A guidebook to walking Japan's UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, covering the Nakahechi, Choishimichi/Koyasan and Kohechi routes, as well as a Hongu loop and highlights of the Iseji route. Since many of the trails involve steep ascents and descents, a moderate level of fitness is required. Routes vary from 5 to 64km (3-40 miles). Some can be enjoyed in a single day or half-day, whereas the Nakahechi and Kohechi routes lend themselves to a 4-day mini-trek. GPX files available to download 1:50,000 mapping plus larger-scale maps for key towns and the main shrines Detailed information on public transport, accommodation and refreshments Advice on planning and preparation Fascinating insights into Japanese culture and spirituality
Originally from Melbourne, after graduating from university, Kat moved to Japan. Working as an adventure tour guide in Japan helped Kat develop her skills to seek out the local hotspots and also develop a love for hiking. 'A wise man climbs Mt Fuji, a fool climbs it twice' is a popular Japanese saying, so Kat climbed it 7 times. From Japan to Canada to London, she quit her office job in 2013 to walk the Camino de Santiago and has never looked back. She completed seven Caminos and walked over 10,000km in Spain, Portugal, England, Italy, Japan and America, including the 4240km Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada. Sadly Kat's life was cut short in early 2020. She is fondly remembered for her meticulous work, inspiration and energy.
Overview maps Map key Route summary tables Introduction History Japanese spirituality The pilgrimage trails Dual Pilgrim status Wildlife Group travel or independent? Getting there Getting around When to go Accommodation Food and drink Money Post, phones and internet Language Cultural etiquette Hiking in Japan What to take Luggage transfers Waymarking Maps and GPS Staying healthy and safe Using this guide The three grand shrines and Koyasan Kumano Hongu Taisha Kumano Hayatama Taisha Kumano Nachi Taisha Koyasan Hongu and surrounding area Route 1 Hongu loop walk (including Dainichi-goe and Akagi-goe) Nakahechi ??? Route 2 Nakahechi route Stage 1 Takijiri to Nonaka Stage 2 Nonaka to Kumano Hongu Taisha Stage 3 Kogumotori-goe route: Ukegawa to Koguchi Stage 4 Ogumotori-goe route: Koguchi to Kumano Nachi Taisha Koyasan ??? - Choishimichi ??? Route 3 Choishimichi route Kohechi ??? Route 4 Kohechi route Stage 1 Koyasan to Omata Stage 2 Omata to Miura-guchi Stage 3 Miura-guchi to Yanagimoto-bashi suspension bridge Stage 4 Yanagimoto-bashi suspension bridge to Kumano Hongu Taisha Iseji highlights ??? Route 5 Magose-toge Pass Route 6 Matsumoto-toge Pass Appendix A Facilities tables Appendix B Glossary Appendix C Useful contacts Appendix D Further reading
