Pilgrimage routes
Six ancient pilgrimage routes converge on the Kumano Grand Shrines. Choose your path — from the gentle Nakahechi to the demanding mountain crossing of the Kohechi.
The classic pilgrimage path from Tanabe to the three Grand Shrines. Passes through Takijiri-oji, Takahara, Chikatsuyu and Hongu.
The most demanding Kumano Kodo route, crossing four passes over 1,000 m. From Koya-san to Hongu.
A long coastal route hugging the Kii Peninsula shoreline from Tanabe to Nachi-Katsuura via Shirahama.
The eastern Kumano Kodo linking Ise Grand Shrine with Kumano. Remote mountain passes and dramatic Mie coast scenery.
The northern approach from Osaka and Wakayama city, connecting to the Nakahechi at Tanabe.
The ancient Shugendo mountain traverse linking Yoshino and Kumano along the spine of the Kii mountains. Only for experienced hikers.
