Included: Experienced Japanese and English-speaking hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day Kumano Kodo tour Accommodation: 7 nights in authentic hotels and lodges All meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners (dinners with sake, beer, or soft drinks) Pack-free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry (luggage is transported to your accommodation each day) Private vehicle transfers (no trains) Experiences: Kumano River Pilgrim Boat Cruise Meditation with a monk in Koyasan Add-ons Single supplement — $565 Not included: International or domestic flights Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges Special dietary requirements Visa and passport fees Personal expenses Guide gratuities — optional Travel and medical insurance — mandatory

How fit do I need to be?

This Kumano Kodo tour is rated easy to challenging , depending on the day. You’ll walk from 5-14 km (3.1-8.7 mi) , with up to 1,260 m (4,134 ft) elevation gain . Most days have flexible walking options with shorter and longer alternatives, but a good fitness level is necessary. It’s recommended to start going for long and uphill walks prior to the trip in order to build up your fitness level. You can find more detailed information about the hiking distances and elevation gains in the itinerary. Looking to explore the Kumano Kodo on wheels? Check out this biking & hiking adventure !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Small day pack for items you might need throughout the day Hiking poles — optional Passport, visa, and indemnity form Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. Your luggage will be transferred from one point to another, so you don’t need to worry about hauling your luggage with you. You’ll receive a detailed packing list before your departure.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Kumano Kodo tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1. Two guides will accompany you on this trip. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants. Solo travelers can join this adventure and either pay the single supplement at checkout or share a room. If you choose to share a room, your guides will try to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender. If no match is found by around 8 weeks before departure, you will be required to pay the single supplement. A Kumano Kodo tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Kumano Kodo tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Kumano Kodo tour is Osaka. To get there, most people fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX) . From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Osaka. Alternatively, you can fly into Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo and take the Shinkansen (bullet train to Osaka) the day prior to the tour. Once you’re there, you will meet your guides on Day 1 at 6pm at your accommodation in Osaka.

Safety measures and insurance

Medical and travel protection is mandatory for this adventure. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible , simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner! Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered. Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!

Secure your 2026 adventure with just a 10% deposit.

KUMANO KODO | JAPAN

Kumano Kodo Tour: Pilgrimage Hike in Japan

Nachi falls on the Kumano Kodo tour in Japan

View of the Hyakkengura mountain overlook on the Kumano Kodo tour

A wooden sign on the Kumano Kodo tour surrounded by greenery

From $4,260 ()

Duration

8 days

Season

April through October

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Intro
Itinerary
Brochure
Accommodation
Things to know

Some trails give you bragging rights. The Kumano Kodo, a series of ancient pilgrimage routes, gives you plenty of those—plus stories that sound made up (but are not). Where else can you hike through misty mountains, climb to centuries-old shrines, meditate with real monks, and soak in natural hot springs—all in the space of eight days? This adventure takes us through one of Japan’s most important cultural treasures, where we’ll (quite literally) walk through a thousand years of history, nature, and spirituality. And because the only thing better than hiking sacred trails is doing it in style, we’ll mix traditions with modern comforts. Think plush hotels and welcoming temples, delicious Japanese food, and our bags waiting at each stop while we’re out there living our best pilgrim lives.

Adventure highlights

Sacred steps

Hike UNESCO-protected pilgrimage trails through misty forests and past historic shrines
Eat, pray, soak

Meditate with monks, savor traditional Japanese cuisine, and relax in steamy onsens (hot spring baths)
Rest like an emperor

Sleep like royalty in stylish hotels, temple lodges, and serene resorts

Itinerary

Download itinerary

Walk one of the world's greatest pilgrimage trails without the heavy lifting! This eight-day journey on the Kumano Kodo blends rewarding hikes with cultural experiences and modern comforts. We'll follow ancient pilgrim paths through misty mountains and cedar forests, discovering grand shrines and soaking in hidden onsens (hot springs) along the way. Each day brings something magical: morning meditation with Buddhist monks, walks to UNESCO World Heritage sites, and nights in carefully chosen spots from sleek hotels to traditional temples. With experienced guides, all meals included, and daily luggage transfers handling the heavy work, we're free to focus on what matters: soaking up every moment (and in every onsen) on this legendary trail.

You’ll need to arrange your flight to Osaka. You can fly directly to Osaka or arrive in Tokyo and take the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Osaka the day before the adventure.
Make your way to your accommodation for tonight at the Aloft Hotel Dojima, Osaka, part of the Marriott Group. You can explore Osaka for the rest of your day at your leisure. The hotel is centrally located near local trains. At 6pm, you’ll meet the guides in the hotel foyer for a welcome meeting, followed by a 2.5-hour Yatai night tour, where we’ll indulge in Fukuoka’s local cuisine by visiting different night stalls.

