PROPOSED BY CANH CUNG

KUMANO KODO EXPERIENCE

An adventure into nature — where past and present intertwine with every step
Each stride unlocks ancient doors that lead back to the spiritual roots of Japan.
00
00
00
00

Days

Hours

Minutes

Seconds

31.10.2024 - 04.11.2024

Dates:

Why should you join the Kumano Kodo journey?

  • Embark on a meaningful journey to reflect on life’s purpose
  • A healthy challenge to strengthen both body and mind
  • Escape the routine of daily life and immerse yourself in nature, reconnecting with life’s essentials
  • Embrace cultural exchange by meeting fellow travelers from around the world, sharing stories and experiences together
  • Discover the legends and mystical tales surrounding the ancient paths once walked by emperors and samurai
  • Explore local architectural art forms that reflect a unique cultural identity
  • Learn about regional traditions and soak in the distinctive atmosphere of hidden mountain villages
  • Reflect on universal moral values: brotherhood, hospitality, and solidarity along the way
  • Savor the diversity of Japanese cuisine, enjoy local specialties, and relax in an onsen after a long walk
  • Earn a rare opportunity to receive a dual certificate for completing two UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage routes
The Kumano Kodo trail network is located on the Kii Peninsula in the Kansai region on Japan’s main southern island, Honshu. This is the largest peninsula in Japan, known for its mountainous terrain, dense forests, and long, scenic coastline. The trails of Kumano Kodo connect the prefectures of Osaka, Nara, Mie, and Wakayama. In addition to leading to the sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines, the routes also guide pilgrims to other sacred mountains such as Koyasan, Yoshino, and Omine.
The Kumano Kodo consists of seven main routes:

How Many Routes Make Up the Kumano Kodo?

Osaka

Kii Peninsula

The Meaning of “Kumano Kodo" 熊野古道

Kodo” means “ancient roads” or “pilgrimage trails,” referring to long-distance walking paths. The name originates from the sacred region of Kumano, home to three revered shrines connected by a network of trails renowned for their natural beauty and deep spiritual significance. These trails captivate travelers with their rugged paths, many of which cross mountain peaks over 1,000 meters high. Kumano Kodo is considered one of the most prestigious spiritual pilgrimage routes in the world.
Begins in Osaka or Kyoto and runs southward along the Kii Peninsula.
  • Kiiji Route (紀伊路 - 120km): tap to see more
Begins in the village of Takijiri-oji and leads to the Hongu Taisha and Nachi Taisha shrines. This is the most popular route.
  • Nakahechi Route (中辺路 - 38km): tap to see more
Connects Danjo Garan Temple in Koyasan with Hongu Taisha Shrine.
  • Choishimichi Route (24km): tap to see more
Starts from the Ise Grand Shrine (Ise-Jingu) and leads to the Kumano Sanzan shrines.
  • Iseji Route (伊勢路 - 170km): tap to see more
The longest and most difficult route. It links Yoshino to Kumano, traversing rugged and remote mountainous terrain.
  • Omine Okugakemichi Route (大峯奥駈道 - 100km): tap to see more
Follows the western coastline of the Kii Peninsula, running from Tanabe to Nachi Taisha.
  • Ohechi Route (大辺路 – 120km): tap to see more
Connects Koyasan to Hongu Taisha. This is a challenging route that crosses several high mountain ranges and requires good physical fitness and prior hiking experience.
  • Kohechi Route (小辺路 - 70km): tap to see more

Nakahechi Route (中辺路)

