, we have avoided the busy train transport between locations and have included private transfers which allow our guests the flexibility in walking options each day. We have hand-picked the finest accommodation in each area with their unique Japanese style and extra comfort, as we understand alot of guests don’t want to sleep on thin futon mattresses on the ground for 6 nights.
Our walk takes us through UNESCO World Heritage expanse through a mesmerizing tapestry of mountain forests, revealing the Grand Shrines nestled amidst the green canopy. We begin by traversing a section of the northern trail, leading to Koyasan, a serene Buddhist temple town seemingly untouched by the passage of time. Then journey south upon the imperial Nakahechi Route immersing yourself in the landscapes woven with history, spirituality, and culture. This tour commences and finishes in Osaka making it easier to join your tour and continue your journey in Japan afterwards.
No public trains or buses
We offer Flexible Walking options so that we can accommodate those that want to conquer the full route, those opting for a leisurely amble, or those wanting a short day or a day of relaxation, the choice is entirely yours. With our exclusive private transfers, you can bypass public transport woes such as waiting for local trains or buses, and your time can be spent savouring the moments, not the timetables. Moreover, our private transfers afford the flexibility to veer off the conventional path, ensuring a seamless and delightful journey even when weather whims dictate adjustments to our daily itinerary.
Carry as little as your water, camera and lunch
Crafted with meticulous detail, this journey is tailored for Pack-Free walking, affording our cherished guests the joy of savouring the landscapes unhindered by the weight of cumbersome bags. Indeed, the essence of walking lies in its enjoyment, not endurance. Throughout each day, our guests will traverse with nothing more than a modest day pack, aptly sized to accommodate essentials like lunch, water, and a camera. Meanwhile, the task of transporting your luggage to the next abode rests in capable hands.
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The small town of Koyasan is nestled deep within the cedar forests of Wakayama Prefecture. We spend one night in a Buddhist Temple Lodge accommodation at Rengejoin. Our guests stay in the best rooms in spacious deluxe or junior suites with private bathrooms. Guests will stay in Japanese-style accommodation with extra comfort and the opportunity to join morning or afternoon meditation with the resident monk.
Rooms type: Deluxe or Junior rooms with ensuite bathrooms. Mix of western beds and traditional Japanese futons.
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Set high on the top of the mountain, the Takahara Lodge offers spectacular views over the valley below. Relax on the terrace and take in the views. The Onsen offers the opportunity to soak your tired muscles after a day’s walk. Meals are prepared using local produce, such as vegetables and freshly caught river fish.
Rooms type: Mix of western beds and traditional Japanese beds.
*Please note: As this is a remote area with very few properties, the accommodation this night is humble lodgings. Rooms are basic and there is share onsen facilities. As there are a small number of rooms, a single supplement is not available on our night stay here. Twin/triple share rooms are available.
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Ideally situated in one of Kumano Hongu hot spring villages, Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri is accommodation with free flowing hot springs. Surrounded by the mountains and trees of Kii, and set on the Yomura River the hotel is perfectly situated to explore the nearby walks and enjoy a relaxing 3 night stay. We have specifically chosen this hotel as their rooms feature both Western beds and Japanese traditional futon mattresses within the same room, so you have the option for more comfortable beds off the ground. Rooms have their own toilet. The hotel also has a sake bar, private hot spring baths as well as public baths and a restaurant with table dining also off the ground.
Rooms type: Japanese & Western style rooms with toilets.
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Perched on a scenic peninsula in Katsuura, Hotel Urashima Sanjokan offers a truly unique seaside retreat. Famous for its dramatic ocean views and natural hot spring baths inside caves, this hotel provides an unforgettable experience that blends nature and tradition. Guests can soak in the spectacular Bokido Cave Onsen, carved into the rock with panoramic views of the Pacific Ocean.
Rooms type: Japanese/Western style rooms with futon beds and bathrooms.
Koyasan
Amidst the captivating tranquility of Koyasan, an enchanting opportunity awaits, an invitation to join a meditation session guided by a Japanese monk. Immersing yourself in the serene ambiance of a traditional meditation hall, adorned with intricate wooden carvings and the soft glow of candlelight. A unique and wonderful experience.
