World Heritage Tour

Explore some of Japan's most sacred UNESCO World Heritage Sites

Adventure Level: Moderate 3/5

Available:

(2023) Oct 15 - Dec 15,

(2024) Feb 20 - June 20, Oct 15 - Dec 15

The World Heritage Tour is our most extensive tour of the Kumano Region with a well balanced itinerary of exploring natural and cultural adventures.

This 4-day adventure takes you through the oldest and most historically significant sections of the four Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes and designed with a mixed itinerary taking you hiking and travelling longer distances by private transport in order to cover Koyasan, all 3 Grand Shrines of Kumano as well as the hot spring towns Yunomine or Kawayu Onsen and the fishing town of Kii- Katsuura.

The World Heritage Tour is best suited for those who would like to spend time outdoors without compromising on the cultural visits/ experiences of historic sites, traditional accommodations or authentic cuisine.

Main stops of the Complete Kumano Tour

Koyasan is one of the most sacred areas of Japan and is the home of the Shingon sect of esoteric Buddhism. It is a town of monasteries far in the mountains founded by Kukai aka. Kobo Daishi, one of Japan’s holiest figures. The town has a history of over 1200 years and in 2004 UNESCO designated Koyasan as a World Heritage Site.
Religion is very complex in Japan. Koyasan is said to be the first place where Buddhism and Shintoism came together, to this day, it is an important destination for many and is visited from time to time by the imperial family.

A tour around the Koyasan lead by a Shingon monk, as well as a night in a Shingon monastery is included.

Hongu Grand Shrine, also known as Kumano Hongu Taisha, is the main shrine of the 3 grand shrines of the Kumano region. This is one of the most important shrines within the Shinto religion and is the head of over 3000 shrines across the country.

The Hongu Grand Shrine is revered for its connections to ancient pilgrimage routes and the Kumano Kodo used for centuries by pilgrims seeking spiritual purification.

The shrine's architecture reflects traditional Japanese design, with distinctive torii gates, wooden structures, and tranquil surroundings. Its cultural and historical significance, as well as its role in connecting people with nature and spirituality, continue to attract visitors and pilgrims from around the world.

Hayatama Grand Shrine, also known as Hayatama Taisha, is a prominent Shinto shrine located in the town of Shingu, Wakayama Prefecture. It is one of the three Kumano Sanzan shrines, along with Hongu Taisha and Nachi Taisha, that are considered sacred sites on the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Hayatama Grand Shrine is dedicated to the deity Susanoo-no-Mikoto, who is associated with the sea and storms in Shinto mythology. The shrine complex is nestled in a picturesque coastal setting, near the confluence of the Kumano and Otonashi rivers, surrounded by lush forests and natural beauty.

Visitors to the shrine can experience the unique spiritual atmosphere of Shinto tradition and explore its beautifully maintained grounds. The architecture and layout of the shrine reflect traditional Japanese design, and its importance as a pilgrimage destination has made it an integral part of Japan's cultural and religious heritage.

Nachi Grand Shrine The Nachi Grand Shrine, also known as Kumano Nachi Taisha, holds significant spiritual and cultural importance as one of the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano, which are collectively designated as UNESCO World Heritage Sites. The shrine is dedicated to the deity Kumano Nachi-no-Omi, associated with natural elements such as waterfalls and forests. It is also the location on Nachi Waterfall, the tallest waterfall in Japan (133m).

Yunomine Onsen is a historic and tranquil hot spring village located in the Wakayama Prefecture of Japan. Renowned as one of the country's oldest hot spring destinations, Yunomine Onsen is steeped in cultural and religious significance. The centerpiece of the village is the Tsuboyu bath, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can enjoy the therapeutic and mineral-rich waters and immerse themselves in the spiritual atmosphere that has attracted pilgrims and travelers for centuries. The onsen is also an integral part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage network, adding to its historical importance and charm.

*Depending on time of year/ availability or guest preferences, this tour make stop at Kawayu Onsen instead. Kawayu Onsen is located very close to Yunomine Onsen and is also a hot spring town with deep connections to the Kumano Kodo and its pilgrimages.

Kii Katsuura Fish Market Kii-Katsuura is a coastal town located in the Wakayama Prefecture known for its picturesque landscapes, stunning ocean views, and rich maritime culture. The town's proximity to the Pacific Ocean also makes it a hub for seafood, and visitors can enjoy fresh and delicious local seafood dishes. With its blend of cultural heritage and scenic charm, Kii-Katsuura offers a unique and memorable experience for travelers exploring Japan's diverse attractions.

If your stay here lands on a day when the local fish market is available for a tour, we can pay a visit!

This tour is a combination a hiking and cultural tour. The majority of our itinerary is outside. Although there will be walking involved every day, there will be ONE full day of hiking.

This tour picks out favorite sections off of a few Kumano Kodo trails and is NOT a thru- hike.