This is the most popular route among the Kumano Kodo trails. It was historically used by the imperial family and pilgrims during the Heian period (794–1185) to travel to the three Grand Shrines of Kumano: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Kumano Hayatama Taisha.
The group will trek 3 segments with a total distance of 32km:
  • Segment 1: 13km from Kii-Tanabe Station to Nakahechi
  • Segment 2: 17km from Nakahechi to Kumano Hongu Taisha
  • Segment 3: 2km from Kumano Hayatama Taisha to Kumano Nachi Taisha
  • The segment between Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha will be traveled by vehicle. 
Registration period: 15.08.2024 - 05.09.2024
50,000,000 VND per person
  • Pick-up and drop-off at designated meeting points
  • Professional tour guide and Vietnamese interpreter accompanying the entire journey
  • Luggage transport service between checkpoints
  • Hotel accommodation at each stop
  • Daily breakfast at the hotel and lunch boxes during trekking days
  • Dinners at hotels or selected local restaurants
  • Single or dual pilgrimage completion stamp for participating in the Kumano Kodo trail
THE PACKAGE INCLUDES:
(Approximately 2,000 USD or 1,860 EUR)

Itinerary

  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Transfer to the starting point
  • Trekking 17km (~8.5 hours)
  • Lunch box provided en route
  • Hotel check-in & rest
  • Recover with a relaxing onsen (hot spring bath)
  • End of Day 3

DAY 3 - 02.11.2024

STAGE 2: Nakahechi to Kumano Hongu Taisha
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Transfer by vehicle to Shingu area
  • Visit Kamikura Shrine and Kumano Hayatama Taisha
  • Trekking 2km (~2.5 hours)
  • Visit Nachi Taisha Shrine and admire Nachi Waterfall
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Explore the natural rock formation Hashigui Iwa
  • Return to Tanabe city center to receive your certificate
  • Farewell dinner

DAY 4 - 03.11.2024

STAGE 3: Kumano Hayatama Taisha to Kumano Nachi Taisha
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Transfer to the starting point
  • Trekking 13km (~9 hours)
  • Lunch box provided en route
  • Hotel check-in & rest
  • Relax and recover with an onsen (hot spring bath)
  • End of Day 2

DAY 2 - 01.11.2024

STAGE 1: Kii-Tanabe Station to Nakahechi
  • Breakfast at the hotel
  • Check out and transfer back to Osaka
  • Visit and shop at Rinku Premium Outlets
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Farewell to the group

DAY 5 - 04.11.2024

FREE TIME & FAREWELL
  • Pick-up at the designated meeting point in Osaka
  • Explore the coastal city of Wakayama
  • Photo stop at Wakayama Castle
  • Lunch at a local restaurant
  • Transfer to Tanabe city center to receive pilgrimage passports
  • Sightseeing in Shirahama Town: Engetsuto Island, Senjojiki Rock Plateau, Shirarahama Beach
  • Hotel check-in & rest

DAY 1 - 31.10.2024

Welcome Day

Health Advisory:

If you have any allergies to food, beverages, or medications, please inform the organizing team in advance. This will help us better prepare your meals and ensure your absolute safety during the tour.
Please do not participate in the tour if you have any of the following health conditions:

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey, please make sure to prepare well in advance by addressing the following:

Important Notes Before Trekking

Please refer to and choose at least one of the suggested workout routines below to ensure the trek matches your physical capacity. We strongly recommend starting your training in advance to improve your fitness, help your body adapt to physical activity, and build endurance for the journey.

At-Home Exercises:

Here are some useful tips to help you conquer the trail more smoothly!

Trekking Tips & Tricks

To register as a Dual Pilgrim, please make sure to prepare the following:
Bring your Compostela Certificate and Camino Passport as proof of completing the Camino de Santiago.
For Kumano Kodo, ensure that your Dual Pilgrim Credential has collected the required number of official stamps along the trail.
After completing your second pilgrimage route, visit one of the designated official offices below to present your completion certificates and any related documentation:
You can register and receive your Dual Pilgrim Certificate at one of the seven official locations:

