Temples / Shrines

The pilgrimage routes of the Kumano Kodo in Kansai have existed for more than 1,000 years. They were established as a way for people to visit sacred sites around the Kii Peninsula, but today they are a popular destination for hikers. The most important spots along the trails are three shrines called Kumano Sanzan. These are Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha, and Hayatama Taisha. The trails link the shrines to each other and to Kyoto, Koyasan, Omine, and Ise — all important religious sites. In the past, there were numerous routes, including several along the coast. Today, just two coastal and three mountain trails remain. Nakahechi: The Imperial Route One of the easiest trails to walk is Nakahechi. It begins in the city of Tanabe on the western coast and heads northeast to Hongu Taisha, which is best known for its towering torii gate. From here, the trail branches — one route goes to Nachi Taisha, the other to Hayatama Taisha. If you’d like to walk just a portion of the trail, a good option is to go to Takijiri Oji where there’s a beautiful shrine in the midst of a pine forest. It’s then a 30-kilometer walk to Hongu Taisha.…