Japan’s Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage

A guidebook to walking Japan’s UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails, covering the Nakahechi, Choishimichi/Koyasan and Kohechi routes, as well as a Hongu loop and highlights of the Iseji route. Since many of the trails involve steep ascents and descents, a moderate level of fitness is required.

Routes vary from 5 to 64km (3-40 miles). Some can be enjoyed in a single day or half-day, whereas the Nakahechi and Kohechi routes lend themselves to a 4-day mini-trek.

• GPX files available to download
• 1:50,000 mapping plus larger-scale maps for key towns and the main shrines
• Detailed information on public transport, accommodation and refreshments
• Advice on planning and preparation
• Fascinating insights into Japanese culture and spirituality
  

Originally from Melbourne, after graduating from university, Katrina Davis moved to Japan. Working as an adventure tour guide in Japan helped Kat develop her skills to seek out the local hotspots and also develop a love for hiking. ’A wise man climbs Mt Fuji, a fool climbs it twice’ is a popular Japanese saying, so Kat climbed it 7 times. From Japan to Canada to London where Kat is now based, she quit her office job in 2013 to walk the Camino de Santiago and has never looked back. She has since completed seven Caminos and walked over 10,000km in Spain, Portugal, England, Italy, Japan and America, including the 4240km Pacific Crest Trail from Mexico to Canada.