The Coastal Pilgrimage: Hidden Paths & Sacred Shores

The Road Less Traveled: From Ancient Stones to the Open Sea

While many have walked the mountain paths of the Kumano Kodo, few know the secret history of the "Sea Route." Before modern roads connected the Kii Peninsula, pilgrims often approached the sacred lands by boat, landing on the coast and hiking inland.

This immersive half-day tour retraces that forgotten journey. You will step away from the crowds to explore hand-carved mountain passes, visit shrines that guarded the coast, and experience the unique transition from deep forest silence to the liberating expanse of the Pacific Ocean.

The journey honors the past but celebrates the present: after your hike, swap traditional temple cuisine for a gourmet local burger at a hidden gem café, followed by a restorative soak in a hot spring overlooking the very sea you just hiked along.

Length

4.5 hours

group size

Min 2, max 4

activity level

Moderate

Itinerary

1. Meeting & Briefing (10:00) Meet your local guide at JR Kii-Uchihara Station. After a short briefing, we will take a private hire car to the starting point of our hike, Tanjoin Temple.

2. The Birth Temple & The Hike (10:15 – 12:15) We begin at Tanjoin, the birth temple of the revered monk Tokuhon Shonin. From here, we step onto the trail.

Dososhin: We pass traditional guardian deities of the road.
Kiridoshi: We navigate the "Cut Road," a rugged and atmospheric section of the trail.
Wakai Oji: We arrive at the Hii Wakai Oji shrine, connecting the spiritual path to the sea.
The Coast: The trail opens up to the coastline, offering beautiful views of the ocean.

3. Gourmet Burger Lunch (12:15 – 12:55) We arrive at Tashinami, a charming local café. Here, you will enjoy their signature "Moon Shot Burger" set—a delicious, modern twist on local dining using high-quality ingredients.

4. Seaside Onsen Soak (13:05 – 14:05) A short private transfer takes us to Michishio no Yu. Enjoy 60 minutes of relaxation in these thermal waters. The facility is perched by the coast, allowing you to watch the waves while you bathe.

5. Tour Conclusion (14:20) A private car will return you to JR Kii-Uchihara Station, where the tour concludes. Please arrange your onward travel from there.

What to prepare

Footwear: Comfortable walking shoes or trekking shoes are highly recommended as there are steep and unpaved sections.

Clothing: Dress in layers suitable for the weather. Bring rain gear (foldable umbrella or light raincoat).

Onsen Supplies: Please bring a small face towel and a bath towel for the hot spring (rentals available for a fee, but not included in tour price).

Hydration: Water or sports drink.