Kumano Kodo Nakahechi: Full Route Breakdown & Day-by-Day Stages
Here’s a quick breakdown of my Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route, with the actual distances, elevation gain, and trail times I recorded along the way. I’ve also included difficulty levels and where I stayed each night to help you get a feel for the rhythm of the trail. If you’re planning your own walk, this gives a clear snapshot of what each day looks like before diving into the individual posts.
For details on packing and general planning, see the packing list and guide or see the Accommodation & Expenses Report here.
Interested in doing both the Camino and Kumano Kodo? Check out my Dual Pilgrim Program Blog Post.
Day 1 — Takijiri-oji → Chikatsuyu-oji
Distance: 16.26 km
Elevation gain: 1,029 m
Duration: 4 hr 44 min (5 hr 32 min w/ breaks)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Accommodation: Miyoshi Ryokan
Read Day 1Day 2 — Chikatsuyu-oji → Hongu Taisha
Distance: 24.89 km
Elevation gain: 986 m
Duration: 6 hr 13 min (7 hr 16 min w/ breaks)
Difficulty: Hard
Accommodation: J-Hoppers Kumano Yunomine Guesthouse
Read Day 2Day 3 — Yunomine → Kawayu
Dainichi-goe 大日越: 3.61 km, 201 m gain, 1 hr 11 min (1 hr 19 min w/ breaks), Easy
Akagi-goe 赤城越: 9 km, 355 m gain, 2 hr 15 min (2 hr 21 min w/ breaks), Intermediate
Accommodation: Omuraya
Read Day 3Day 4 — Ukegawa → Koguchi
Distance: 14.29 km
Elevation gain: 682 m
Duration: 3 hr 27 min (3 hr 58 min w/ breaks)
Difficulty: Intermediate
Accommodation: @Koguchi
Read Day 4Day 5 — Koguchi → Nachi Taisha
Distance: 17.27 km
Elevation gain: 1,291 m
Duration: 5 hr 35 min (6 hr 8 min w/ breaks)
Difficulty: Challenging
Accommodation: Oyado Hana
Read Day 5Day 6 — Kii-Katsuura → Shingu
Distance: No hike — travel day by bus
Accommodation: (optional if staying in Shingu or nearby)
Read Day 6