Japan's Kumano Kodo

Start Kyoto

Hike to the Kibune shrine; onto Kurama temple and hot springs (optional). Return to Kyoto

Walk on the historic Yamano be no michi; one of Japan’s oldest still existing path roads

Morning walk to the Fushimi Inari Shrine; free time in Kyoto before train to Tanabe

Start walking the Kumano Kodo; a series of ancient pilgrimage routes. Bus transfer to Takajiri-oji; Hike to Nonaka passing Takahara village

Walk in the forest, crossing rivers and ancient shrines; transfer by local bus to Yunomine Onsen

Follow the old spiritual path from Ukegawa to Koguchi; transfer to Kawayu Onsen; enjoy views of the surrounding Kumano mountain range

Walk past historic sites and wonderful views to Nachi Falls and Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the Kumano Kodo’s main pilgrimage destinations

Travel by train to Toba, located in the rural Mie prefecture

Learn about the famous Ama divers on Mikimoto Pearl Island and Osatsu village; visit Ise Shrine

Scenic train journey to charming Kiso Fukushima

Walk a section of the ancient Nakasendo Way from Tsumago to Magome

Train to Tokyo; free time to explore

End Tokyo