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Planning a Kumano Kodo hike can be a headache..
(it was for me at least!)
A simple search can send you spiraling down the rabbit hole as you sift through websites (half of which are in Japanese) trying to find the right combination of accommodation, transport, and routes to make (firstly) it all work – and then (secondly) try to align this to your budget, travel style, and date preferences.
It took me weeks of research, bookings, and a month of waiting for Kumano Travel to confirm before I knew I could even do this trip!!
That’s why in this article I wanted to share an easier way, that is, of booking a Kumano Kodo tour package (as well as some tips if you do want to DIY it)
Best Guided Tours:
1️⃣ Walk Japan (My Recommendation) [Jump To Review]
2️⃣ Oku Japan (Runner Up) [Jump To Review]
3️⃣ Home Comforts Hiking [Jump To Review]
Best Self-Guided Tours
4️⃣ Walk Japan: Kumano Kodo Wayfarer [Jump To Review]
5️⃣ Samurai Tours [Jump To Review]
6️⃣ Unique Japan Tours [Jump To Review]
Table of Contents
Guided vs Self Guided vs DIY Self-Guided
The first thing you need to do is figure out if you want to experience the Kumano Kodo as a guided or self-guided tour. The former will cost a bit more, but you’ll learn a great deal about the history and significance of the trail.
- Guided: All your bookings are handled, you just turn up and meet your native-language-speaking guide. You can book as a group or privately depending on your preference.
- Self-Guided: The agency will handle all your accommodation bookings and itinerary. You’ll also get luggage transfers and a driver to drop off/ pick up as required.
- DIY Self-Guided: You’re doing it all yourself; planning and booking routes, accommodation and any logistics along the way.
I opted for DIY self-guided as I love the freedom to take days at my own speed (often fast) and was probably more interested in the food and swimming holes along the way than 4 days of history lessons. It was A LOT of planning, and a huuuge amount of anxiety waiting for almost 6 weeks for Kumano Travel to lock in our reservations. If you value your time, booking a package is a lot easier!
Guidance and support
A guided tour provides you with professionals who will lead you along the trail. They’ll share their knowledge and insights, and assist with any issues or emergencies.
On the other hand, tackling the route on your own gives you more freedom and flexibility. You’ll have access to detailed maps and instructions. The only drawback is you’ll have to do more research and preparation and be responsible for your own safety and navigation. You’ll also not be able to mingle with a group (if you’re into that) and won’t get as much local lore and history along the way.
Accommodation and Meals
Both tour types arrange your accommodation and meals for you. You’ll be staying in traditional Japanese inns, temples, or guesthouses along the trail. They have a cozy and authentic feel and are paired with delicious home-cooked meals. Most of them also feature onsens (hot spring baths) where you can relax and soothe your muscles after a long day of walking.
Some tour operators work closely with guesthouses, and they often ensure their guests get the most comfortable stay, but bascially the accomodation and meals will be the same with whatever option you chose.
Luggage and Transportation
Because you’ll be staying at different places for the duration of your hike, tour operators will take care of your luggage and transportation for you, either by daily luggage shuttle or by private vehicle. This means you only have to carry a day pack with your essentials and enjoy the scenery and the walk without worrying about your belongings.
Going the DIY route means you have to carry your own luggage or arrange your own luggage shuttle or transportation, which can be costly and complicated.
Cost and Value
Choosing to hike with a guide is a hassle-free and immersive experience. You’ll have access to expert guidance and support, and exclusive activities. But it also means more expenses because you’ll pay for the guide’s fee, accommodation, meals, luggage, transportation, and other add-ons.
