Walking the Kumano Kodo with a Guide: Nakahechi Route

2026年8月20日

nishitani

Walking the Kumano Kodo with a Guide (Nakahechi Route: Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha)
(Distance: approx. 6.9 km; Standard walking time: approx. 2 hours 30 minutes)

「"Walking changes your life."」

This route leads to Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, starting from Hosshinmon-oji—considered the gateway to the shrine's sacred precincts.
It is the most popular Kumano Kodo route, offering easy access and the opportunity to walk with a local guide.

The ancient trail winds through beautiful mountain hamlets; with gentle slopes, it is an accessible and enjoyable walk.
After visiting Kumano Hongu Taisha, be sure to descend the stone steps to visit the World Heritage Kumano Hongu Heritage Center and Oyunohara, the shrine's original site.

The Kumano Hongu area is also renowned for its hot springs, including Kawayu Onsen—where you can dig your own open-air bath in the riverbed—and Watarase Onsen, famous for its vast outdoor baths.

Videos of past tours here　こちら（Youtube)

入門の熊野古道歩き　日帰り

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route & Kumano Hongu Taisha: Introductory Course
■ Sample Itinerary:

7:30 AM – Meet/Depart from Kintetsu Yamato-Yagi Station (South Exit)
Departure point can be arranged upon request
......11:00 AM – Kumano Hongu Taisha-mae Bus Stop
Meet the local guide and pick up the special Kumano Kodo bento
......11:30 AM – Hosshinmon-oji
Walk the Kumano Kodo trail; enjoy the special Kumano Kodo bento
Hosshinmon-oji Oji Shrine ⇒ Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine (approx. 6.9 km)
......15:00　Visit to Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine
......16:00　Kawayu Onsen or Watarase Onsen

Scheduled disbanding at 20:00 at Kintetsu Yamatoyagi Station (South Exit)
Estimated duration: approx. 12 hours (subject to change based on traffic conditions)

■Dates: Available year-round (upon request)
■Meeting Point: Kintetsu Yamatoyagi Station, South Exit
■Meeting/Departure Time: 7:30
■Capacity: 8 participants (minimum 2 required)
■Price: ~~33,800~~ JPY/person (tax incl.) for 2 people ⇒ 29,800 JPY/person
. 27,800 JPY/person (tax incl.) for 3 people
. 25,800 JPY/person (tax incl.) for 4 people
. 23,800 JPY/person (tax incl.) for 5 or more people
Price includes:
. Tour planning, guide, and tour escort (interpretation) services
. 　　　　 Bento lunch and hot spring admission fee
.Transportation-related expenses
Travel insurance (Special Compensation Policy)
Costs not included:
Personal expenses

Duration: Approx. 12 hours | Minimum participants: 2 (Maximum: 8)
Estimated duration (subject to change based on traffic conditions)

This is a small-group day tour (2–8 participants) departing from Kintetsu Yamato-Yagi Station. Please feel free to contact us if you are interested!

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