Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Day 4: Ukegawa - Koguchi
I knew today’s trail wouldn’t be too difficult based on the route profile. After a hearty breakfast at the ryokan, I picked up my packed lunch and took a short bus ride from Kawayu Onsen to the trailhead.
The trail was well maintained and much quieter than the previous Nakahechi sections. The first 2.5 km was a gentle climb, followed by a steeper 2 km ascent. At the highest point, I was treated to stunning mountain range views and took a short break to enjoy the scenery. There was a damaged section due to a rockslide, but it was manageable. I stopped again to eat my lunch before starting the descent, which was straightforward. I passed a few hikers going the opposite way. The final stretch was mostly road walking towards the Ogumotori-goe trailhead.
Tonight’s accommodation is a 15-minute drive deeper into the mountains from the trailhead. I was told to call the host from a small convenience store nearby. I restocked on snacks and drinks before calling for pickup. To my surprise, I was the only guest—so I had the whole place to myself! Dinner was deer sukiyaki, a first for me, and it was delicious. I spent the rest of the evening relaxing under a kotatsu and reading.
Route Detail
Distance: 14.29km from Ukegawa bus stop to Ogumotori-goe trailhead
Total elevation gain: 682m
Time: 3h 27m (total time with breaks 3h 58m)
Difficulty: Moderate
Transportation
Bus Kawayu Onsen bus stop to Ukegawa bus stop ¥210 (cash)
Accommodation & Food
@Koguchi (booked via Kumano Travel) C$103.30
Food ¥1038