Zen Meditation, Tea and Reflection at Yusenji Temple
Nestled in the forested hills near Kumano Hongu Taisha, a visit to Yusenji Temple offers a peaceful pause during our Kumano Kodo journey. Guided by a resident monk, you are introduced to zazen, a traditional seated meditation practice central to Zen Buddhism, with gentle guidance on posture, breathing, and awareness. The quiet temple setting, surrounded by cedar forest, encourages stillness and reflection after time on the trail. The experience concludes with Japanese tea and seasonal sweets, providing a simple ritual to ease back into the day. Many guests find this moment deeply grounding and a meaningful insight into the spiritual heart of the pilgrimage.
Served with local Sake or beer
During your journey, you will have the pleasure of indulging in the captivating world of traditional Japanese cuisine, lovingly crafted from the finest local ingredients. To enhance your dining experience, each dinner is thoughtfully accompanied by a selection of imported wines.
*PLEASE NOTE: In regional Japan, dinners are often comprised of several dishes served together, it’s important to note that special dietary needs cannot typically be accommodated in these regions.
to Shingu
Embark on a river adventure through Kumano’s heritage! For more than a millennium, pilgrims have travelled by boat along this river to complete their Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, linking Kumano Hongu Taisha in Hongu and Kumano Hayatama Taisha in Shingu. Step into history by sailing in traditional flat-bottom boats, mirroring the journeys of ancient pilgrims, wondering at the numerous waterfalls along the way and dramatic scenery.
World Class Guides
Guides are essential in delivering the ultimate walking experience. You’ll be accompanied by two local guides who have a passion and enthusiasm for the area who will accompany you for the entire trip ensuring we deliver a world-class walk up to our high standards.
Your 7 day walking holiday includes:
Wow-mazing Experiences
The Best accommodation in each area:
Meals
Local Guides
DAY 1: DEPART OSAKA – WALK KOYASAN CHOISHI PATH
GETTING THERE:
Guests are required to arrange their own flights to Osaka to arrive the day before the tour begins. Direct international flights into Osaka are available, or alternatively, you may fly into Tokyo and take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka, approximately 2.5 hours in duration.
TERRAIN: The trail encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, moss-covered stone markers, and intricate tree root networks.
WALK GRADE: 8kms. 4.5 hours walking with breaks. Medium Grade. Good level of fitness required. Total elevation gain: 794m. Descent: 460m
FLEXIBLE WALKING OPTION: Shorter walking option available today
ITINERARY: Meet your guides in the foyer of the Aloft Hotel Osaka Dojima at 7.45am. We leave Osaka by private vehicle, heading into the forested mountains of the Kii Peninsula to reach the sacred town of Koyasan. Founded over 1,200 years ago, Koyasan is a centre of Shingon Buddhism and home to over a hundred temples nestled among tranquil cedar groves. Today’s walk follows the Choishi Path (Choishi-michi), a historic pilgrimage trail once walked by countless devotees making their way to the holy mountain. Marked by stone stupas (choishi) placed every 109 metres, the path offers an unbroken spiritual thread connecting modern-day walkers with the pilgrims of centuries past. As we ascend through atmospheric forests and pass ancient markers draped in moss, the trail evokes a powerful sense of reverence and continuity. Our walk concludes at the striking Daimon Gate, the towering crimson gateway that signifies the entrance to Koyasan. From here, we continue to our evening accommodation at the serene and highly regarded Rengejoin Temple, where deluxe rooms with private bathrooms provide a rare blend of comfort and authenticity. This afternoon, guests may participate in a guided meditation session led by one of the temple’s resident monks, a peaceful opportunity to reflect and reconnect (depending on our walk finish time, we may instead join the morning meditation the following day). As evening falls, savour a beautifully prepared traditional Japanese dinner served in the temple. Later, join an optional night walk through the lantern-lit Okunoin Cemetery, Japan’s largest and most sacred cemetery. This deeply moving journey leads to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism, offering a contemplative close to your day on the mountain.
DAY 2: WALK TAKIJIRI-OJI -TAKAHARA- MICHI-NO-EKI GYUBA-DOJI
WALK GRADE: Main Walk – Takijiri-Oji – Takahara – Michi-no-Eki Gyuba-doji. 12kms. 5-6 hours. Total elevation gain: 830m. Total elevation descent: 640m. Good level of fitness required. Grade: Medium- Hard. Terrain: Steep and sustained ascents, forest trails, uneven surfaces; a good level of fitness is required.
TERRAIN: The trail encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, intricate tree root networks, well-worn stone steps, and charming cobblestone sections.
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Flexible walking options are available today to suit your needs – see below.
