Forgot Something? Find Kumano Kodo Hiking Essentials at Stock Outdoor in Tanabe

You've been planning your dream trip for months and have finally arrived in Tanabe. It's far too late to let one missing piece of Kumano Kodo outdoor gear ruin your trip! 

That's why we're lucky to have Stock Outdoor, run by Koji Nitta, a short walk from Kiitanabe Station.

Nitta-san grew up spending lots of time in the outdoors, and like many people became a salary man later. But it didn't suit him, so he quit in order to open his own outdoor shop. 

For 6 or 7 years Stock Outdoor was in a location easily accessible by car but further from the station. It mainly sold camping gear popular during Japan's pandemic camping boom. 

More recently, he moved closer to the station, to a smaller location that focuses on hikers more than campers.

Nitta-san's most popular item among Kumano Kodo hikers are hiking poles, which can be a godsend on the steep and uneven stone paths but are difficult to transport on overseas flights. He also sells rain gear, from hardy plastic ponchos to high end jackets, Kumano Kodo guidebooks, and souvenirs like printed hand towels.

He says that hikers sometimes buy backpacks and tents too, and ask about camping or how far is possible to walk each day. He says he doesn't speak English, but manages to communicate with his customers. 

(Note: the Kumano Kodo is nearly ALL on private land protected by UNESCO World Heritage regulations, and camping off-site is strictly prohibited. Check here if you have any questions.)

As soon as Autumn 2024, Niita-san will open a guest house on the 2nd and 3rd floor of his shop. The second floor will have two rooms with two semi-double beds each, and the 3rd floor will house the shower. Lodging will be available to one group at a time, with a max of four people.

Stock Outdoor is close to Tokei Shrine and a number of restaurants, so drop in during a stroll around town!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Stock Outdoor in Tanabe?

Stock Outdoor is an outdoor gear shop near Kii-Tanabe Station that offers hiking gear, rainwear, guidebooks, and souvenirs for Kumano Kodo hikers.

What kind of gear does Stock Outdoor sell?

The most popular items include hiking poles, rain gear (from plastic ponchos to high-end jackets), backpacks, and guidebooks.

Why might hikers visit Stock Outdoor?

Hikers stop by to purchase or replace essential gear they couldn’t bring with them, such as hiking poles or rain protection, especially after arriving in Tanabe.

Does Stock Outdoor sell camping gear?

Yes, hikers sometimes buy backpacks and tents, but camping off the Kumano Kodo trails is prohibited, and camping gear may only be relevant for authorized or permitted locations.

Does the shop offer lodging?

As of autumn 2024, Stock Outdoor plans to open a guest house above the shop with limited lodging available for one group at a time.

Is English spoken at Stock Outdoor?

The owner manages customer communication despite limited English, helping international hikers find gear that fits their needs.