If you are interested in a long-trail multi day thru hike, the Koyasan - Hongu Pilgrimage Tour may be better suited for you.

-Please note that itineraries are subject to change based on weather/ trail status and other factors.

-The times of the itinerary below are a rough guideline.
-Please note that this is a very rural area of Japan and we may not have the option to enjoy many luxuries we have in everyday life.
-The only accommodation available although a great experience, will also be simple and traditional. Food options are limited. Although our lodging may have the means to improvise meals for us, please expect traditional Japanese cuisine. Though no guarantees can be made, please let us know of and dietary restrictions in advance and we will do our best to accommodate.

Highlights

3 nights, 4 days Tour
The most delicious and authentic culinary experience possible from monastery- approved vegetarian, to traditional and some of the freshest seafood in Japan
Visit over 10 UNESCO World Heritage sites sacred to Japanese Buddhism and Shinto
Stay at family-run Ryokan Inns in beautiful hot-spring towns (the Emperor himself stayed in one of our Ryokans)
Hiking through some of Japan’s most beautiful areas.
Ancient Pilgrimage Route
Night in a Monastery
Traditional Japanese cuisine
Beautiful hot springs inns
Japan’s forgotten wilderness
Will count towards your Dual Pilgrimage

Included:

Bilingual Guide, Logistics staff
3 Nights accommodation
All transport during the tour
Dinner & breakfast at each accommodation
Packed Lunches on day 1,2,3

Not Included:

Drinks, Alcohol
Souvenirs
Snacks
Insurance
Travel to/ from Osaka or Kyoto

Price

(Prices are prone to fluctuate depending on accommodation and season)
2 person minimum, max 5 people.

JPY 350,500+10% tax/ Person

*for groups smaller than 2 people, we will charge for 2 people.

Quick Links

What is the Kumano Kodo?

Accommodation

Koysan - Hongu Pilgrimage Tour

Itinerary

Day 1, Pick up and Koyasan

6:30AM: Pick up from your hotel in either Central Osaka or Kyoto and travel to Koyasan.

10:00AM: Arrive at Koyasan. Enjoy an extensive tour of Koyasan led by a monk of Ekoin (monastery where you will be staying). The monastery has been active for more than 1,000 years and although accommodation is simple, the monastery complex is well built and maintained by diligent monks. Here we’ll enjoy vegan Buddhist food.

Evening (optional): After exploring Koyasan you may join a meditation session held at the monastery before enjoying your first dinner, those with the energy are encouraged to join a guided tour of Okunoin cemetery by one of the monks at the monastery. Over 200,000 monks are buried here, their gravestones covered in moss surrounded by massive 600+ year old cedar trees. We’ll visit the Okunoin during the day, but the night-time tour offers unique views as pathways are lit by lanterns.

Day 2, Koyasan to Kumano

Early Morning (optional): On the morning of our 2nd day you can participate in the Goma Fire Ceremony led by monks of Ekoin monastery. Participants write their wishes and prayers on wooden sticks as the monk lights a fire, symbolizing the wisdom of Buddha. The monk then collects the goma and throws them into the fire as Buddha burns away the roots of suffering and desires.

9:00AM: Transport to Akagigoe Route (2-2.5 hrs drive).

11:30AM: Begin hiking the World Heritage Akagigoe route of the Kumano Kodo (3-4.5 hrs, 7.5km)

4-6:00PM: Arrive to Yunomine Onsen. Those with energy can continue along to trail to Hongu Grand Shrine and hike back to our accommodation at Yunomine Onsen OR can get driven there and driven back (additional 2 hours of hiking).
We will stay at Yunomine Onsen for the night. A 250+ year old Ryokan (hot spring inn) that has been around since the middle of the Meiji Era and serves a traditional Japanese feast (even members of the Imperial Family have stayed here)! In the town of Yunomine it is also possible to enjoy Tsuboyu hot spring, a World Heritage 1,800 year old hot spring at the center of town open to the public on a first-come, first serve basis.

Day 3, Nachi Grand Shrine

8:00AM: Transport to Ogumotori trailhead.

9:00AM: Hiking begins begins. A difficult but very scenic 14 km or 7 hours to Nachi Grand Shrine.

4:00PM: Arrival to Nachi Grand Shrine and explore the Shrine complex, pagoda and tallest waterfall in Japan.

6:00PM: Check in and have a traditional Japanese dinner at a Ryokan in Kii Katsuura a tuna capital.

Day 4 Kii Katsuura, Hayatama Grand Shrine and back to Kansai

8:30AM: Tour of Local Tuna Market (if open). Kii Katsuura is home of a local tuna market. Unlike many other markets this one off loads the fish directly from the vessels before going to other markets.

9:30AM: Transfer to Hayatama Shrine. Explore the 3rd Grand shrine of Kumano to complete your Pilgrimage!