Traveling on your own is budget-friendly. You’ll still pay for the basics, but you have more time to enjoy the scenery. If you relish a bit of independence in your travels, this might appeal to you. Bear in mind that you’ll handle all the logistics. This entails investing more time and effort in doing thorough research and dealing with more challenges and uncertainties.
| Feature | Guided Tour | Self-Guided Tour | DIY Delf Guided |
|---|---|---|---|
| Guidance and Support | Professional guide leads the way, shares knowledge, assists with issues | Detailed maps & instructions, local phone/email support, self-reliant planning & navigation | Internet research and the Kumano Kodo guide book |
| Accommodation and Meals | Pre-arranged ryokan/minshuku with delicious meals, onsens | Pre-arranged ryokan/minshuku with delicious meals, onsens | More flexibility, finding & booking accommodation/meals yourself but harder to secure a spot and more admin! |
| Luggage and Transportation | Daily luggage shuttle or private vehicle, carry day pack only | Daily luggage shuttle or private vehicle, carry day pack only | Manage your own luggage (if going completely DIY), potentially higher costs |
| Cost and Value | Hassle-free & immersive experience, expert guidance, exclusive activities, higher expenses | Hassle-free way to book and organise your trip but more expensive than DIY option | Hassle-free & immersive experience, expert guidance, exclusive activities, higher expenses |
The 3 Best Guided Kumano Kodo Tour Packages
The tours below are what I believe are the best-guided packages for the Kumano Kodo. While I didn’t take any of these tours myself we met people along the way who were on a Walk Japan tour and couldn’t speak highly enough of it!
1️⃣ Walk Japan (My Recommendation)
Walk Japan is one of the most reputable and experienced tour operators. They have been operating since 1992 and have a team of knowledgeable and friendly guides. Their guided tour–the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage–to be an excellent package and is good value for money given the iternary and number of nights.
Price: Around $3,395 per person but check their website for the latest deals and updates.
Highlights and Features
2️⃣ Oku Japan (Runner Up)
Oku Japan is well-known for its off-the-beaten-track adventures. They have been offering guided tours since 2003 and boast a knowledgeable team of local and international guides. They offer 2 packages: the Kumano Ancient Trail and the Japan Hiking Highlights: The Kumano Kodo and the Nakasendo Trail.
Kumano Ancient Trail
The Kumano Kodo and the Nakasendo Trail
3️⃣ Home Comforts Hiking
Home Comforts offers a 6-day and 5-night walk along the ancient pilgrimage routes of the Kumano Kodo. They offer a truly memorable cultural experience through Kumano’s spiritual countryside.
Highlights and Features
The Best Self-Guided Tour Packages
As mentioned before, self-guided tours are a great option if you want to take the hassle out of booking (and figuring out an itinerary), but don’t want to be accompanied by a guide.
I’d definitely consider this if doing the walk again as doing the bookings yourself was haaard work and very confusing.
4️⃣ Walk Japan: Kumano Kodo Wayfarer
Walk Japan also offers self-guided tours called the Kumano Kodo Wayfarer.
Highlights and Features
5️⃣ Samurai Tours
This US-based agency has been providing self-guided tours since 2000. Their comprehensive tour package includes accommodation, meals, luggage, transportation, local support, and a detailed tour handbook. You walk at your own pace and schedule, but you can also join optional group activities and experiences.
Highlights and Features
6️⃣Unique Japan Tours
Unique Japan offers a variety of self-guided, fully tailored, and small group tour adventures in Japan. They have been operating since 2004, and have a knowledgeable team of travel specialists.
Features: Unique Japan Tours
Best Kumano Kodo Tour Company: Summary
| Company | Routes Available | Group type and size | Tour type | Accommodation | Highlights | Duration (days) | Price Range (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walk Japan | Nakahechi, Kohechi, Iseji, Koyasan, Hayatama Taisha | Private (6-12) & Shared (4-12) | Guided and Self-guided | Minshuku, hotels, temples | Experienced guides, cultural experiences | 3-7 | 2,295 – 8,295 |
| Oku Japan | Nakahechi, Kiiji, Kohechi, Ohechi, Iseji | Private (1-8) | Guided and Self-guided | Minshuku, traditional inns | Flexible pace, local expertise | 3-7 | 1,495 – 3,695 |
| Home Comforts Hiking | Nakahechi, Kohechi, Iseji | Shared (4-8) & Private (1-6) | Guided | Traditional inns, minshuku | Personalized service, focus on comfort | 5-8 | 3,200 – 4,800 |
| Samurai Tours | Nakahechi, Kohechi, Iseji, Koyasan | Shared (2-12) & Private (1-8) | Guided and Self-guided | Traditional inns, minshuku | Historical focus, immersive experiences | 4-7 | 3,495 – 7,995 |
| Unique Japan Tours | Nakahechi, Kohechi, Iseji, Koyasan | Shared (2-10) & Private (1-8) | Self Guided | Traditional inns, minshuku | Diverse activities, flexible options | 4-7 | 3,995 – 5,995 |
How To Book Your Own Kumano Kodo Experience (Do It Yourself Booking)
Step 1. Choose your route and itinerary
Decide which route and itinerary you want to follow. The most popular and accessible route is the Nakahechi. It’s often completed within 8 days, but if there are other attractions you’d like to explore (and plenty of time and energy to spare), you can combine it with the Kohechi or the Iseji routes.