ITINERARY: Before breakfast, there is another opportunity to join a morning meditation session. After a traditional Japanese vegetarian breakfast, we head south by private vehicle directly to Takijiri-Oji (1.5 hours drive), a faster and more direct route than travelling via Kii-Tanabe. The walk begins at Takijiri-Oji, one of the five major Oji shrines and a spiritually significant gateway on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Guests have the choice of a few flexible walking options as above. From here, we ascend through a forested trail rich in natural beauty and cultural history. About 15 minutes into the climb, we pass a series of striking boulders and the Tainai-kuguri cave, a symbolic spiritual passage where pilgrims once tested their faith. Further along the trail, the Takahara Kumano-jinja shrine appears, shaded by centuries-old camphor trees. Reaching the village of Takahara known as “Kiri-no-Sato” (Village in the Mist), you’ll be rewarded with sweeping views over the Hatenashi mountain range. Guests choosing the shorter walk will end here and enjoy a relaxed afternoon soaking up the views at the Takahara Organic Hotel. Those continuing the walk will descend into lush forests of cedar and cypress, their tall trunks forming towering corridors of shade. The trail winds past moss-draped stone markers, terraced slopes once cultivated by local villagers, and small sacred sites tucked into the landscape. Along the way, we pass Juju-oji, one of the many Oji shrines that once offered protection and spiritual guidance to pilgrims travelling to the Kumano Grand Shrines. Occasional clearings offer glimpses of remote hamlets nestled in the folds of the mountains. The trail reaches its highest point at the remains of the Uwada-jaya Teahouse, a peaceful rest spot before descending sharply past the Three-Fold Moon Viewing area, a place steeped in legend where a Yamabushi mountain ascetic is said to have experienced a miraculous vision of the Kumano deities. As we approach Michi-no-Eki Gyuba-doji, named after the statue of the legendary warrior-monk Kiso Yoshitsune riding an ox, the walk concludes with a final, steep descent. After the walk, we transfer back to the Takahara Organic Hotel. Tonight, enjoy a wholesome dinner featuring fresh, organic ingredients, paired with wine, as you unwind and take in the peaceful mountain surroundings.
Day 3: Walk Gyuba-doji to Kobiro-oji – Watarase Onsen
WALK GRADE: Main Walk – Gyuba-doji to Kobiro-oji. Total 8 kms. 5 hours. Elevation Gain: 115m. Elevation Descent. 100m. Medium Grade. Good level of fitness required.
TERRAIN: The trail encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, intricate tree root networks, well-worn stone steps, and charming cobblestone sections. The route includes steady climbs, especially after Chikatsuyu.
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Flexible walking option available today from Gyuba-doji to Tsugizakura-oji shrine. 5kms. 2.5 hours. Elevation Gain 115m.
ITINERARY: After breakfast, we transfer back to the trail to begin our walk from Gyuba-doji. The route today climbs steadily toward Hashiori-toge Pass, where we encounter the striking statue of Emperor Kazan, depicted symbolically riding both a horse and an ox, representing the spiritual duality of the pilgrimage. From this high point, we descend a beautifully preserved cobblestone staircase, arriving at a scenic viewpoint over Chikatsuyu Village below. To the left, across the Hiki-gawa River, we glimpse Chikatsuyu-oji Shrine, a site steeped in local legend. From here, the trail ascends again through quiet forest paths toward Kobiro-oji, passing ancient waymarkers and gentle ridges before reaching the junction at Tsugizakura-oji, known for its majestic centuries-old cedar trees and the nearby Toganoki-jaya teahouse site. Before continuing to Watarase Onsen, we pause near Hongu for a private Zazen meditation experience at Yusenji Temple, where a resident monk introduces us to seated Zen meditation, followed by traditional Japanese tea and seasonal sweets, offering a calm and reflective moment along the Kumano Kodo. We transfer to Watarase Onsen, a renowned hot spring village deeply rooted in pilgrimage culture. Thermal bathing is an essential ritual for purification before visiting Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, and Watarase offers some of the finest baths in the region. We check into Hotel Sasayuri, where we will spend the next three nights. This relaxing riverside retreat features spacious rooms that include both Western-style beds and traditional Japanese bedding, allowing you to choose your preferred comfort. The hotel also offers private open-air thermal baths perfect for unwinding after a day on the trail. This evening, we dress in a yukata (a casual kimono robe) and enjoy a beautifully prepared dinner in the hotel restaurant, highlighting seasonal local cuisine accompanied by wine.
