5-Day Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour

Today your tour begins with an express train from Kintetsu Kyoto station to Ise-shi station. Once in Ise, there are several options for you to enjoy on your first day here.

Visit Ise Naiku Shrine (Inner shrine of Ise Grand Shrine), Japan’s most sacred Shinto site, where the sun goddess Amaterasu Omikami has been enshrined for over 2,000 years. Be sure to visit the Sengukan and Geku shrines as well, as these will not disappoint!

Return to your hotel in Ise after an incredible day of soaking up Japan’s enchanting cultural history.

Lace up your hiking shoes and set out to hike the stunning Magose-toge Pass, one of the most iconic sections of the Iseji route, featuring 5.2 km of atmospheric forest trail with a moderate 325 m climb. Walk along centuries-old cobblestone paths, expertly laid with heavy natural stones to withstand Owase’s famously heavy rains. Lush moss carpets the ancient paving, creating a magical, almost otherworldly atmosphere that makes every step feel like a journey back in time.

Opt to continue with a hike up to Tengra-san mount which offers incredible panoramic views. Continue to your hotel in Owase for overnight.

Begin your day with a morning train journey from Owase to Odomari, where you’ll then head to the trailhead. Begin your walk along a remarkably well-preserved stone path, culminating at the Magose-toge Pass where a life-size guardian statue stands watch amid a quiet bamboo grove. From the top, take in views of the coastal route to Shingu—once a thrilling sight for pilgrims who knew their sacred destination was finally within reach. Following the trek with plenty of opportunities to stop and visit mystical shrines along the way, you’ll walk to Arii station for the train to Shingu. Check-in to your hotel here for a restful overnight.

You’ll set off for Nachu this morning which you’ll reach by train from Shingu. A local bus will then take you to Daimonzaka where your hike begins. Walk the stunning Daimonzaka path to Nachi-no-Taki Falls, lined with 800-year-old cedars and ancient cobblestones, where you might even glimpse pilgrims in elegant Heian-era costumes.

Further on, explore Nachi Taisha, one of the sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines, born from ancient worship of the majestic Nachi Falls. This spiritual site beautifully blends Shinto and Buddhist traditions, offering a powerful glimpse into Japan’s deep-rooted religious harmony.

Continue by public transport to your accommodations in Nachi Katsuura where you’ll enjoy a delicious dinner tonight (included).

Although your tour ends today, there is still time for one last adventure! Visit the lively Katsuura Gyoko Nigiwai-Ichiba market, Japan’s top port for fresh, never-frozen tuna caught using traditional haenawa methods. Enjoy delicious seafood dishes like tuna rice bowls and sandwiches while gazing out at the sea. If you're lucky, catch the rare spectacle of a live tuna dismantling show—an unforgettable local tradition unique to Kii-Katsuura.

Afterwards head by train to Osaka for onwards travels as your tour comes to and end.