Kumano Kodo Preparation: General Planning & Packing List
Packing List
Japanese accommodation generally provides pyjamas, shampoo, conditioner, body wash, toothbrush, and toothpaste. So I did not pack any of those except toothbrush & toothpaste.
Most accommodation has coin laundry facilities onsite. I chose to pack enough for 3-4days before needing laundry.
Technology
iPhone
iPad
Apple Watch
Power bank
Garmin inReach
AirPod
Headlamp
Charging cables
Toiletry
Deodorant
Lotion
Toothbrush/toothpaste
Sunscreen
Misc
First-aid Kit
Backpack Raincover
1x Hiking pole
Lightweight umbrella
2x 1L water bottle
Hero clip carabiner
Shoes
Columbia trail runner
Flip flops
Clothing
4x T-shirt
2x Shorts
1x Long pants
5x Underwear
4x Sports bra
1x Rain jacket
4x Socks
1x Gloves
1x Rain poncho
1x Hat
Backpack
Osprey Talon Pro 30L
2.5L crossbody (goes into my main bag)
Documentation
Passport
Wallet (credit card/cash)
Kumano Kodo Credetial
Trail map/bus schedule
Cash vs Credit Card
I carried a total of ¥30,000 for my two months in Japan, including hiking the Kumano Kodo. Most of my accommodations accepted credit cards or were prepaid through Agoda or Kumano Travel, so I only needed cash for some transportation, food, and emergencies.
Most grocery and convenience stores in small towns accept credit cards, but it's still good to have cash just in case. I mainly used AMEX and, occasionally, Visa. Most places that accept credit cards also take major brands and IC cards.
Keep in mind that Japan has introduced new ¥500 coins and ¥1,000 bills, which some vending machines and buses may not accept. If you're unsure, check for signs or ask the bus driver.
Cellphone Plans
Many carriers offer roaming plans (mine was C$16/day), but costs add up quickly. To save money, I compared eSIMs vs. physical SIMs and found eSIMs to be the better option since they can be set up before landing.
eSIM Pros & Cons
Pros:
Set up in advance using a QR code—just toggle it on upon arrival.
Similar in cost to a physical SIM, with many competitive options.
Can be used alongside a physical SIM—great for two-factor authentication or keeping your home number active.
Cons:
Your phone must be unlocked.
Requires an eSIM-compatible phone.
I chose Airalo’s 20GB for 30 days at C$31, which worked well for my trip.
Useful Apps
Google Maps: For transportation info and navigation around town
Google Translate: Helps communicating with locals and miscellaneous translation needs.
Japan Travel - Smart Transit: If you have a specific rail pass, you can use this to search for trains and it’ll show if it’s covered by your rail pass
AllTrails: Trail info app (does not have the exact routes that I took but you can piece together from the info available to complete it).
YAMAP: Popular trail info app in Japan (I personally find AllTrails easier to use)
Gaia GPS: Imported GPX onto this app for offline access
TripIT: Organized my itinerary
Agoda: Accommodation booking app
Useful Links
See accommodations list here