Kumano Kodo Nakahechi: Mountain Trekking along the UNESCO World Heritage Pilgrimage Route

The Kumano Kodo is the collective name for mountain pilgrimage routes connecting the Kumano Sanzan (Hongu, Hayatama, Nachi) from Tanabe City, Wakayama as their starting point, inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004. Among multiple routes, the most traveled is the "Nakahechi" route.

Nakahechi's Main Sections and Highlights

The Nakahechi is approximately 70 kilometers from Tanabe City to Kumano Hongu Taisha, still walked by many pilgrims and travelers today. Particularly popular sections are "Takijiri-oji to Chikatsyu-oji" and "Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha." Stone-paved ancient roads, moss-covered shrines, mountain mist — fantastical scenery continues throughout.

Ushima-doji Statue and Viewpoints

Midway along Nakahechi at a hilltop in Chikatsuyu stands the "Ushima-doji" stone statue. Modeled after an Edo-period pilgrim, it is beloved as a symbol of travelers walking the Kumano Kodo. The surrounding mountain panorama is magnificent, with views of Kumano's mountains from here being spectacular.

Sister Route Partnership with Spain's Santiago de Compostela Pilgrimage

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi has established the world's only sister pilgrimage route relationship with Spain's Santiago de Compostela pilgrimage. "Dual pilgrims" who have walked both routes receive special certificates.

Access and Accommodation

Access starting points by bus from JR Kii-Tanabe Station. Minshuku guesthouses and farmhouse lodgings are dotted along the route, allowing authentic multi-day pilgrimage walking.