Guided Ise to Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Hiking Tour

Arrive in Ise and meet your guide at Ise-shi Station before beginning an introduction to one of Japan’s most sacred spiritual regions. After lunch at a local restaurant, explore the lively streets of Oharai Machi and Okage Yokocho, where traditional architecture, local shops, and centuries-old pilgrimage culture create a memorable first impression.

Continue to the revered Ise Naiku Shrine, dedicated to the sun goddess Amaterasu-Omikami and considered Japan’s highest-ranking Shinto shrine. In the afternoon, witness a traditional Kagura dancing ritual performed as an offering to the gods. The day concludes with dinner at a local restaurant before returning to the hotel in Ise for the evening.

Leave Ise behind and travel by chartered bus toward the first hiking section of the Kumano Kodo Iseji route. Depending on weather conditions, the day follows either the Tsuzurao-toge Pass or the gentler Nisaka-toge Pass. Both routes offer a rewarding introduction to the pilgrimage trails, with stone pathways, forested scenery, and sweeping coastal glimpses that once welcomed pilgrims journeying toward Kumano.

The preserved stone pavements and tranquil mountain atmosphere reflect the route’s deep historical significance. After time for an independent lunch stop, continue by bus to the evening’s accommodation in Kihoku. Dinner is served at the hotel, allowing time to relax after the first full hiking day.

Good Weather : Tsuzurao toge pass (Distance 10KM / Duration 4Hrs / 346m Up & 527m Down) Rain Weather : Nisaka toge pass (Distance 6.7KM / Duration 3Hrs / 173m Up & 359m Down）

Today’s journey explores one of the most admired sections of the Kumano Kodo Iseji. After transferring by chartered bus, begin hiking the historic Magose-toge Pass, renowned for its moss-covered cobblestone paths and atmospheric cedar forests. The carefully preserved stone paving protected pilgrims from the region’s heavy rainfall and remains one of the route’s defining features.

Those wishing for an additional challenge may continue to Tengura-san, a scenic viewpoint overlooking the surrounding mountains and coastline. The hike eventually descends toward the seaside town of Owase, where a visit to Owase Shrine offers insight into local Shinto traditions. The evening is spent at Hotel Viora with time to enjoy the relaxed coastal atmosphere independently.

Set out for one of the most demanding yet rewarding sections of the Iseji pilgrimage route. After a short transfer to the trailhead, hike the Yakiyama-toge Pass, a World Heritage section closely connected to centuries of mountain worship and Shugendo traditions.

The route passes through remote forest landscapes and ancient mountain paths before reaching Yakiyama Kojindo Shrine, a historic site reconstructed by local citizens in recent years. Steady ascents and descents make this one of the tour’s most physically challenging days, though the scenery from the higher sections provides an unforgettable reward.

A packed lunch is included during the hike before returning by chartered bus later in the afternoon for a restful evening.

After departing the hotel, travel toward Atashika to begin a scenic coastal hiking stage through historic villages and mountain passes. The route leads through Hadasu, a small settlement associated with legends of Jofuku and ancient searches for the elixir of life. Continue onward through bamboo groves and preserved stone paths while enjoying occasional coastal views along the pilgrimage trail.

The hike eventually reaches the dramatic Onigajo coastline, a striking lava-formed cliff area shaped by the Pacific Ocean over millions of years. Weather and timing permitting, there is an opportunity to walk along the cliff road before transferring to the evening’s accommodation. Dinner is included at a local restaurant after arrival in Mihama.

Travel by private vehicle to Shingu, an important spiritual center of the Kumano region. Begin with a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano, located where the Kumano River meets the Pacific Ocean.

Continue to Kamikura-Jinja Shrine, reached by climbing steep stone steps to a sacred rock said to mark the descent of the gods to earth. Following lunch, hike a coastal section of the Nakahechi pilgrimage route, passing Kamikura Shrine, Asuka Shrine, and Koyazaka while enjoying sea breezes and historic pathways once used by pilgrims.

In the evening, experience a distinctive cultural program at a Japanese snack bar hosted by former geisha in Shingu.

This morning begins with a transfer to Nachi Station before setting out on a scenic pilgrimage walk toward Nachi Falls. The trail passes Fudaraku-san Temple and the stone-paved Daimon-zaka slope, an atmospheric approach lined with towering cedar trees and centuries of spiritual history.

Arriving at Kumano Nachi Taisha, explore one of the region’s most significant shrines along with neighboring Seigantoji Temple, reflecting the historical blending of Buddhism and Shinto. Nearby stands Nachi Great Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall and an enduring object of worship within the Kumano faith tradition.

Later in the afternoon, transfer to the famous Hotel Urashima via shuttle boat and enjoy dinner overlooking the coastal surroundings.

The final day begins with a shuttle boat transfer back to the mainland before walking to Kii-Katsuura Station. There is time to visit Katsuura Gyoko Nigiwai-Ichiba, a lively market area known for exceptionally fresh tuna sourced from one of Japan’s busiest tuna fishing ports. Travelers may purchase lunch independently while enjoying views of the harbor and local seafood culture.

Depending on timing, there may also be opportunities to witness a tuna cutting demonstration unique to the area. In the late morning, board the Limited Express Kuroshio train for the scenic rail journey north toward Osaka. The tour concludes upon arrival at Osaka or Shin-Osaka Station later in the afternoon.