Kumano Kodo: A network of Japanese pilgrimage trails

Kumano Nachi Taisha

About Kumano Kodo

Kumano Kodo is one of Japan’s many World Heritage sites. It was registered as a UNESCO World Cultural Heritage site in 2004 as part of the "Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range".

Kumano Kodo is a general term for the pilgrimage routes leading to Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha in the three mountains of Kumano, and is also called the Kumano pilgrimage route".

Kumano has long been worshipped as a sacred place where gods live because of its natural surroundings.  The belief is that one can experience a happy afterlife by visiting Kumano. 

Religious statues on the road

Such pilgrimages to religious sanctuaries is one of the main purposes of tourism in this area. Religious temples strongly reflect the climate, culture, temperament, and history rooted in the land. They are very special places that allow you to connect with the culture. 

Trekking in Kumano Kodo

Kumano is also the perfect place for trekking. There are multiple routes in Kumano Kodo. Each route is completely different, so you can try walking it again and again.

Pilgrimage route

While walking along the path that the trainees and worshippers have taken, you can think about the area’s history while enjoying the beautiful flowers and scenery, improving your fitness, and relieving stress.

Stairs to one of the temples