For over a thousand years, people from all walks of life, including retired emperors and aristocrats, have undertaken the challenging pilgrimage to Kumano. They traversed a network of ancient routes, now known as the Kumano Kodo, which winds through the rugged mountains of the Kii Peninsula.
The journey itself was a vital aspect of the pilgrimage, involving strenuous religious practices of worship and purification. Today, walking the historic Kumano Kodo offers a unique opportunity to immerse oneself in the spiritual and cultural heritage of Kumano’s serene countryside.
In July 2004, the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes were recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, forming part of the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.”
Embark on this journey with us!
This will be a 10 day pilgrimage walking along the Kumano Kodo. We will be following the Nakahechi Route it is the main route that links the three Grand Shrines of Kumano. The walking part of the pilgrimage is 4 days, 67 km … 42 miles.
One of Prayerful Path’s leaders and co founder, Cale Maddox, has worked in Japan for the past 9 months. With Cale’s knowledge, our local guide and myself, you will experience an unbelievable pilgrimage.
As you embark on this pilgrimage, you will immerse yourself in a journey rich with history, culture, and a deeply spiritual ambiance.
We are currently finalizing all the details, so stay tuned. Should have it completed and updated by the end of January 2025.
