Daimon-zaka on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi

September on the Kumano Kodo: Walking Through "Summer's Lingering Days"

Even after September begins, the mountains of Kumano still carry a strong trace of summer air. At the same time, typhoons and the autumn rain front make the weather hard to read during this period. It's tempting to think, "It's still hot, so short sleeves will do," but when it comes to clothing for the Kumano Kodo in September, thinking about sweat, insects, and sudden rain together — not just the heat — will help you avoid trouble.

Since the severity of late-summer heat varies year to year, rather than citing specific temperatures, we'll organize this guide around "what tends to happen while you're walking."

The Basics: "Thin, Quick-Drying Long Sleeves"

Start with a Quick-Drying Top as Your Base Layer

While the cedar groves offer plenty of shade, wind doesn't pass through easily, and humidity builds up. You'll sweat more than expected on the climbs, so quick-drying synthetic or merino shirts work better than cotton T-shirts. If sweat hasn't dried by the time you stop to rest, you may feel a chill the moment you stop moving.

Short Sleeves or Long Sleeves? Decide Based on "Can You Protect Your Skin?"

Short sleeves are cool, but your arms are left exposed in sections where grass encroaches on the trail or branches brush against you. Thin, breathable long sleeves cover sunlight, scrapes, and insects all at once. If it gets hot, you can simply roll up the sleeves, so when in doubt, long sleeves offer more flexibility.

Bottoms and Footwear

Shorts are cool, but you'll worry about insect bites and scratches from the grass. If you do wear them, pairing them with long gaiters or leg covers brings peace of mind.

Protection Against Insects and Overgrown Grass Starts with Clothing

In September, mountain vegetation is still growing vigorously. Mosquitoes, biting midges, and other insects can be bothersome, so before relying on insect repellent, the basic approach is to reduce exposed skin. A towel or thin neck cover around your neck handles both sun and insects. Avoiding sitting down in grassy areas during breaks — and choosing where to sit — is also part of the wisdom of walking old roads.

The "One Layer" for Autumn Rain and Typhoon Season

Mountain weather changes quickly, and September has a higher chance of sudden rain. Packing a separate top-and-bottom rain suit in your bag makes it easier to move and helps manage internal humidity. An umbrella ties up one hand, which can be awkward on stone steps and downhill sections.

For more on choosing rain gear, please refer to our existing article on rainy-day clothing. In September, "it might rain" and "it's hot and humid" often happen at the same time, so choosing a thin layer that doesn't trap heat even when worn makes for a more comfortable walk.

Insurance for Morning, Evening, and Before Sunset

Sundown comes earlier in September than in midsummer. Mountain valleys grow dark faster than towns, and once the sun starts to dip, you may suddenly feel the cool air. Tossing in a thin windshell or light long-sleeved layer gives peace of mind during breaks or while waiting for the bus after descending. A change of T-shirt is also nice to have, so you can swap out a sweat-soaked top for comfort.

September Clothing Checklist

Prepare a little for heat, rain, and insects — all three. That's the key to dressing for a pleasant September walk on the Kumano Kodo. Before heading out, be sure to check the weather forecast and typhoon updates.

Image: 熊野古道中辺路　大門坂 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)