Kumano Kodo – Expression of Interest

You might not have heard of this walk in Japan, but its one of only two pilgrimage routes on the prestigious UNESCO World Heritage list, the other being the Camino de Santiago route in Spain. Whereas a record breaking half million people walked the Camino in 2023, this is a bit quieter!

There are 4 routes to the Kumano grand shrines at Hongu and then Nachisan, and the Nakahechi pilgrimage route is the one that was used by emperors and nobles from the 10th century onwards, hence its name ‘the Imperial Route’.

Accommodation is in Japanese ryokans (traditional inns) and minshukus (family run guesthouses), which are numerous enough to make it a popular route but limited enough to prevent overcrowding, so its necessary to book early. Guests sleep on futons that are spread on tatami mats and share toilet/bathroom facilities. Breakfasts and dinners are elaborate multi-course feasts of delicious authentic Japanese cuisine. They often have onsen (hot springs) for bathing your aching muscles, and many more are scattered throughout the mountainous areas and along the pilgrimage route.

This is not just a walk, its a cultural experience!

Spring and Autumn are the best times, and I am planning to do it in November 2025, which is the best time to see the amazing autumn colours of the Japanese maple trees. I intend to book a group self guided walk with RAWTravel (https://rawtravel.com/walks/kumano-kodo-autumn/) departing either 3rd or 15th November (cost $2790 in 2024, likely increase for 2025 dates when released). The start point is not far from Osaka and Jetstar has direct flights from Brisbane for <$400 each way. Kyoto is right next door to Osaka so I intend to spend a few days there either before or after the walk, and probably visit the Peace park at Hiroshima too.

It occurred to me that others in the club might be interested in this walk, and we might even form our own group, which provides more flexibility on departure date and itinerary. If you are interested give me a call on 0418 259 176 to discuss.

Please note the clubs insurance does not cover activities outside Australia and NZ so you will need travel insurance that covers trekking.