Day 4: Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu Taisha
TERRAIN: The trail encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, intricate tree root networks, well-worn stone steps, and charming cobblestone sections.
WALK GRADE: Total 10kms. Good level of fitness required. 100m elevation.
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter walk to Hongu Taisha
WALK ITINERARY: Following a hearty breakfast, our day’s adventure unfolds as we start our walk in Hosshinmon-oki and make our way to Kumano Hongu Taisha making our way through majestic forests and remote, picturesque villages. Along this immersive odyssey, nature bestows upon us a series of awe-inspiring panoramic vistas, each more breathtaking than the last. It is at the sacred site of Fushiogami that our senses are graced by first glimpses of the monumental presence of the Hongu Taisha’s colossal torii shrine gate. Pressing onward along our path, we find ourselves gradually descending towards the Taisha. Here, the landscape undergoes a remarkable transformation. Contrasting starkly with the towering 33.9-meter-high torii gate, the Taisha complex emerges as a harmonious fusion of simplicity and elegance, blending seamlessly into the embracing arms of the surrounding forest. Afterwards, we returning to our accommodation at Watase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri. Tonight enjoy traditional cuisine served with wine.
Day 5: Walk Ukegawa – Koguchi
TERRAIN: The trail encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, intricate tree root networks, well-worn stone steps, and charming cobblestone sections.
WALK GRADE: Total 13kms. Good level of fitness required. 420m elevation.
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do the whole walk enjoy a shorter walk
ITINERARY: After breakfast in the restaurant, we begin our walk from Ukegawa as we journey along a captivating ascent towards Hyakken-gura along the way we see the Mastsuhata-jaya Teahouse remains. Once we reach the top of Hyakken-gura, we are treated to a sweeping panorama that sweeps across the landscape, revealing the true grandeur of our surroundings. Our walk proceeds along a winding forest track, immersing us in the heart of this enchanting woodland. The serenity of the forest embraces us, creating an atmosphere of tranquility and mystique. Eventually, our path gently descends, leading us to the remote and secluded village of Koguchi. Encircled by a formidable embrace of towering mountains and meandering rivers, Koguchi nestles itself in a pristine natural sanctuary, inviting us to explore its hidden charms and secrets. Afterwards we transfer back to our accommodation at the Hotel Sasayuri for dinner accompanied with wine.
Day 6: Walk from Koguchi to Grand Nachi Taisha Shrine
TERRAIN: The first section of the trail gains 800 meters of elevation in about 5 kilometers. (2.5 hours). Terrain encompasses a diverse terrain composed of earthy pathways, intricate tree root networks, well-worn stone steps, and charming cobblestone sections.
WALK GRADE: Total 14.53kms. Hard Grade. 8 hours walk. Good level of fitness required. Elevation gain 1260m. Descent 930m.
FLEXIBLE WALKING: Flexible walking options available today. For those not wanting to do this challenging walk, transfer with our driver directly to Nachi Taisha Shrine and waterfall either enjoy free time here or do a 5.5km return walk from Nachi Taisha to the Teahouse remains and back.
ITINERARY: After breakfast we make our way to Koguchi for our walk which takes us from Koguchi to the grand Nachi Taisha shrine. Today is a challenging walk meandering through enchanting forests and along lofty ridges, ancient stone walls of past terraced rice paddies, leading us on a rollercoaster of ascents and descents until we finally conquer the summit with its spectacular sweeping views. It is a challenging walk but the rewards are well worth the effort as you reach the summit we are gifted with sweeping vistas that stretch beyond the rugged mountains, to the vast expanse of the Ocean. As we continue our descent, the trail guides us to the sacred grounds of Nachi Taisha shrine, the serene Seiganto-ji temple, and the awe-inspiring Nachi-no-Otaki waterfalls the tallest in Japan. These majestic falls command our reverence with an uninterrupted plunge of 133 meters, a true marvel of nature’s grandeur. Together they form an exquisite tableau of natural and spiritual beauty, where the cascading waters of Nachi-no-Otaki add a breathtaking touch of grace to the serene grandeur of the shrine’s sacred surroundings. After our walk we transfer to the coast to the fishing village of Kii-Katsuura. Tonight we spend the evening at the Hotel Urashima Kii Katsuura offering beautiful views over the bay. Tonight we enjoy dinner in the superb restaurant. Dinner is buffet style but the choices are endless and the displays of food are a work of art served with wine.