Accommodation: Aloft Hotel Dojima, Osaka
After breakfast at the hotel, we transfer by vehicle to the temple town of Koyasan for a short sightseeing tour. Koyasan is a mountain town known for its ancient temples and deep spiritual significance.
Today’s walk retraces the steps of generations of pilgrims, winding through towering cedar forests and ascending rugged mountains. The trail concludes at the Daimon Gate, a grand two-story crimson gate marking the entrance to Koyasan. This afternoon, we’ll have the opportunity to join a guided meditation session with a resident monk in a serene temple setting. Afterwards, we’ll enjoy an authentic Japanese-style dinner at our temple lodging.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 11 km (6.8 miles), 3 hours
Elevation: +350 m (+1,150 ft)
Accommodation: Rengejoin Lodge or Soijin Temple Lodge, Koyasan
Before breakfast, we’ll have another opportunity to join a morning meditation session. After a traditional Japanese vegetarian breakfast, we transfer by private vehicle to Takijiri-Oji, one of the five major Oji shrines on the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage route. The initial ascent to Takahara Village is steep, passing through forests and past unique rock formations, including the Tainai-kuguri cave. Takahara offers stunning views of the Hatenashi mountain range. After a sit-down lunch, we can relax at our hotel or choose from two optional walks:

Option 1: An out-and-back moderate walk to Jujo-Oji.
Option 2: A longer, challenging hike to Michi-no-Eki, which includes a steep descent.

After the walk, we transfer back to our accommodation for dinner.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 3.9-12.6 km (2.4-7.8 miles), 3-7.5 hours (depending on the chosen route)
Elevation: up to +357 m (+1,170 ft), up to -400 m (-1,310 ft)
Accommodation: Takahara Organic Hotel
After breakfast, we transfer to Michi-no-Eki and begin our walk with an ascent to the Hashiori-Toge pass. At the top, we find a statue of Emperor Kazan astride a noble horse and a sturdy cow, symbolizing his spiritual journey.
Descending along a cobblestone staircase, we reach Chikatsuyu Village with views of the Hiki-gawa River and Chikatsuyu-Oji shrine. From here, the trail climbs to Tsugizakura-Oji, known for its giant cedar trees and a natural spring. Afterwards, we transfer to Watarase Onsen, where we stay for three nights at Hotel Sasayuri. The hotel offers traditional and Western-style rooms and private hot onsen (thermal baths). Tonight, we dress in Yukata (traditional japanese kimono dress) and enjoy a dinner featuring local cuisine, accompanied by sake or beer.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 5 km (3.1 miles), flexible walking options available
Elevation: +150 m (+490 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri, Watarase Onsen
After breakfast, we transfer to Hosshinmon-Oji and begin our walk towards Kumano Hongu Taisha, passing through forests and remote villages with breathtaking views.
At Fushiogami, we get our first glimpse of the towering 33.9-meter (111-foot) torii gate of Hongu Taisha. As we descend, we arrive at the shrine complex, a beautiful blend of simplicity and elegance. We then continue to Yunomine Onsen before returning to our accommodation at Watarase Onsen. Tonight, we’ll enjoy another traditional meal served with sake or beer.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 miles)
Elevation: +100 m (+330 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri, Watarase Onsen
After breakfast, we begin our walk from Ukegawa with an ascent towards Hyakken-gura, passing the Matsuhata-jaya Teahouse remains. At the top of Hyakken-gura, we enjoy panoramic views before continuing along a winding forest trail. The walk gradually descends into the remote village of Koguchi, nestled among mountains and rivers. Afterward, we transfer back to our accommodation for the night.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8.1 miles)
Elevation: +420 m (+1,380 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri, Watarase Onsen
Today’s challenging walk takes us from Koguchi to the grand Nachi Taisha Shrine. The first section is a steep ascent, gaining 800 m (2,624 ft) in just 5 km (3.1 mi).
The trail winds through forests and past ancient stone walls before reaching a breathtaking summit with ocean views. Descending, we arrive at the sacred Nachi Taisha, Seiganto-ji Temple, and the 133-meter (436-foot) Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall, Japan’s tallest. After our walk, we transfer to the coastal village of Kii-Katsuura, where we stay at a resort overlooking the bay. Dinner tonight is a spectacular buffet featuring a variety of fresh seafood and local specialties.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, and dinner
Hiking: 14.5 km (9 miles), 8 hours
Elevation: +1,260 m (+4,130 ft), -930 m (-3,050 ft)
Accommodation: Yukai Resort Koshinoyu, Kii-Katsuura
On our final day, we travel to the Kumano River for a traditional boat cruise, just as pilgrims did over a century ago. Enjoy stunning views of the river and waterfalls as we glide through the picturesque gorge.
Our boat arrives in Shingu, where we visit the Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site that has stood on the Kumano Riverbank since at least the 12th century. Afterward, we transfer by private vehicle back to Osaka, arriving at approximately 5:30pm. This marks the end of our incredible journey.