12:00PM: Short 30 min hike up to Gotobiki no Iwa, the original location of the Hayatama Deities.

1:00PM Enjoy a local lunch in Shingu

2:00PM: Transport back to your accommodation in Kyoto or Osaka (3 hrs).

Accommodation

What to Bring

Recommended Equipment- World Heritage Tour

-There is a support vehicle included on this tour.

-Each guest may bring a backpack and suitcase.

-There will be opportunities to resupply for water/ snacks at small local shops or at each accommodation and there will be a packed lunch included on day 1,2 and 3.

-You will have the opportunity to shower everyday however, being able to wash your clothes is not guaranteed.

-Though this trip is a hybrid of hiking and sightseeing, the majority of the time will be spent outside.

Here is a list of recommended hiking equipment:

Backpack – A 20-30 liter backpack is recommended to carry your rain gear, water, snacks, and bento (lunch) boxes.

Backpack rain cover - Most backpacks are not waterproof, and it can rain a lot in the Kumano region. Using a backpack rain cover is one step we recommend you take to keep your valuables dry while hiking.

Large garbage bags / dry bags - When it rains, you want to be prepared. Placing all of your clothing inside of a dry bag will waterproof everything inside the bag. In the event of rain, you will be happy knowing that your warm clothing will still be dry by the time we arrive at our lodging. Garbage bags usually do the trick!

Hiking Poles – With lots of walking, poles can be very helpful to take some pressure off of our legs and additional support for balance especially on descent sections.

Hiking boots - Waterproof hiking boots with ankle support are highly recommended, as we'll be hiking in mountainous areas with uneven ground and often slippery rocks. Break in your boots before coming!

Good socks - Please bring extra pairs, either wool or synthetic socks, NEVER cotton. Use liner socks (a think silky sock that minimizes friction between your boot and your foot).

Rain gear - Please be sure to bring waterproof hiking pants/jacket (with attached hood if you don't have a rain hat). It's possible that it will rain all day, so please bring rain gear that you trust and are comfortable with! Rain gear also doubles as a wind resistant layer.

Hiking Wear - As temperatures can vary from above 30 degrees (C) to below 5 and rain is common, please make sure that you hike in quick-drying, durable materials such as polyester or athletic (i.e. running/soccer shirt) material. NEVER use cotton (including cotton jeans).

- Some tours may have the opportunity to wash clothes at the accommodation but it is not guaranteed.

- Our Guides usually bring

(3) T-Shirts: Please remember, polyester/athletic material. NO cotton
(2) Pants: Standard quick-dry trekking pants
(5) Socks, it's a good idea to switch them daily
(5) Underwear, also a good idea to switch them daily (again no cotton

Thermal layers - This will largely depend on the time of year. Especially in early spring and fall, temperatures can get cool enough (sometimes less than 5 degrees (C) during the day). It's a good idea to bring a warm insulated jacket which will stay warm even when wet (synthetic materials like Primaloft and Pertex, treated down jackets will also be great).

Closer to the winter bringing 1-2 base layers as well as a beanie or warm hat can be a great addition to your kit (again NO cotton).

Hat- Useful for both sun and rain

Sunglasses- To look cool!

Sunscreen - For your health, as the sun can be strong on parts of the hike.

Headlamp / Small flashlight - Especially in the fall and early spring, the sun may set before we arrive at the accommodations. Having a bright headlamp or flashlight is important so you can clearly see the rocky, often uneven and steep ground below your feet.

Water Bottles - There are opportunities along the way for us to refill on certain stretches, but you will want at least 1 liter water with you!

Trash bag (1) - Please use this as your personal trash bag. There are NO trash bins along the trail. You must keep all trash with you until you arrive at our lodging at the end of each day.

First aid kit - Though our guides all carry a large first aid kit, this is a multi-day tour and the Guides' first aid kits are reserved for true emergencies so it's a good idea to bring a first aid kit with band aids, blister tape and whatever medication you may need!

*By Japanese law guides are NOT allowed to carry an Epipen. If you are allergic to anything, make sure to bring your own!

Snacks – Dinner and breakfast will be included at each accommodation including a packed lunch daily. But, we advise you to bring a lot of snacks! You will have some opportunities to buy snacks at local shops as well as at the accommodation however, the options will be limited.

Lightweight comfortable shoes or sandlas - Will be great to have at the end of every stretch and on the travel to and from Osaka. Make sure they are light weight so they don't take up too much space or add much weight.

Personal Items:

ID - Foreign nationals are required to carry either a passport or National Residence Card at all times, you will also be required to show identification when checking into the accommodations.

Phone & Charger - You will have the opportunity to plug your phone in each night.

Pocket Money - though many places will accept card, Japan is still largely cash based. It's a good idea to carry some cash for snacks/ drinks, souvenirs etc.