Kumano Kodo

Worshipped as a place of rebirth, for centuries Japanese pilgrims have aspired to walk the Kumano Kodo ~ a 1,200 year old network of trails that pass cedar forests, cascading waterfalls and picturesque villages in the Kii Mountain range.

Anchored by three Shinto shrines dedicated to nature, the Kumano Kodo is one of only two ancient pilgrimage routes recognised as UNESCO World Heritage sites (the other is Spain’s Camino de Santiago).

For those seeking to experience Japan’s traditional way of life, the Kumano Kodo immerses you in this heritage - villagers tend orchards of heirloom ume plums, pound rice using wooden mallets to make mochi, and welcome the weary to soak tired muscles in their healing onsen hot springs.

Our journeyers sleep in small ryokan inns on tatami mats, where your lovingly created meals also showcase their delicious seasonal produce.

Walking this pilgrimage gives renewed meaning to the old adage that happiness is a journey, not just a destination.

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Suggested level of fitness to enjoy the benefits of this journey ~ to walk 10kms at least 3 times per week