Meals: Breakfast and lunch

Kumano Kodo Tour: Pilgrimage Hike in Japan

Adventure Brochure

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If you have questions or need help with planning a trip, schedule a call with one of our adventure experts.

Meet your guide

5.00

Life’s an Adventure

Life’s an Adventure was founded in 2008 by Mark Norek with a simple but transformative idea—hiking should be about more than just walking. Inspired by his own experiences, Mark introduced the Pack-Free Walking Experience, combining stunning trails with comfort, luxury, and unforgettable moments. As the company grew, so did its vision, expanding to include immersive cultural experiences, fine dining, and exclusive access to remote landscapes. Today, Life’s an Adventure ensures every journey is about more than just the trail—it’s about truly experiencing the destination.

Accommodation

Authentic hotels, lodges, and temples

Going on a pilgrimage hike doesn’t mean we have to sleep in sleeping bags! We’ll rest our legs in hand-picked accommodations, some with four or more stars. We’ll spend one night in a stylish room in Aloft Hotel Dojima in Osaka. In Koyasan, we’ll stay at either Rengejoin Lodge or the Soijin Temple Lodge and immerse ourselves in temple life with tatami rooms. Then, we’ll continue to Takahara Organic Lodge for a warm, eco-friendly retreat. Our longest stay will be three nights at Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri, where we’ll unwind in soothing hot springs. Finally, the Yukai Resort Koshinoyu Kii Katsuura will welcome us with ocean-view onsen baths and a delicious buffet.

Expect traditional Japanese hospitality, culture, and exceptional cuisine at every turn. In the event an accommodation is not available, a comparable option will be found.

Things to know

Included:
- - Experienced Japanese and English-speaking hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day Kumano Kodo tour
  - Accommodation: 7 nights in authentic hotels and lodges
  - All meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 6 dinners (dinners with sake, beer, or soft drinks)
  - Pack-free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry (luggage is transported to your
  - accommodation each day)
  - Private vehicle transfers (no trains)
  - Experiences:
  - Kumano River Pilgrim Boat Cruise
  - Meditation with a monk in Koyasan
Add-ons
- - Single supplement — $565
Not included:
- - International or domestic flights
  - Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges
  - Special dietary requirements
  - Visa and passport fees
  - Personal expenses
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Travel and medical insurance — mandatory
This Kumano Kodo tour is rated easy to challenging, depending on the day. You’ll walk from 5-14 km (3.1-8.7 mi), with up to 1,260 m (4,134 ft) elevation gain. Most days have flexible walking options with shorter and longer alternatives, but a good fitness level is necessary. It’s recommended to start going for long and uphill walks prior to the trip in order to build up your fitness level.

You can find more detailed information about the hiking distances and elevation gains in the itinerary.

Looking to explore the Kumano Kodo on wheels? Check out this biking & hiking adventure!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Small day pack for items you might need throughout the day
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Passport, visa, and indemnity form
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans. Your luggage will be transferred from one point to another, so you don’t need to worry about hauling your luggage with you.

You’ll receive a detailed packing list before your departure.
Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Kumano Kodo tour, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 6:1. Two guides will accompany you on this trip.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
  - Solo travelers can join this adventure and either pay the single supplement at checkout or share a room. If you choose to share a room, your guides will try to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender. If no match is found by around 8 weeks before departure, you will be required to pay the single supplement.
A Kumano Kodo tour can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Kumano Kodo tour on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Kumano Kodo tour is Osaka. To get there, most people fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX). From there, you can take a shuttle service, public transport, or rent a car to reach Osaka. Alternatively, you can fly into Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo and take the Shinkansen (bullet train to Osaka) the day prior to the tour.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guides on Day 1 at 6pm at your accommodation in Osaka.
Medical and travel protection is mandatory for this adventure. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!

Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.

Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!
Special 2026 deposit offer

Secure your spot for 2026 with just a 10% deposit. The remaining 20% of the deposit is due by the end of 2025. Learn about our cancellation policy below.

Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.