Dual Pilgrim Registration Requirements

  • Tanabe Tourist Information Center
  • Kumano Hongu Heritage Center (inside Kumano Hongu Taisha)
  • Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Center (next to Takijiri-oji Trailhead)
  • Shingu City Tourist Information Center
  • Nachi-Katsuura Tourist Information Center (next to JR Kii-Katsuura Station)
  • Central Information Center (Koyasan Shukubo Temple Lodging Association)
  • Koyasan Tourist Information Center
Stamp Stations along the Nakahechi Route - Kumano Kodo: Stamp stations are available throughout the Nakahechi Route of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. Each location features a unique Kumano Kodo Stamp, typically housed in a small wooden structure resembling a shrine, standing about waist-high (as shown in the photo). Most rest stops along the trail are equipped with these stamp boxes.
Inside the box, you will find a stamp and an ink pad. After using it, please close the ink pad cover properly to prevent it from drying out for the next pilgrim.
The final stamp to complete the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage is the Kumano Hongu Taisha stamp. Make sure to place this stamp on the first page of the Kumano Kodo side in your Dual Pilgrim Credential, under the heading:
"COMPLETION OF PILGRIMAGE".
Note: Stamp locations at sacred sites may occasionally be moved. If you cannot find a stamp, please ask the shrine or temple staff for assistance.

Kumano Kodo Stamps

The Dual Pilgrim symbol combines a scallop shell and a three-legged crow, rendered in warm shades of orange-evoking the beautiful hues of sunrise and sunset.

What is a Dual Pilgrim?

A Dual Pilgrim is someone who has completed two iconic long-distance walking routes recognized by UNESCO as World Heritage Sites:
The Camino de Santiago, a Catholic pilgrimage route in Spain
The Kumano Kodo, a sacred route of Shinto and Buddhist significance in Japan
To receive the Dual Pilgrim title, you must walk a significant portion of both trails. You may choose to complete either route first.
Requirements to qualify:
- Camino de Santiago: Walk at least the last 100 km or cycle at least the last 200 km
- Kumano Kodo: Walk one of the four main routes: Nakahechi, Kohechi, Ohechi, or Iseji
The Dual Pilgrim Credential is a special passport designed for long-distance walkers who undertake both the Kumano Kodo in Japan and the Camino de Santiago in Spain. This unique credential is used to collect stamps along each trail, serving as a personal record of the two pilgrimages.
The passport has two sides:
- One side for the Kumano Kodo
- One side for the Camino de Santiago
If you have already completed your Credencial del Peregrino and collected the required stamps along the Camino de Santiago, you only need to collect the stamps on the Kumano Kodo side of your Dual Pilgrim Credential to be eligible for the Dual Pilgrim recognition.

Dual Pilgrim Credential

Dual Pilgrim Certification (click to expand)

The Dual Pilgrim Completion Certificate is an official recognition for completing both the Camino de Santiago and the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes. This certificate is presented by the Head Priest of Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine as a gesture of gratitude and congratulations to Dual Pilgrims.
The certificate is made from local handcrafted Washi paper and features the character for “Way” (道) written by the Head Priest himself on the back. It serves as a meaningful memento for pilgrims to remember their incredible journey on both the Camino de Santiago and Kumano Kodo.
Dual Pilgrims also receive a limited-edition Dual Pilgrim badge, and have the opportunity to be featured on the Dual Pilgrim page of spiritual-pilgrimages.com (registration and information submission as per the website’s instructions are required).
For those wishing to share their journey, Dual Pilgrims are welcome to voluntarily contribute their stories on the website below:
http://dual-pilgrim.spiritual-pilgrimages.com/
Dual Pilgrim Completion Certificate - formal certificate of achievement
Dual Pilgrim Badge - special lapel pin for Dual Pilgrims

Information about the Dual Pilgrim Certification

Dual Pilgrim Credential
Stamps have been collected on the Kumano Kodo side
Compostela Certificate
Credencial del Peregrino
Camino Passport

TANABE CITY 田辺

  • Tanabe is the second-largest city in Wakayama and serves as the gateway to the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.
  • The small neighborhoods of Kii-Tanabe may appear very different from the dazzling and bustling scenes of Tokyo or Osaka, but they offer evening entertainment that rivals Japan’s major cities.
  • The area in front of Kii-Tanabe Station is filled with cozy restaurants and small bars serving affordable and fresh local dishes and drinks.
  • Tanabe Fish Market opens at 3 PM, meaning that if you dine in the evening, your sushi will be incredibly fresh.
  • A five-minute walk from Kii-Tanabe Station leads to Tokei-jinja Shrine, which was recently added to the list of UNESCO Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.

