My recent trip to Kumano Kodo was truly more comfortable than I had imagined.
Before setting off, I was a little worried. After all, the name "Kumano Kodo" conjures images of long distances, uphill climbs, and physical challenges. However, once I actually walked it, I realized that with the right route selection, Kumano Kodo can be a very comfortable and incredibly healing hiking experience.
There was no rush in the itinerary, and no constant hustling from one attraction to another just to check them off a list.
More often, I found myself walking slowly through the mountains and forests.
The sound of the wind rustling through the leaves was in my ears, and ancient mountain paths were beneath my feet. Occasionally, I'd encounter an uphill section, stop to catch my breath, and take in the surrounding scenery. When I got tired, I'd rest. There was no need to constantly chase time or push myself too hard.
I really love this way of traveling.
It's not about "completing a route," but truly experiencing the scenery along the way.
I was also very satisfied with the route I chose this time. The overall difficulty was quite comfortable, and for those who enjoy hiking but don't want to push their limits every day, I think it's genuinely very friendly.
I especially want to commend our tour guide this time.
They were incredibly patient throughout the journey. Whether it was the route, the pace, or the historical and cultural explanations along the way, nothing felt rushed. When people in the group had different energy levels, the guide would adjust the pace accordingly.
I believe a good tour guide doesn't just lead you through a path; more importantly, they help you truly relax during the journey.
Perhaps what attracts me most about Kumano Kodo is this sense of "slowness."
Walking on these ancient paths that have existed for so long, you suddenly realize that life doesn't always need to be a constant rush forward.
Sometimes, slowing down, looking at the trees, the mountains, and the people around you, allows you to discover many things you usually overlook.
This trip didn't have any particularly crazy itineraries or what's known as "special forces-style tourism." But precisely because of that, it left me with very comfortable memories.
If you also enjoy hiking, love nature, prefer a quieter way of traveling, and don't want to exhaust yourself to the point of questioning your life choices, I genuinely recommend experiencing Kumano Kodo.
Of course, this was just the beginning.
I'm already looking forward to my next visit to Japan, to allow myself more time to explore Kumano Kodo more deeply and slowly.
Next time, no rushing.
Just walking well, enjoying the scenery, and truly experiencing these mountains and forests.
Kumano Kodo, see you next time. 🌿
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Driver, Audio guide: Chinese, English, Japanese
Meals
