The Grand Shrines of Kumano: A Journey to the Heart of Japan’s Sacred Pilgrimage

Giuliana Alfinito
Oct 7
2 min read

When I first began designing trips in the Kumano region of Japan, I noticed something missing from most Kumano Kodo guided tours. They focused on the walking—but not on why pilgrims walked these sacred trails in the first place.

For over a thousand years, travelers have come to Kumano to visit the Kumano Sanzan, or Three Grand Shrines of Kumano—Kumano Nachi Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Hongu Taisha. Together, these three form the spiritual heart of Japan’s ancient pilgrimage network, each representing the purification of one’s past, present, and future self.

Visiting all three shrines is more than an itinerary—it’s a personal transformation. That belief inspired me to create the Grand Shrines of Kumano Tour, a small-group journey designed to reconnect travelers with Japan’s living spiritual heritage.

A Deeply Meaningful Kumano Kodo Tour

Our five-day Kumano Kodo small-group tour blends easy-to-moderate hiking (up to 10 km per day) with immersive cultural exchange. You’ll explore the UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage trails, soak in natural river hot springs, and visit the Grand Shrines of Hongu, Hayatama, and Nachi with local experts who share their stories and traditions.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy chef-prepared dinners at our favorite local restaurants, cozy locally owned inns, and the warmth of Japanese hospitality. Our sincere hope is to make your travel experiences personal, intimate, and transformative.

Cultural Experiences Beyond the Trail

At Kumano Adventures, our specialty is crafting more than hiking itineraries—we create experiences that build cross-cultural connection.

Between walks, you may join hands-on workshops such as:

Waraji sandal making (traditional pilgrim footwear)
Japanese calligraphy and tea ceremony lessons
Cooking classes with local artisans

These experiences are authentic collaborations with residents who are proud to share their craft and heritage while meeting people from all over the world.

Why Small Groups Matter

We limit this Kumano pilgrimage tour to just 6–8 guests. Keeping the group intimate allows us to access:

Boutique, family-run guesthouses
Private local dining experiences
Off-the-beaten-path cultural encounters

It also means more time to connect—with the guides, the locals, and each other.

Optional Koyasan Extension: A Sacred Finale

For travelers who wish to extend their pilgrimage, we offer a Koyasan temple stay—two additional nights at the mountaintop monastery town that is the center of Shingon Buddhism. Guests can join morning meditation, witness the monks’ fire rituals, and walk the lantern-lit Okunoin Cemetery—one of Japan’s most unforgettable experiences.

Embrace the Meaning of Pilgrimage

Creating the Grand Shrines of Kumano Tour was my way of honoring the spiritual essence of the Kumano Kodo—where walking, reflection, and cultural exchange come together in one journey.

For centuries, emperors and commoners alike walked these trails seeking renewal. Today, we invite you to walk them not just to see Japan, but to feel it—to purify your spirit, connect with its people, and carry the wisdom of Kumano home with you.

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