Day 7: Traditional Pilgrim Boat cruise – Kumano Hayatama Tasiha Grand Shrine – Osaka
On our final day, we make our way to the Kumano River to enjoy a traditional Boat cruise. For over 100 years pilgrims made their journey to Kumano in traditional wooden flat-bottom boats. Enjoy spectacular views of the river as we cruise down the picturesque gorge taking in stunning scenery and magnificent waterfalls along the way. Our boat arrives in to Shingu where we disembark to visit the Kumano Hayatama Tasiha Grand Shrine which has occupied the same spot on the Kumano Riverbank since at least the 12th century. It is included as part of the UNESCO World Heritage site “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range. We head to lunch at a local Sushi train for a unique Japanese experience. Afterwards, we transfer by private vehicle and make our way back to Osaka, with drop off at the Aloft Osaka arriving at approximately 5.30pm the end of a remarkable journey.
PLEASE NOTE: This walk can be joined to our Japanese Nakasendo Way walk to form a 14 day journey – click here to find out more.
EARLYBIRDS SAVINGS
Prices in AUD (Australian Dollars)
PRIVATE GROUPS:
Departure date of your choice is subjective to availability. A minimum group size of 8 required. Prices are equal to Past Travellers’ discounted rates. Based on twin share – see details about Single Supplement and upgrade extras.
Please contact us for more details on (02) 9975 4553 or email: walks@lifesanadventure.com.au
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SOLO TRAVELLERS & EXTRAS:
If you are a solo traveller willing to share a room, we will attempt to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we can’t find you a match of the same gender by around 12 weeks prior to the tour, you will be charged the single supplement cost. Subject to availability at time of booking. For those wanting to guarantee their own room, a single supplement cost will be charged at the time of booking. Subject to availability. *Please note: As Takahara Lodge has a small number of rooms, a single supplement is not available on our night stay here. Twin/triple share rooms are available.
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INTERNATIONAL FLIGHTS:
Please note your tour price does not include flights to / from to Japan. We are offering our clients a service to book their international flights and any other travel plans during their holiday. If you would like our Flights Specialist to organise these requirements, please email us at flights@lifesanadventure.com.au with your requirements.
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BOOKING TERMS AND CONDITIONS
Before you book please read our Booking Terms and Conditions. Click here.
SALE TICKET CONDITIONS:
* Super Earlybird, Earlybird and Spot Special Sale Tickets: Must be paid in full at time of booking. Refunds or cancellations are not permitted for Sale Tickets however, transfers to another date are permitted 12 weeks or more prior to departure (a $200 change fee will be incurred). Taking out Travel insurance is compulsory for all International tours and will come in handy in case unexpected circumstances prior to the trip, prevent you from joining this tour. Early bird or Spot Special discounts cannot be used in conjunction with another offer. We have partnered with Cover-More to provide travel insurance to our guests. To get a quote or purchase travel insurance directly with them Click here. To receive these special discounts, full payment must be made at the time of initial booking. Flexiwalk Add-On option not available on these tickets.
* Those who have travelled with Life’s An Adventure previously, receive a past passenger discount of $100. If booking online the discount appears when you enter your email address in the booking details, any issues contact our reservations staff.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
* Prices are per person in Australian dollars and include GST.
* A deposit of $500 per person is required to secure your booking. (unless taking advantage of Earlybird or Spot Specials in which full payment is required at time of booking).
* Note: If you are booking within 90 days of your departure date – we will require full payment at the time of booking
* Prices are based on twin share of rooms. If you are travelling solo you may be required to share with someone of the same gender. If this is not suitable you can request to pay a single supplement, however, limited single rooms are available per trip so are on a request basis.
* Card fees apply or contact us for bank transfer payment options. The following fees apply. Australian Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 1% +$0.20 per transaction, International Credit Cards including Visa and Mastercard 3.4% + $0.30 per transaction (payments in AUD). International clients can enquire with us about bank transfers in your own currency to avoid transaction fees.
* Payments must be made online via our secure payment page via credit card (Visa or Mastercard) or over the phone.
* Taking out Travel Insurance is compulsory for all international tours to cover items such as cancellation of tour due to minimum numbers not met, or adverse weather conditions, injury, evacuation, delayed flights, illness, etc. Click here
* Credit for cancelled activities. If a tour activity has been cancelled due to unforeseen circumstances a credit for this missed activity can be applied to any future bookings. Click here.