43Miles
4–5Days
11,000 ftGain
ThruType
Permits
System
None — book minshuku and ryokan through the Kumano Travel reservation centerBook lodging several months ahead for March–May and October–November. Luggage transfer between inns is available. Collect stamps at each shrine for the dual pilgrimage certificate with the Camino de Santiago.Apply or read more
Cost
Free; lodging about ¥10,000–20,000 per night with meals
Bear storage
Not applicable
Season
Best
March – May and October – November.
JFMAMJJASOND
PeakShoulderClosed
On trail
Water
Vending machines and village taps along the route.
Resupply
Villages and guesthouses; limited shops between them.
Notes
A 1,000-year-old pilgrimage route through cedar forest to the three grand shrines of Kumano. Steep stone steps and frequent rain.
Elevation
100 ftHigh 1,200 ft
Resupply towns
Takijiri-oji (start)
Chikatsuyu
Hongu
Nachi