Destination Information

What is Kumano Sanzan?

Kumano Sanzan is the collective name for the three grand shrines: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Nachi Taisha, and Kumano Hayatama Taisha. These are among the most sacred sites in Japan and serve as spiritual centers for both Shinto and Shugendo Buddhism.
All pilgrimage routes of the Kumano Kodo pass through Kumano Hongu Taisha, the main shrine and the spiritual heart of the Kumano Kodo, marking the final destination in the journey toward enlightenment.
The Kumano shrines embody the fusion of Shinto and Buddhism, a belief system known as Shinbutsu-shugo (literally “the merging of kami and buddhas”). The idea that kami (Shinto deities) exist in all things on Earth has been deeply rooted in Japanese culture since ancient times. When Buddhism was introduced to Japan in the 6th century, these Shinto deities were reinterpreted as manifestations of Buddhist figures, creating the unique spiritual synthesis of Shinbutsu-shugo.
  • Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine is the spiritual center of Kumano Sanzan and the head shrine of over 4,700 Kumano shrines across Japan.
  • Nestled deep within the Kii Mountain Range, Kumano Hongu Taisha is reached by ascending 158 stone steps. The main shrine impresses with its majestic wooden structure, blending harmoniously with the surrounding natural landscape. Its roof, made from rough, bark-like Hinoki cypress, is a striking architectural feature that embodies traditional Japanese craftsmanship.
  • Originally built over 900 years ago, the shrine has withstood the test of time. In 1889, a devastating flood destroyed its original site at Oyunohara. The remaining parts were carefully relocated and restored to their current location in Tanabe.
  • Marking the original site of the shrine stands the largest Torii gate in the world, known as O Torii ("O" meaning "grand"). Constructed from steel in the year 2000, it stands 33.9 meters tall, 42 meters wide, and weighs 172 tons, serving as a powerful symbol of the sacred heritage of Kumano.

KUMANO HONGU TAISHA
熊野本宮大社

  • Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine is believed to have been established in the year 128 to enshrine the Kumano deities. The shrine, constructed from wood and natural materials, features a beautifully lacquered red main hall. This architectural style recreates the world of the Kumano Mandala, which depicts the Buddhist universe as visualized during the Kamakura period (1185–1336).
  • Within the shrine grounds stands the Shinpokan Treasure Hall, which houses around 1,200 artifacts, many of which are designated National Treasures of Japan.
  • One of the shrine’s most sacred symbols is the ancient Nagi no Ki tree, believed to be over 1,000 years old. It is revered as a symbol of longevity and good fortune and has been designated a National Natural Monument.
  • Above the shrine, on a steep hillside of Mt. Gongen, lies Gotobiki-Iwa, a massive boulder whose name derives from the local word “gotobiki,” meaning “toad,” due to its resemblance to a giant toad. To reach it, visitors must climb 538 stone steps. Nestled at the base of this boulder is Kamikura-jinja Shrine, believed to be the original sacred site where the Kumano deities descended to earth before being worshipped at the three Kumano Sanzan shrines. The location also offers a stunning panoramic view of Shingu City and the Kumano-nada Sea, making it a popular scenic spot for visitors.

KUMANO HAYATAMA TAISHA
熊野速玉大社

  • Kumano Nachi Taisha is located on Mt. Nachi, approximately 350 meters above sea level. The shrine, with its striking orange and white colors, enshrines 12 deities of Kumano as well as the spirit of the Nachi Waterfall. As one of the designated Kumano Sanzan shrines, it serves as a spiritual destination for many pilgrims walking along the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes.
  • Within the shrine grounds stands a nearly 1,000-year-old camphor tree, considered sacred. A naturally formed hollow in its trunk allows visitors to squeeze through and listen to its ancient secrets.
  • Daimon-zaka, a 600-meter-long cobblestone staircase with 267 steps, leads pilgrims from the valley floor to the shrine. The path is flanked by centuries-old cedar trees, offering a serene and majestic approach to the sacred site.
  • Nearby is Seiganto-ji, a vivid three-story red pagoda, which stands gracefully in front of Nachi-no-Otaki, the highest waterfall in Japan. The Nachi Waterfall plunges 133 meters and spans 13 meters wide, and is revered as a sacred site in its own right.

