KUMANO TRAVEL

Ryochi Takai was born and raised in Koyasan. His love for the surrounding natural beauty in the mountains led to many years of hiking the surrounding trails. His grandfather, father and brother are both priests in Koyasan, providing him with a unique insight into the spiritual practices on the mountain as well. He spent over 3 years in England, polishing his English skills and expanding his global knowledge. With a desire to return home and help introduce more people to the land he loved since childhood, 2012, he founded Koyasan Guesthouse Kokuu, the first such lodging in Koyasan. He balances a long-time passion for music with the quiet peace of the surrounding forests and enjoys giving more people the opportunity to enjoy these mountains and the deep history and sacred treasures within them. He leads various excursions in the area and his local knowledge helps many tourists come to a deeper appreciation of the heritage hidden throughout the region.

Wakayama Local Guide Association is a local group founded in 2006 with the goal to introduce both Japanese and Non-Japanese alike to the Kumano region.  Wakayama Local Guide Association has registered licensed English speaking guides well versed in the history and culture of the area.  Using a local guide makes a visit to the area richer and more fulfilling.  It is also a great way to travel responsibly by supporting the local community.  Be open to the feeling of Kumano, through the eyes of local with a passion for their home!  Please contact us for more information about arranging guide services.

Kumano TREK is a friendly group of local guides dedicated to the region and introducing the UNESCO World Heritage Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route to international visitors.  They enjoy walking and sharing stories with guests. 
The members say, "Please enjoy your visit to the Kumano Kodo with us!"

Nachi-Katsuura Town is located in the southeastern part of the Kii Peninsula in Wakayama Prefecture and has a population of less than 15,000.

The town has seven UNESCO World Heritage sites including Nachi Falls and part of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, the largest amount of caught tuna in Japan, a unique onsen hot spring area boasting the largest number of hot springs in the prefecture, a beautiful sea, a calm rural landscape, and warm climate. It is like a small treasure chest filled with interesting people and other attractions.

Local package tours are a great way to experience the area. 

We do all of the planning, so you can do all of the enjoying!

Looking for a bit more freedome, please visit the model course page to customize your own visit.

If you are a travel agent, please contact us for more information.

CrossRhodes Kumano Journeys’ native-English-speaking, licensed guide will introduce travelers to people, experiences and sacred sites of this World Heritage-designated, ancient, spiritual heart of Japan known as the “Kumano Kodo”.

With 25 years living, working and exploring the rural countryside, guide and English guide-trainer Mike Rhodes will share the lore and natural beauty of his adopted home.

Experience the culture, walk the millennial pilgrimage, explore ghosts and ruins, taste the warm heart and fresh air of Kumano.