5 Days& 4 Nights
Daily Tour
Unlimited
English, Espanol, Francais
Ancient Trails • Sacred Shrines • Temple Stays • Spiritual Renewal
Embark on a 5-day transformative journey along Japan’s ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes, a UNESCO World Heritage site that has drawn spiritual seekers for over 1,000 years. Walk through sacred forests, visit magnificent shrines, experience traditional temple stays, and immerse yourself in Japan’s deepest spiritual traditions. This carefully curated tour combines moderate hiking through breathtaking landscapes with cultural immersion, thermal hot springs, and authentic Japanese hospitality. Perfect for travelers seeking meaningful experiences, physical activity, and spiritual connection.
Urban Welcome & Pilgrimage Preparation
Afternoon: Arrive at Kansai International Airport, transfer to Osaka city hotel
Evening: Pilgrimage briefing with route maps and cultural orientation
Night: Traditional izakaya dinner in Osaka's Dotonbori district
Cultural Tip:
Learn basic Japanese phrases for temple etiquette
Packing Note:
Receive pilgrim stamp book (nōkyōchō) for temple stamps
Heart of the Pilgrimage & River Spirituality
Morning: Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu Taisha hike through sacred forests (7km, 3 hours)
Afternoon: Traditional fune boat experience down Kumano River to Hayatama Taisha
Evening: Katsuura onsen hotel with ocean-view hot springs
Spiritual Significance:
Hongu Taisha represents the "origin" of Kumano faith
River Journey:
The boat trip recreates ancient pilgrim arrival methods
Japan's Tallest Waterfall & Sacred Sites
Morning: Nachi Taisha visit and Nachi Falls viewing (133 meters tall)
Afternoon: Daimon-zaka trail walk under ancient cedar trees
Evening: Traditional ryokan stay with kaiseki dinner and private onsen
Water Worship:
The waterfall has been worshiped for over 1,400 years
Ancient Path:
The stone steps are lined with 800-year-old cedar trees
Mountain Spirituality & Buddhist Traditions
Morning: Koyasan cable car ascent through misty mountains
Afternoon: Okunoin Cemetery tour among ancient tombstones and memorials
Evening: Shukubo temple stay with shojin ryori vegetarian cuisine. Learn proper procedures for Buddhist temple lodging
Night Tour:
The cemetery takes on mystical atmosphere after dark
Spiritual Completion & Return Journey
Morning: Morning prayers with Buddhist monks (optional participation). Participate in sutra copying meditation session.
Afternoon: Kongobuji Temple visit and garden meditation
Evening: Transfer to Kansai Airport for international departure
Final Blessing:
Receive omamori (protective charm) from temple priest