KUMANO NACHI TAISHA
熊野那智大社

Yatagarasu - The Divine Bird

Yatagarasu, the three-legged crow, is believed to be a sacred messenger of the gods and is a symbol you’ll often encounter in the Kumano region. According to the Nihon Shoki (Chronicles of Japan) and the Kojiki (Records of Ancient Matters)-two of Japan’s oldest texts on history and mythology-Yatagarasu guided Emperor Jimmu, Japan’s first emperor, through the Kumano region on his journey to unify the country.
Yatagarasu is also famously known as the symbol of the Japan Football Association.
At the three Kumano Sanzan shrines, you can purchase a Yatagarasu ema (wooden prayer plaque), where you can write your wishes and prayers on the back.

Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Stamp Booklets

The Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Stamp Booklet is a special item designed for pilgrims journeying along the Kumano Kodo routes. It serves as a way to document and commemorate your pilgrimage-similar to a passport-by collecting stamps from key stops along the trail such as shrines, lodges, or information centers.
Managed by Wakayama Prefecture, the booklet contains pages for 36 different stamp locations, which is more than the number required to complete the Dual Pilgrim campaign.
Kumano Kodo Completion Certificate
Certificate of Completion
The Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage passes through four towns: Nakahechi (12 stamps), Hongu (8 stamps), Shingu City (8 stamps), and Nachikatsuura (8 stamps). Once you have collected all the required stamps in a specific town, you must submit your stamp booklet in person to that town’s tourism association to receive the official completion stamp from the Chairperson.

Afterward, fill out the registration form labeled “応募申込書” on the back cover of the booklet and send it to the following address for verification:
Wakayama Prefectural Government
Tourism Promotion Section, World Heritage Division
Department of Commerce, Industry, Tourism and Labor
〒640-8585 JAPAN
Wakayama-kencho Shoko Kanko Rodo-bu Kanko Shinkoka Sekaiisan-han
和歌山県庁 商工観光労働部 観光振興課 世界遺産班

Upon successful verification, you will receive the Kumano Kodo Completion Certificate issued by the Governor of Wakayama Prefecture, and your stamp booklet will be returned to you by post.
Please note that the stamp booklet is only available in Japanese and costs 100 yen per copy. It can be purchased at the following four tourism associations:
  • Nakahechi Town Tourism Association
  • Kumano Hongu Tourism Association
  • Shingu City Tourism Association
  • Nachikatsuura Town Tourism Association
Note: The Kumano Kodo Completion Certificate issued by Wakayama Prefecture does not qualify for Dual Pilgrim certification.
The completion certificates from the four towns have been officially stamped by the Chairperson.

Additional Information

Singel Room

NH Collection Santiago de Compostela

Được bao quanh bởi công viên xanh gần hồ nước yên bình là NH Collection Santiago de Compostela, một nơi nghỉ dưỡng hiện đại, đặc biệt trong khuôn viên xinh đẹp của riêng nó. Nơi đây chỉ cách Phố cổ Santiago, Di sản Thế giới được UNESCO công nhận và nhà thờ cao vút ở đó vài phút đi bộ. NH Collection Santiago de Compostela là một công trình được trang hoàn bởi ánh sáng và sự rộng rãi, hòa hợp với công viên xung quanh và tràn ngập sự yên tĩnh. Cửa sổ lớn tràn ngập ánh nắng vào sảnh và các khu vực chung trong khi sân hiên và khu vườn mời gọi bạn bước ra ngoài và khám phá khuôn viên.
Address: Av. do Burgo das Nacións, 4, 15704 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

