Japan's Kumano Kodo, a network of ancient pilgrimage trails on the mountainous Kii Peninsula south of Osaka, running along the Nakahechi, Kohechi and Iseji trails, as well as Koyasan and the Choishimichi route. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The Kumano Kodo offers a different view of Japan: far from the modern cities, it is a world of forested hillsides, hidden valleys, waterfalls, traditional villages, moss-covered stone deities and tranquil oji shrines. There are opportunities to experience hot spring bathing and sample local cuisine as you follow in the footsteps of emperors, samurai, priests and ascetics traversing traditional flagstone paths and forest trails.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The pilgrimage routes focus on three Shinto-Buddhist shrines known as Kumano Sanzan, the ancient trails combine hiking and outstanding natural beauty with a unique insight into Japan's rich history, culture and spirituality. The guide covers the Nakahechi and the Kohechi in their entirety, as well as the Choishimichi to Koyasan route, the Iseji route and the highlights of the Iseji route. <\/p>\n\n\n\n
The path is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The Kumano Kodo and the The Way of St. James<\/a><\/strong> are twinned. <\/p>\n\n\n\n