Nakahechi Imperial Route - Koguchi to Nachi Taisha

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Features Birding · Fall Colors · Historical Significance

This trail is part of the Kumano Kodo, an ancient network of pilgrimage trails that link multiple Shinto and Buddhist shrines. Along these trails there are plenty of options for water and toilets. Hikers (and pilgrims) pack light and stay in accommodations (tb-kumano.jp/en/lodging/) at the various way stations.

Pay your respects when entering shrines ( matcha-jp.com/en/874#:~:tex…. )

Good flat trail with stone stairs for inclines. Parts of the trail are cobbled and can be slippery.

The first three miles starts with an intense 2,500-foot elevation change. Along the way you first pass Waroda-ishi. It a large moss-covered rock rock that was visited by deities to sit and drink sake. Close to the summit you pass the Kusu-no-Kubo Lodging Ruins.

Roll down the hill and over another hill until you arrive at the Jizo-jaya Teahouse Ruins.

From here you follow the road for next mile before you tuck back into the forest. Cruise along through some easy terrain until you connect back with the road.

A short while on the road, you head up the hill and into the forest again. You finally get some views of the Pacific Ocean when you arrive at the Funamichaya Overlook.

Head down hill and eventually you arrive at the Kumano-Nachi Taisha Shrine.