Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, Daimon-zaka

The Kumano Kodo in midsummer isn't a season where you can simply say, "Just dress lightly and you'll be fine." The mountains trap humidity, making it hard for sweat to dry. On top of that, preparing for sudden showers and insects is essential.

In this article, we organize what to wear on the Kumano Kodo in August around a single principle: "how to release sweat." The trick is to think not just about staying cool, but also about how quickly your clothes dry and how well they protect your skin.

The Kumano Kodo in August: More "Humid" Than "Hot"

When you enter the cedar and cypress forests, the air can feel noticeably cooler than in the sun. However, along valley trails and stone-paved ascents where breezes don't flow easily, the humidity makes the heat feel much heavier on your body.

What matters is accepting from the start that you will sweat. Choosing clothes that quickly wick sweat away and dry easily helps reduce the drain on your stamina.

The Basics: "Quick-Drying, Lightweight, and Easy to Move In"

For the Upper Body, Choose a Quick-Drying Shirt

Synthetic fibers like polyester, or hiking wear marketed as quick-drying, are your best friends. Cotton T-shirts hold onto sweat and don't dry well, so they become heavy and chilly—a fabric best avoided.

Walking in just a short-sleeved shirt feels great in this season, but many people also choose lightweight long sleeves. They protect your arms from both the sun and insects.

For the Lower Body, Choose Pants That Move Easily

On trails with many stone steps and elevation changes, you'll be lifting your legs up and down frequently. Stretchy pants prevent tightness around the knees and make walking easier. Shorts are cool, but keep in mind that your skin is more exposed to grass and insects.

For Your Feet, Don't Forget "Spare Socks"

Socks damp with sweat easily cause blisters. In addition to well-worn shoes, packing a lightweight pair of spare socks to change into during breaks will give you peace of mind.

Add Sun and Insect Protection with "Accessories"

In the hot season, adjusting with accessories keeps you lighter on your feet than adding more clothing.

On Days with Sudden Showers, Carry "Lightweight Rain Gear"

Mountain weather in summer can change suddenly. Packing one lightweight, compact rain jacket means you won't be caught off guard by a sudden downpour. For more on rain gear, see our separate article, "What to Wear on the Kumano Kodo in the Rain."

Think of Timing and Hydration as "Part of Your Outfit"

On hot days, simply starting your walk during the cooler early hours makes a big difference in how your body feels. During the hottest part of the day, don't force yourself to keep walking—take longer breaks in the shade to stay safe.

Drink water frequently, and be mindful of replenishing the salt lost through sweat as well. If you feel even slightly off, the choice to rest early or turn back is itself an essential piece of gear on the midsummer Kodo.

One "Change of Clothes" After Your Walk for Comfort

If you visit shrines or ride the bus in sweat-soaked clothes, air conditioning can chill your body more than you'd expect. Having one dry shirt on hand also helps you mentally reset.

Summary | In Midsummer, Pair "Drying Clothes" with "Protective Accessories"

The basics for the Kumano Kodo in August are a three-part approach: release sweat with quick-drying clothes, protect your skin with a hat and insect repellent, and prepare for sudden showers with rain gear. Rather than cool clothes, choose clothes that dry. With this perspective, you should be able to walk the lush green summer Kodo comfortably from start to finish.

Image: 熊野古道中辺路　大門坂 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)