Kumano Kodo, Japan

Kumano Kodo, Japan
  • Duration: 8 Days (approx.)
  • Location: Osaka
  • Product code: KUM

Emperor’s Pilgrimage walk

Level 4: Steep ascents and descents, combination forest paths and many, many stone stairs, longer kilometres.

Journey to Japan to trek the historic Kumano Kodo Trail.  For over 1000 years people from all walks of life have been making this ancient pilgrimage. The trail weaves its way through stunning forested mountains and small villages to the Grand Shrine of Hongu, before finishing near the Pacific Ocean at the Nachi Shrine and waterfall. Walking the ancient Kumano Kodo is an ideal way to experience the unique cultural landscape of Japan’s countryside. Stay in comfortable hotels and experience the real Japan while enjoying sightseeing in Osaka and Kyoto, plus a little Japanese nightlife along the way!


OVERVIEW:

Day 1: Osaka

Arrive Osaka and overnight luxury hotel.

Day 2: Osaka & Kii-Tanabe

Backstreet tours morning in Osaka, train to Kii - Tanabe.

Day 3: Kumano Kodo

Begin the Kumano Kodo Trek 13 km Takijiri Oji to Chikatsuyu Oji overnight at deluxe Ryokan .

Day 4: Kumano Kodo

Local bus to start. Trek 21km from Tsugizakura Oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, explore temple and return to Ryokan

Day 5: Kumano Kodo

Final stage of Nakahechi route, Trek 16 km to Nachi San and continue to Shirahama for overnight at beachside resort with elegant onsen.

Day 6: Kii-Katsuura to Kyoto

Early morning tuna market visit. Trek 5 km along ocean front and train journey to Kyoto. Overnight at boutique hotel in Kyoto

Day 7: Kyoto

Visit temple, pilgrim walk and sight seeing in Kyoto. Exquisite dinning experience.

Day 8: Kyoto

Free day exploring Kyoto

INCLUSIONS:

  • 8 days fully guided trek and experiences with GirlsTrek
  • Trek the ancient pilgrimage – Kumano Kodo
  • 7 – 8 hours average time per trekking day
  • Traditional Ryokans with onsens
  • All accommodation on a twin share basis*
  • Sightseeing Kyoto & temple entry
  • Exquisite dinning experiences
  • Local transport includes train travel between cities, bus and private transfers on trek
  • Meals per itinerary
  • GirlsTrek Gift
  • Trip specific packing list with expert advice and great discounts
  • Information get together to detail the trip and answer any of your questions
  • Private group chat for messages and photos
  • At home training programme to prepare you for your trek
* You may choose a single supplement at checkout


Testimonial from 2023 departure

Good Morning Frith!



I continue to reel off memories with a smile of my
experience in Japan.  I feel fortunate to
have been given this opportunity with your admirable experience.  I had never been and it opened a world to me
that I do genuinely hope to return to experience more. 

It is a country full of so many variables and we
only experienced one pocket of it really. 
I find myself closing my eyes and revisiting the astounding beauty of
the forests along the Kumano Kodo.  Three
full days of this is something I will never forget and it was so contrasting to
having spent some time in Osaka.  In
addition, the company of the Ladies, the onsen’s and over all traditions that
we were so fortunate to embrace was very special.  New experiences at another level in a culture
that cannot be appreciated until you visit. 



I could let another week pass without saying a big
‘wholehearted’ thank you Frith.  I also
include in that of course, Helen.  Your
memories fade but there are moments that implant and the cohesive group of
woman on this trip was something I will always remember.  Trekking brings together mind like people and
the environment that we share on these walks certainly brings out the best one can
give.  On a light note before I finish,
overcoming a dip in an onsen is another one of those moments.



All the very best always and thank you again!



Jane Ox