OUT OF TOWN
JAPAN
Kumano Kodo
The Kumano Kodo is a series of pilgrimage trails that wind through the mountains of Wakayama and rural countrysides.
A fabulous way to explore the beautiful mountains and countryside
The three grand shrines of Kumano - Kumano Hongu taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kumana Nachi Taisha have been places of pilgrimage for aristocrats and the imperial family site the 10th century. Over time it became a pilgrimage for all and by the late 15th century most pilgrims along the Kumano were commoners.
There are five routes leading to the three grand shrines - we walked the Nakahechi route which imperial pilgrims from Kyoto once walked.Break up into different days and walks
Some choose to do the work as the pilgrims have done through the ages, stopping at each shrine and recording the stops with a stamp. We just enjoyed the exercise and scenery
The Nakahechi pilgrimage route starts from Tanabe on the western coast of the Kii Peninsula and traverses east into the mountains towards the Kumano grand shrines. It is the most popular route for pilgrims from western Japan. Starting in the 10th century, the Nakahechi route was extensively used by the imperial family on pilgrimage from Kyoto. This trail has traditional lodgings in isolated villages along the way and is excellent for multi-day walks. https://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/kumano-kodo/
Include places we stayed?
Nakasendo Way
Break up into different days and walks
Include places we stayed?
Nara, Japan
General highlights
Walk from Kasuga Taisha Shrine - Todaiji Temple see https://www.alltrails.com/trail/japan/nara/kasuga-taisha-shrine-todaiji-temple-great-buddha-hall
Kyoto, Japan
Include general info and highlights (Botanic ga rdens, riverside, Okochi-Sanso Villa and garden
Bike ride (hired ebike from our hotel but there are many places to do this from)
Philosophers Walk
Could suggest walk from Arashiyama Monkey Park to Okochi-Sanso Villa (about 20 minute walk between the two (with big hill to monkeys) plus time to walk around the beautiful garden as well as bamboo grove and the twon - very busy at times
Tokyo, Japan
General highlights
Walk around park/garden Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden (about 4 ks)