Product Description

Step into Japan’s sacred past with a one-day guided journey from Nagoya to the ancient Kumano region, home to UNESCO World Heritage Sites, lush mountains, and one of Japan’s most iconic waterfalls.

This cultural and nature-focused tour offers a rare opportunity to explore one of Japan’s most spiritual pilgrimage routes, the Kumano Kodo, which has been walked for over a thousand years by monks, emperors, and travelers seeking divine peace. The tour also includes a visit to the majestic Nachi Falls and glimpses of the rugged coastal beauty of the Kii Peninsula.

What to Expect on This Tour

Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail

• Enjoy a four-hour guided walking experience through one of Japan’s most sacred trails.
• This ancient pilgrimage route is one of only two in the world to be designated as a UNESCO World Heritage cultural landscape (the other being the Camino de Santiago in Spain).
• Follow cobblestone paths surrounded by moss-covered forests and hear stories of devotion and tradition from your guide.

Nachi Falls and Nachi Taisha Shrine

• Visit Nachi Falls, the tallest single-drop waterfall in Japan at 133 meters high.
• Admire the stunning view of the waterfall cascading behind the famous Seiganto-ji Temple and its vibrant three-tiered pagoda.
• Visit Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, set against a dramatic mountain backdrop.
• Learn about the fusion of Shintoism and Buddhism in this region, a unique religious blend known as Shinbutsu-shūgō.

Scenic Drive through the Kii Mountain Range

• Relax on a comfortable bus ride from Nagoya through the mountainous heart of the Kii Peninsula.
• View scenic landscapes, including the World Heritage–listed Lion Rock and the pristine Kumano coastline, from your vehicle.
• Enjoy commentary from the tour leader to enrich your understanding of the natural and cultural significance of the sites.

Itinerary Overview

• 07:00 – 08:00: Meet at Taikakudori Exit (in front of the West Police Office), Nagoya Station
• 08:00 – 11:30: Scenic drive to Kumano via mountain tunnels and valleys
• 11:30 – 15:30: Guided walk along the Kumano Kodo trail, visit Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls
• 15:30 – 16:30: Leisure time to explore or rest, optional visit to Seiganto-ji Pagoda
• 16:30 – 20:00: Return to Nagoya

Please note: the actual schedule may vary slightly due to traffic conditions, weather, and group pace.

Package Details

Tour Type: Full-Day Guided Tour (no overnight stay)
Price: ¥10,625 per person
Duration: Approx. 13 hours (including travel time)
Level of Difficulty: Moderate (trail includes stairs and uneven ground)
Language: Tour guide commentary in Japanese with English support available

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Departure Location:
Taikakudori Exit, in front of the West Police Office
Nagoya Station, Tsubakicho, Nakamura Ward, Nagoya, Aichi 453-0015, Japan

Inclusions

• Round-trip transportation by bus from Nagoya
• Guided Kumano Kodo walking experience
• Admission to Nachi Taisha Shrine and viewing platform near Nachi Falls
• Insurance for the duration of the tour
• Basic English support

Exclusions

• Meals and personal expenses
• Seiganto-ji Pagoda interior admission (optional, if open)
• Rain gear or hiking equipment

Important Information

• This tour operates rain or shine; however, in the event of extreme weather or natural disaster, the tour may be canceled and a full refund issued.
• Participants should wear comfortable walking shoes and weather-appropriate clothing.
• Due to the length of walking and stairs, this tour is not recommended for those with limited mobility.
• A minimum of one participant is required. If the tour is canceled due to insufficient participants, guests will be notified at least 5 days in advance.
• Please arrive at the meeting location at least 10 minutes before departure. The bus departs on time and cannot wait for latecomers.

Guest Reviews

“A deeply moving experience. The spiritual atmosphere of the Kumano Kodo and the power of Nachi Falls are unforgettable. The guide provided excellent information and made the trail walk very enjoyable.”

“The scenery was breathtaking. Though it rained heavily, the views of the waterfall and pagoda made the walk worth it. Good logistics and helpful staff.”

“The tour was well-organized. We had a smooth ride from Nagoya, plenty of photo stops, and learned a lot about Japan’s spiritual heritage. I would recommend this to nature and culture lovers alike.”