Singel Room

Parador De Santiago De Compostela  
Hostal dos Reis Católicos

Parador de Santiago de Compostela được coi là khách sạn lâu đời nhất ở Tây Ban Nha. Nó nằm ở Plaza del Obradoiro bên cạnh Nhà thờ Santiago de Compostela, một trong những nơi được viếng thăm nhiều nhất trên thế giới và đã chứng kiến ​​sự chuyển động của những người hành hương qua nhiều thế kỷ.
Address: Praza do Obradoiro, 1, 15705 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

Singel Room

Hotel Eurostar Araguaney

Khách sạn Eurostars Araguaney là khách sạn 5 sao uy tín, nằm ở trung tâm thành phố Santiago de Compostela. Được thành lập vào năm 1985, khách sạn sang trọng và khác biệt với 81 phòng được trang bị đầy đủ, kết hợp các phòng cổ điển với các phòng khác mang lại cảm giác tiên phong hơn. Khách sạn có hồ bơi, phòng tập thể dục, phòng tắm hơi, bãi đậu xe riêng và tất cả các loại tiện nghi dành cho khách hàng, bao gồm cả một khu phức hợp
Address: Rúa de Alfredo Brañas, 5, 15701 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

Singel Room

Hotel Compostela

Khách sạn 4 sao tọa lạc tại trung tâm Santiago de Compostela, cách Nhà thờ chưa đầy 200m. Khách sạn trở thành tòa nhà lịch sử ở quảng trường Plaza de Galicia nổi tiếng, Di sản Thế giới được UNESCO công nhận. Hotel Compostela có mặt tiền tuyệt đẹp và thiết kế nội thất bằng gỗ xinh xắn. Một không gian truyền thống và hiện đại kết hợp với nhau để cung cấp cho bạn cơ sở vật chất và dịch vụ chất lượng cao nhất. 
Address: Rúa do Hórreo, 1, 15701 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

CLASSIC DUS

Santiago Plaza

Nằm trong một khu vực yên tĩnh, cách ga xe lửa 700 m và gần trung tâm lịch sử của thành phố, kết nối thuận tiện của khách sạn này mời gọi quý khách khám phá Santiago de Compostela và Galicia. Trong các phòng bên ngoài hiện đại và vui vẻ, quý khách có thể nghỉ ngơi sau một ngày căng thẳng.
Address: Rúa do Restollal, 24, 15702 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

SINGEL ROOM

Exe Peregrino

Trong khu phố yên tĩnh Santa Marta ở thủ đô Galicia, cách trung tâm Santiago một quãng ngắn. Khách sạn ấm cúng này có các phòng sáng sủa được trang trí bằng gỗ với tông màu ấm áp, hiện đại; mời gọi bạn thư giãn và ngắt kết nối. Ngoài ra, Exe Peregrino còn có những khu vườn rộng lớn ở ba tầng, sân hiên nhìn toàn cảnh với tầm nhìn ngoạn mục và hồ bơi ngoài trời, cho phép bạn tìm thấy phần còn lại mà bạn đang tìm kiếm.
Address: Av. de Rosalía de Castro, S/N, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM

SINGEL ROOM

Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago

Khách sạn Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago trang nhã, cách Khuôn viên Quốc tế Xuất sắc của Đại học Santiago một quãng ngắn, là khách sạn hoàn hảo cho chuyến thăm khó quên tới thủ đô Galicia .
Chỉ cách ga xe lửa và trung tâm lịch sử vài phút, với những con đường lát đá cuội quyến rũ cũng như nhà thờ nổi tiếng và ấn tượng, Eurostars Gran Hotel Santiago cung cấp cho du khách một loạt dịch vụ chất lượng và bầu không khí tuyệt vời nhất , rất quan tâm đến những chi tiết nhỏ. 143 phòng của khách sạn được thiết kế trang trí vô cùng tỉ mỉ , tạo nên những không gian trang nhã được trang bị nhiều dịch vụ tốt nhất. 
Address: Avenida do Mestre Mateo, 27, 15706 Santiago de Compostela, A Coruña, Spain

DOUBLE ROOM