Step 2. Book your accommodation
I recommend staying in Ryokans or Minshukus as opposed to hotels. They offer the most comfortable stay with a homely feel. Some also have onsen or hot spring baths, which are a great way to relax and rejuvenate after a long day of walking.
My go-to online agencies are Booking.com and Kumano Travel. I especially love the latter because it offers accurate and updated information, which helps me make a more informed decision.
Step 3. Arrange your luggage and transportation
It’s a lot easier and more comfortable using a luggage shuttle service. Your luggage will be transferred from one accommodation to another, so you only have to carry a day pack with your essentials. Again, an excellent provider for this is Kumano Travel (if your accommodation doesn’t have the option). You can expect to pay around 1,000 yen per bag per day.
Alternatively, you can carry your own luggage. But I don’t recommend it. This will make your hike more difficult and less enjoyable.
Step 4. Get your local support and tour guidebook
Even if you’re hiking all by yourself, having local support is a smart idea. You’ll never know when issues may arise. Most tour operators provide you with maps, instructions, history, culture, and contact details for any emergencies.
What To Watch Out For When Booking The Kumano Kodo
Tip 1: The Weather and Seasons
You can hike all year round, but the best time to visit is spring. The weather is mild and pleasant, with the most stunning scenery. This also makes it the most popular and crowded of times. So you can expect higher prices.
If you opt for summer, be prepared for frequent rain and typhoons. There is a lot more scenic diversity, and the rainfall contributes to the refreshing waterfalls, but be prepared for the heat and the insects.
In this guide i share my thoughts on when’s best to walk the Kumano.
Tip 2: Plan For The Difficulty and fitness
The Kumano Kodo is not a walk in the park, but a serious hike that will test your fitness and stamina. It’s steep, rocky, and sometimes muddy and slippery. You might also find yourself walking for several hours a day in challenging weather conditions. While it’s safe to say you should prepare yourself physically by hiking on similar terrains, you should also prepare yourself mentally before embarking on the hike.
Tip 3: Pick A Good Tour Operators
Don’t just go for the cheapest option. Look for companies with experience, good reviews, and clear communication. This will make for a fantastic experience.
If you’re planning on guided tours, decide if you prefer the personalized attention of a small group or the social interaction of a larger one. Consider your comfort level with shared accommodation and transportation.
Another aspect that’s often overlooked is the inclusions and exclusions. Carefully read and understand what’s covered in the tour price (meals, accommodation, luggage transfers) and what’s not (flights, insurance, tips).
Tip 4: And book well in advance!!
Accommodation and services along the trail are in high demand. Book your trip as early as possible, especially if you are traveling during peak seasons or holidays. Some places have different policies and conditions–check-in times, cancellation fees–so be mindful of that before booking.
Here are the places i reccommend staying if you’re doing the Nakahechi Route.
Tip 5: Pack smartly
Packing for the hike requires a balance of comfort, preparedness, and minimizing your load. Here’s an overview of essential gear to bring along.
- Hiking boots
- Day pack
- Clothing: Layering is key, but ensure it’s adjustable for the season
- Sun protection
- Map, compass, or GPS
- First-aid kit
- Headlamp
- Trekking poles (optional but recommended)
You can checkout this article of mine on what to bring for the Kumano Kodo here.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which Kumano Kodo route is best?
The best route is the Nakahechi Trail. It’s the most popular, offers scenic diversity, and is moderately difficult. You can read my full guide on it here.
How many days do you need?
