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Can You Walk from Kumano Nachi Taisha to Nachi Falls?
The short answer is yes—you can walk from Kumano Nachi Taisha down to Nachi Falls. The path from the shrine, located halfway up Mt. Nachi, to Hirou Shrine where the falls stand, is basically a downhill route with stone steps. One of the charms of Mt. Nachi is that you can continue your pilgrimage on foot without needing to catch a bus.
Rather than giving step-by-step directions, this article focuses on three things that will help you feel "I'm on the right track" while you walk: landmarks, sounds, and your return plan.
Before You Set Off: Switch Gears Within the Shrine Grounds
Next to Kumano Nachi Taisha stands Seiganto-ji Temple, where you can sense the lingering fusion of Shinto and Buddhism. Before heading toward the falls, take care of these two things for peace of mind:
- Finish anything you want to do on the grounds first, such as paying your respects or collecting a goshuin (shrine seal)
- Organize your drinks and belongings so that both hands are free
The stone steps can be slippery when wet, so set off in a calm, unhurried state.
Walking Clue ①: What You See — The Three-Storied Pagoda and the Falls
From around Seiganto-ji there's a famous viewpoint where you can see Nachi Falls beyond the vermilion three-storied pagoda. If it's your first visit, this is a great spot to pause and confirm, "That white streak is my destination."
Having your destination within sight greatly reduces the nagging worry of "Am I really going the right way?" as you make your way down.
Walking Clue ②: What You Hear — The Sound of Water Growing Louder
As you descend the path, you'll pass through sections dotted with souvenir shops and resting spots. Then, as you enter a grove of cedar trees, you'll gradually begin to hear the sound of the waterfall.
If the sound is growing louder, it's proof you're getting closer. Rather than repeatedly checking your phone's map, this is a path where you'll walk more pleasantly simply by listening.
Don't Let Your Guard Down on the Descent
Downhill feels easier, but it puts strain on your knees and toes.
- Step down one at a time, landing with your whole foot
- Where handrails or walking sticks are available, don't hesitate to use them
- Stop walking when you take photos
Just keeping these three points in mind will make a real difference in how tired you feel when you arrive at the falls.
Walking Clue ③: How You Return — Decide Your Climb Back in Advance
When walking from the shrine to the falls, the most important thing is planning your return route. If the way down was downhill, the way back will be uphill. Rather than wondering "How should I get back?" once you arrive at the falls, deciding beforehand gives you peace of mind.
- Walk back up: For those who want to savor the scenery slowly, taking breaks along the way
- Return by bus or other transport: For those who want to save energy or are short on time
- Head to another spot after the falls: Skip returning to the shrine and continue to your next destination
Schedules and service may change by season or day of the week, so please check the latest information at local signage or official sources.
A Local's Note
Mt. Nachi is a place where it's a bit of a waste to rush through just to see the falls. The downhill route linking the shrine, Seiganto-ji, the three-storied pagoda, and finally the falls leaves a lasting impression when walked as one continuous pilgrimage path.
Wear comfortable walking shoes, and give yourself plenty of time. That moment when the sound of water begins to draw near is a reward only those who come on foot can enjoy.
Image: 熊野那智大社 那智の扇祭り (via (公社)和歌山県観光連盟)
