Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

What Kind of Trail Is the Kumano Kodo Kohechi for Beginners?

Among the Kumano Kodo routes, the Kohechi holds a somewhat special place. It links Koyasan with the Three Grand Shrines of Kumano — a path that connects the "faith of the mountains" with the "faith of Kumano." It winds through the depths of the Kii Mountain Range, crossing several passes over 1,000 meters in elevation.

To be honest, walking the entire Kohechi route is a high hurdle for beginners. The total distance is around 70 km, with constant ups and downs. Some sections pass only through scattered mountain villages.

Still, there's no need to write it off as "impossible for beginners." With the right approach, even first-timers can get a real feel for the atmosphere of the Kohechi.

Three Points Where Beginners Tend to Struggle

1. Continuous Passes Make Pacing Difficult

The Kohechi is a trail of "climb, descend, climb again." Even when the daily walking distance looks short, the accumulated elevation gain takes a toll on your legs. Planning by distance alone can leave you taking far longer than expected.

2. Few Places to Resupply or Bail Out

In the deep mountain sections, there are stretches with no shops or lodgings. Prepare plenty of water and trail snacks, and decide in advance where you can turn back or descend if needed.

3. Weather Can Transform the Mountains

At higher elevations, you need to watch for temperature differences from the valleys and sudden weather changes. Depending on the season, there may be snow or ice. The level of preparation differs significantly from everyday lowland hiking.

Three Ways for Beginners to Approach the Kohechi

Approach 1: Get a Feel for Mountain Walking on the Nakahechi or Iseji First

Start with relatively easy sections like Daimonzaka or parts of the Nakahechi, building up experience with walks of a few hours to a full day. Once you understand your own pace, rest intervals, and how your legs tire, there's no rush to try the Kohechi.

Approach 2: Experience Just the Hatenashi Pass Area Near Kumano Hongu

The final stretch of the Kohechi, between Kumano Hongu and Totsukawa Village, is a memorable section of mountain ridges and traditional villages. If you decide to walk just a portion rather than the whole route, even beginners can get a taste of the Kohechi's atmosphere. That said, these are still mountain passes, so always check the latest information on distance, time required, and access, and allow plenty of time in your plan.

Approach 3: Walk with a Guide or Experienced Companion

If you have concerns about losing the trail or judging the weather, joining a guided tour or walking with an experienced hiker is a reassuring choice. Especially on your first mountain-style route, "not making decisions alone" is the shortest path to safety.

Pre-Departure Gear and Checklist

"Not Walking the Whole Thing" Is a Fine Kohechi Journey Too

The Kohechi is a deep mountain trail that stretches from Koyasan to Kumano Hongu. For that very reason, rather than rushing to complete the entire route, choosing an "entry point" that matches your fitness and experience is both the safest strategy and the secret to enjoying it the longest.

Walk one section this time, go a little farther next time. Gradually connecting the trail piece by piece is itself a very Kumano Kodo way to travel. Start with a comfortable first step, and take a peek into the world of the Kohechi.

*Trail conditions and accessibility can change due to weather or natural disasters. Before departure, please check official information from the local municipality or tourism association.

Image: 熊野古道中辺路 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)