Depending on the route you choose, you can expect to complete the entire trail in as short as 4 days for the Nakahechi Route, or 8 Days for the Ise Route. This all depends on your speed and fitness, as well as what accommodation you end up securing.
Is the Kumano Kodo Worth It?
Although the hike is physically demanding, I believe it’s worth it. It has the most breathtaking scenery and gives you a chance to experience Japan’s rich culture.
If you love a good challenge, it’s a fantastic way to test your physical and mental limits, conquer rugged terrain, and experience a sense of accomplishment and inner peace., while connecting with fellow travelers.
Kumano Kodo Travel Planning Cheatsheet
(This list contains affiliate links which may earn me a small comission if you decide to puchase something - thank you!)
🚑 Should I buy travel insurance for Japan?
100% YES! — Japan has “free” healthcare but it’s only for citizens! Tourists need travel insurance in case anything happens on your visit. Also be aware many policies won't cover hiking as it's a high risk activity! (that's right, check the t&c's on your complimentary credit card insurance)
I highly recommend World Nomads as you can get specific add-ons for the crazy activities you're doing – and starts at just $7 a day!
🏩 What’s the best way to book my Kumano Kodo accommodation?
Your only realy two options here are Kumano Travel and Booking.com. Its a complicated process so I wrote this guide here on the best kumano kodo accomodation options
If you don't want to figure it all out (it's meant to be a holiday after all) you can book a package tour. Here are my recommendations for both guided and self-guided.
💸How do you pay for things in Japan?
Japan may have flying robots.. but they also still use cash! So you'll want to get some folding tender out from an ATM when you land. EFTPOS / Debit / Credit Card and Paywave (contactless payments) is common at bigger businesses but small bars, and street vendors want cash.
I personally use a Wise debit card for all my international money needs as they only convert the funds when you make payment, plus they offer a much better spread (margin on the true exhange rate) than the banks do. They work in all Japanese ATMs I tried.
🚙 Do you need to rent a car in Japan?
I wouldn't reccommend it — Transport in Japan is expensive whatever mode you chose, but fortunalty the publc transport system is out of this world in terms of both freqency and coverage. If you are heading to a lot of off the beaten track places, then you may want a rental. I use Discover Cars to find the cheapest rates on rentals cars and remember you can save money if you avoid picking up at the airport.
🚆 What about the JR Rail Pass?
We didn't - but it depends on the length and itenirary of your trip. The JR Pass is expensive (and just went up in price again!) and if you're walking the Kumano Kodo you wont need it for probably 6 days straight anyway.
Do the math, but in most cases buying the train fares you need, when you need it will work out more afforably overall - and give you more flexibility (as the JR Pass doesn't cover all lines)
📲 How do I get internet/data/wifi in Japan and on the trail?
This one needs a whole nother article, but the short version is local SIM cards are cheaper but generally require a fixed term contract. Tourist 'short stay' SIMs are a bit more expensive but will give you plenty of data while your visiting and are best for solo travelllers or purchase a international SIM before you leave (I reccommend Airalo for Japan) . If you're travelling as 2 or more people, renting a pocket WIFI unit from the airport is the most economical option.
✈️ What’s the best site to buy flights to Japan?
For finding cheap flights, I recommend Skyscanner. Once you find the flight you're looking for, I'd then suggest booking directly with the carrier (even if it costs a few $$ more than with one of the agreggators/agencies).
💧Can you drink the water on the Kumano Kodo?
Yes — Japan is very clean. In all townships you'll pass through and stay along the Kumano Kodo the tap water is drinkable. If you want to drink water from the rivers and streams you generally can but should do so at your own risk. ALWAYS follow best practice and drink from fast flowing water as far up stream as possible. I drank the water and was fine.. but i'd generally recommend a Brita Water Bottle for rehydrating on the trail safely.
🎫 Do I need a visa for Japan?
Likely Not — Japan now recognises 70 countries as 'visa exempt' for short term stay. So if you're a US, UK, NZ, AU and EU passport holder you don’t need a Japansese visas. However, some other countries do (check here!). And if you plan to stay for more than 90 days (an average tourist visa length), you will need to look into the Japanese working holiday visa scheme, or the new Digital Nomad visa scheme.
