Kumano Kodo Kii-ji Walking Tour from Hoshiya Station

Wakayama , Japan

Kumano Kodo Kii-ji Walking Tour from Hoshiya Station

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About this experience

This walking tour follows the northern section of the Kumano Kodo Kii-ji route, an ancient pilgrimage path once connecting Kyoto with Kumano. The trail reveals how faith and daily life coexisted in rural Japan. Begin at the Former Nakasuji Residence . Continue to the Kii Fudoki-no-Oka Museum, where ancient tombs and artifacts share stories of early worship in the Kii region.

Proceed to Yata Pass, a peaceful forest path lined with cedars and stones that recall the footsteps of pilgrims. Visit Itakiso Shrine, dedicated to the god of trees, and sense the deep reverence for nature that shaped Japanese spirituality. Finish at Shikinosato Park. Blending culture, nature, this route offers an authentic encounter with the quiet spirit of the Kumano Kodo.

We can also arrange a private car to go to the meeting point and go back from ending point at additional fee. Please feel free to inform us when you book.

Available options

Kii-ji Walking with Rice Ball

Rice Ball Option: Rice Ball will be offered at the beginning of the tour.

Kii-ji Walking with Snack

Snack Option: A light snack will be offered at the beginning of the tour.

What's included

Rice Ball or Snack

Admission Fee(Kii Fudoki-no-Oka Museum)

Admission Fee(Former Nakasuji Residence)

National Licensed English Speaking Guide. Please let us know if you prefer any other languages.

Detailed itinerary

The former Nakasuji Residence once belonged to a wealthy local farming family in the Edo period. Its traditional wooden house, earthen storehouse, and serene garden reveal the lifestyle of prosperous villagers. As you walk through the tatami rooms and corridors, imagine travelers resting here centuries ago along the Kumano pilgrimage route.
*note:Open only on weekends and national holidays from March to November.

This historical park and museum preserve ancient burial mounds and artifacts from the Kofun period. Walking among reconstructed tombs and stone monuments, you can sense how early worship and nature intertwined in this land. It’s an ideal place to feel the roots of faith that inspired the Kumano pilgrimage.

The Yata Pass marks a quiet stretch of the ancient Kumano Kodo Kii-ji route. Gentle slopes and cedar forests frame the stone path where pilgrims once walked toward the sacred shrines. This short hike captures the essence of the Kumano journey—tranquil, spiritual, and deeply connected to the land.

Itakiso Shrine enshrines the deity of trees, Itakeru-no-Mikoto, and has long been revered as the spiritual gateway of Kii Province. Surrounded by forest, the shrine radiates calm and reverence. Travelers once prayed here for safe journeys, while locals honored the sacred bond between trees and life itself.

This spacious park celebrates the harmony of agriculture and daily life. Visitors can enjoy local produce, handmade foods, and colorful flower fields. It’s a refreshing stop to rest and reflect on the journey, feeling the gentle rhythm of the countryside that has supported travelers along the Kumano Kodo for centuries.

What's not included

Lunch

Personal Expenses

Available languages

Guide guide

Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Specialized infant seats are available

Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries

Not recommended for pregnant travelers

Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health

Travelers should have a high level of physical fitness

The itinerary might be changed due to weather condition or other reasons.

We can accommodate dietary restrictions such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc. If you have dietary requirements. Please indicate it to the special requirements at the time of booking.

Meeting point

The guide will be waiting for you with your name sign in front of the ticket gate at Fuseya Station.
Please inform about your pick up details in advance.

Important notes

Please show the ticket to the guide when you meet.

About Wakayama

Wakayama is a coastal city in Japan known for its beautiful beaches, hot springs, and rich cultural heritage. It's home to the famous Koyasan (Mount Koya), a significant Buddhist pilgrimage site, and offers a mix of historical sites, natural beauty, and traditional Japanese experiences.

Top Attractions

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

A sacred Buddhist site and pilgrimage destination, Koyasan is home to numerous temples, including the famous Kongobu-ji and Okunoin Cemetery.

Historical/Cultural/Religious Full day Moderate to Expensive

Nanki-Shirahama Onsen

A famous hot spring resort town known for its beautiful beaches and therapeutic hot springs.

Nature/Relaxation Half day to full day Moderate

Wakayama Castle

A reconstructed castle with a museum and beautiful gardens, offering insights into the region's feudal history.

Historical/Architecture 1-2 hours Budget

Must-Try Local Dishes

Kishu Beef

Tender and flavorful beef from the Kishu region, often served as sushi or in hot pot dishes.

Dinner Contains meat, not suitable for vegetarians

Kakinoha-zushi

A local specialty of sushi wrapped in persimmon leaves, giving it a unique flavor and aroma.

Lunch/Dinner Contains fish, not suitable for vegetarians

Ishikiri Shabu-Shabu

A hot pot dish featuring thinly sliced meat and vegetables cooked in a flavorful broth.

Dinner Contains meat, can be made vegetarian

Popular Activities

Hiking in Koyasan Beach activities in Shirahama Hot spring bathing Temple stays Temple visits Traditional crafts workshops Swimming Boat tours

Best Time to Visit

March to May, September to November

These months offer pleasant weather with moderate temperatures, making it ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing. Spring brings cherry blossoms, while autumn offers beautiful fall foliage.

15-25°C (59-77°F) 59-77°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: Japanese
Widely spoken: English (limited)
English: Limited

Currency

Japanese Yen (JPY)

Time Zone

GMT+9

Electricity

100VV, 50/60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Very safe

Wakayama is a very safe destination with low crime rates. However, as with any travel, it's important to stay aware of your surroundings and take basic precautions.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Be cautious of unlicensed taxis or guides offering services at high prices
• Follow basic safety guidelines when using public transport, such as keeping an eye on your belongings

Getting there

By air

Kansai International Airport • 60 km (37 miles)

By train

Wakayama Station

By bus

Wakayama Station Bus Terminal, Kain Line Bus Terminal

Getting around

Public transport

Efficient and punctual, with frequent services. IC cards like ICOCA can be used for easy payment.

Taxis

Available • Apps: JapanTaxi, Uber

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Wakayama City Center Koyasan Town Shirahama Town

Day trips

Koyasan (Mount Koya)

40 km (25 miles) • Full day

A sacred Buddhist site with numerous temples, cemeteries, and hiking trails.

Nanki-Shirahama Onsen

60 km (37 miles) • Half day to full day

A popular hot spring resort town with beautiful beaches and therapeutic baths.

Festivals

Koyasan Fire Festival • August 13-15 Shirahama Summer Festival • July to August

Pro tips

Visit Koyasan early in the morning to experience the peaceful atmosphere before the day-trippers arrive
Try a shukubo (temple lodging) experience for a unique and authentic cultural immersion
Sample local specialties like Kishu beef and Kakinoha-zushi at traditional restaurants
Use an IC card (like ICOCA) for convenient and seamless payment on public transportation
Pack comfortable walking shoes for exploring historical sites and natural attractions