Kumano Kodo · Mountain Route
The most demanding Kumano Kodo route, crossing four passes over 1,000 m. From Koya-san to Hongu through remote wilderness.
The longest day begins in the sacred cedar forest of Koya-san and descends steeply to the Niutsuhime Shrine and Miura-guchi. Book accommodation well in advance.
Cross Gomadanzan (1,372m) — the highest point of the entire Kumano Kodo. Remote mountain pass with panoramic views. The descent to Omata is long and steep.
The final day passes through the tiny hamlet of Totsukawa and crosses the Miura-toge pass before descending to the Kumano River and Hongu Taisha.
The Kohechi has almost no mobile coverage for the entire 3 days. A kumaphone provides offline GPS maps, emergency calling and navigation across all the high mountain passes.