Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Day 2: Chikatsuyu - Hongu Taisha
Today was the longest day of my Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. I took the first bus from Kii-Tanabe Station to Nonoka Ipposugi, then hiked 1.7 km uphill to the Tsugizakura-Oji trailhead. The hike today was mostly descend than ascend, with the steepest part being the semi-permanent detour trail. My goal was to reach Hongu Taisha in time so that I can obtain my dual pilgrim certificate and make the last bus towards Yunomine Onsen.
I arrived in Hongu at 14:45 and went to the Kumano Hongu Heritage Center to submit my credential and Camino de Santiago proof for the dual pilgrim certificate. Then, I visited the temple office to receive a special golden shell only available for the 20th anniversary of World Heritage recognition. The ceremony concluded at the taiko drum beside the temple. With my certificate and golden shell in hand, I caught the bus to Yunomine Onsen in high spirits.
I arrived at my hostel in Yunomine Onsen, which had three private baths. Soaking in the onsen was the perfect way to recover.
Route Detail
Distance: 24.89km from Nonoka Ipposugi bus stop to Kumano Hongu Heritage Center
Total elevation gain: 986m
Time: 6h 13m (total time with breaks 7h 16m)
Difficulty: Challenging
Transportation
Bus Kii-Tababe Station to Nonoka Ipposugi ¥1490 (cash)
Bus Hongu Taisha bus stop to Yunomine Onsen bus stop ¥310 (cash)
Accommodation & Food
J-Hoppers Kumano Yunomine Guesthouse (booked via Agoda) C$30.35
Food ¥3150
