Getting to Kumano Nachi Taisha: What Matters Is What You Do After You Arrive — Navigating the Stone Steps, Seiganto-ji, and the Three-Storied Pagoda

Access to Kumano Nachi Taisha: It's Less About Getting There, More About What Comes Next

Search for "Kumano Nachi Taisha access" and you'll find plenty of information about trains, buses, and driving routes. But what actually makes you think "I wish I'd known this" once you're walking it yourself is how to move around after you arrive at Mt. Nachi.

Kumano Nachi Taisha sits halfway up Mt. Nachi. Even if you take a bus or car close to the shrine, from that point on you proceed up the approach on your own two feet. This article skips the journey from the station and focuses instead on how to walk the precincts after you arrive.

Once You Arrive, Brace Yourself for the Climb

The bus stops and parking lots on Mt. Nachi are not right in front of the main shrine buildings. From there, you follow the approach path and climb a flight of stone steps to reach the precincts. The steps are long and the stone paving is uneven, so if you're picturing a flat, easy-to-reach shrine, it may come as a bit of a surprise.

Set Your Pace on the First Flight of Steps

• Start slowly so you don't lose your breath right away
• Pause now and then and look back — the views between the trees are lovely
• Use the handrails or side paths wherever they're available; there's no need to push yourself

If you're with others, the trick is to match the pace of the slowest person in the group, not the fastest. Not rushing here leaves you with enough energy to explore after your visit.

The Shrine and Seiganto-ji Stand Side by Side

Right next to Kumano Nachi Taisha stands Seiganto-ji, famous as the first temple on the Saigoku Thirty-Three Kannon Pilgrimage. It's a remnant of a time when Shinto deities and Buddhas were worshipped as one, and seeing a shrine and a temple built right next to each other is a scene unique to Mt. Nachi.

There's generally no fixed rule about which to visit first. If you're unsure, these suggestions can make it easier to decide.

Choose Based on the Flow You Want

• Shrine first: For those who want to pay respects at Nachi Taisha — the original purpose of their visit — before anything else
• Seiganto-ji first: For those who'd like to enjoy the view of the three-storied pagoda and the waterfall first, then approach the shrine with a settled mind

Since both are just a short walk apart, there's no need to agonize over the order.

Save the Three-Storied Pagoda and Nachi Waterfall for the Finale

The view of Nachi Waterfall framed beyond Seiganto-ji's three-storied pagoda is one of the most iconic scenes on Mt. Nachi. Heading there after you've finished your shrine visit lets the view ease the fatigue of the climb.

If you want to approach the waterfall itself, there's an additional descending path to walk. Keep in mind that this also means a climb back up on the way out. Whether to go all the way to the waterfall is best decided based on how much energy and time you have left.

Keep the Return Bus in Mind

Up in the mountains, return buses don't run as frequently as in the city. As soon as you arrive, it's a good idea to check the return bus schedule on your phone — that way you can enjoy your visit and stroll with peace of mind.

• Work backwards, factoring in time for a rest or a meal after your visit
• Head to the bus stop a little early, with time to spare
• Check the official information for the latest schedules and service updates before you set out

Small Preparations for Your Feet and Your Bag

Because there are so many stone steps and stone-paved paths, well-worn, comfortable walking shoes are the way to go. Stones get slippery after rain, so be especially careful on the way down. In summer, bring water; in winter, a layer to throw on will keep you comfortable.

Summary

Access to Kumano Nachi Taisha doesn't end when you arrive at Mt. Nachi by bus or car — the final climb up the stone steps of the approach is part of the journey too.

1. Take the stone steps slowly from the start
2. The shrine and Seiganto-ji are right next to each other, so choose the order based on how you feel
3. Save the pagoda and waterfall view for the finale
4. Check the return bus schedule first

Keep these four points in mind and even a first visit to Mt. Nachi can be a calm, unhurried experience.

Image: 那智山青岸渡寺　三重塔 (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)