Kumano Kodo Shishigase Pass: Echoes of the Ancients
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.
A Journey Through Time on the Moss-Covered Path
Step into a scene straight out of a Japanese woodblock print. The Shishigase Trail is one of the most atmospheric and historically preserved sections of the Kumano Kodo, yet it remains a quiet secret compared to the busy main routes.
This tour invites you to walk upon extensive stretches of ancient ishidatami (cobblestone pavements) that have survived for centuries. Surrounded by towering cedar forests and the silence of the mountains, you will feel the presence of the millions of pilgrims who walked this way before you.
Your reward for the climb is a rustic bento lunch enjoyed at the summit of the "Great Pass" (Otoge), followed by a descent into a quaint valley. The journey concludes with well-earned relaxation: a private transfer to a seaside hot spring, where you can soothe your tired legs while gazing out at the Pacific Ocean.