How do you get to the Kumano Kodo?

The usual approach to the Nakahechi route is via Kii-Tanabe Station, reached on the Kuroshio limited express from Osaka in about 2.5 hours or from Kansai International Airport in about 2 hours. From Kyoto, allow 3 hours. 

From Kii-Tanabe, buses run to the trailheads. An early morning express bus is the best option for those planning to hike to Takahara or Chikatsuyu.

For the coastal trails and shrines, Kii-Katsuura station serves Nachi Grand Shrine and Shingu station serves Hayatama Grand Shrine.

Public transport works, but relying on it exclusively fragments the day — connections are infrequent enough that a missed bus can cost hours. Private transfer removes that constraint and opens up significant flexibility.