Kumano

Kumano (熊野) invites you to explore its rich spiritual heritage nestled at the southern tip of the Kii Peninsula, just 100 kilometers from Osaka and Kyoto. This enchanting region, spanning Wakayama and Mie prefectures, is home to the revered Kumano Sanzan—three sacred shrines: Hongu Taisha, Nachi Taisha, and Hayatama Taisha. For over a millennium, pilgrims have traversed the Kumano Kodo walking trails, which connect these ancient sites steeped in mythology, where Japan's first emperor, Jimmu, sought to unify the nation.

Kumano is not only a spiritual destination but also a place of breathtaking landscapes and charming coastal towns. Enjoy rejuvenating hot springs in Shirahama and Katsuura or admire the stunning scenery in Kumano City and Kushimoto. Recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2004, Kumano’s sacred sites and pilgrimage routes, along with nearby Koyasan, Yoshino, and Ominesan, offer visitors a unique blend of history and tranquility. Discover the beauty and spirituality of Kumano, where every step echoes centuries of devotion.