Kumano Kodo · Northern Gateway
The northern approach to Kumano, linking Osaka and Wakayama city with Tanabe at the start of the Nakahechi. Gentler terrain and more accessible than the mountain routes.
Begin at Sumiyoshi Taisha in Osaka and walk south through Sakai and Kishiwada to Wakayama city, passing through the coastal flatlands and entering Wakayama Prefecture.
Follow the ancient pilgrimage roads south through Wakayama city and along the Kinokawa river valley to the town of Gobo.
The final section passes through Cape Hinomisaki and the fishing port of Mihama before arriving at Tanabe, where the Kiji joins the Nakahechi.
The Kiji passes through populated areas with generally good mobile coverage, but remote sections between Gobo and Tanabe can be patchy. A kumaphone provides reliable GPS and data throughout.