This is a private guided tour report by Japan Guide Agency (JGA Inc.), a network of 1,000+ government-licensed, English-speaking local guides across all 47 prefectures of Japan. Not affiliated with the Japan Guide Association.
Tour Itinerary
- 9:00 Meet at hotel Shirahama
- 10:10 Hashigui-iwa Rocks Sightseeing・Rest
- 10:25 Head toward Nachi area
- 11:00 Nachi・Daimonzaka Walk the upper half
- 11:40 Visit Seiganto-ji・Nachi Taisha・To the three-story pagoda
- 12:15 Nachi Great Waterfall
- 12:40 Visit Fudarakusan-ji・Lunch
- 13:15 Head toward Shingu area
- 13:35 Visit Hayatama Taisha
- 13:55 Head toward Hongu area
- 14:40 Visit Hongu Taisha
- 15:15 Visit Oyunohara
- 15:40 Head toward Shirahama area
- 17:03 Arrive at hotel・Disband
Tour Itinerary in Detail
The itinerary covered Hashigui-iwa Rocks Sightseeing・Rest at 10:10, Head toward Nachi area at 10:25, Nachi・Daimonzaka Walk the upper half at 11:00, Seiganto-ji・Nachi Taisha・To the three-story pagoda at 11:40, Nachi Great Waterfall at 12:15, Fudarakusan-ji・Lunch at 12:40, Head toward Shingu area at 13:15, Hayatama Taisha at 13:35, Head toward Hongu area at 13:55, Hongu Taisha at 14:40, Oyunohara at 15:15, Head toward Shirahama area at 15:40 and hotel・Disband at 17:03.
What Is a Private Kumano Kodo and Nachi Falls Day Tour by Car Like? A Licensed Guide's Report
On the way from Shirahama to Nachi, we took a break at the scenic spot Hashigui-iwa rocks. For the Daimon-zaka slope in Nachi, since there is no shade until you reach the cedar-lined avenue, we walked only the latter half, which is very impressive. We then moved by car to Nachi Taisha Shrine, viewed Nachi Falls from a distance, and visited Seiganto-ji Temple and Nachi Taisha Shrine. From in front of the three-storied pagoda, we again moved by car to the base of the falls and viewed the waterfall. As the guests were on consecutive days of travel and it was extremely hot and humid, we used the car as much as possible for uphill sections and sunny stretches. We moved to Fudarakusan-ji Temple, where I explained the Fudaraku sea-crossing pilgrimage and the pilgrimage boats. In particular, I explained how one figure, Nisshu, safely reached Okinawa, including the background of the seasonal winds and ocean currents. We had a light meal and a rest at a nearby convenience store. We moved to Shingu and visited Hayatama Taisha Shrine. To reduce the effort of walking, we started the visit at Hongu Taisha Shrine from the rear side. Through the legends of Emperor Jimmu's eastern expedition and Xu Fu, I explained the relationship between Nachi, Shingu, and Hongu, as well as the Yatagarasu three-legged crow. We descended the stone steps to Oyunohara. We took commemorative photos in front of the great torii gate, and I also explained the floods of the Meiji era and in recent years. The guests frequently took photos at each location. I take this as a sign of their deep interest, and it gives me a sense of reassurance. In particular, they had great expectations for Nachi Falls and the great torii gate at Oyunohara, and it was memorable that as we were leaving Hongu Taisha Shrine, they asked with a hint of anxiety where the torii gate was. There had been a strong evening shower the day before, so we walked carrying umbrellas, but we managed to avoid the rain. Although it was a long drive of about 250 km, we were able to return to the Hotel only three minutes over schedule.
Click here for more details: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage in 1 Day by Car with Licensed Guide
I grew up in the mountain village. I learned many things from my family, especially my grandmother. I can give you many interesting experiences in the wild nature. We eat wild strawberries or “Sukanpo ” the edible grass, fly ferns or cross a suspension bridge.
I walked all of Kumano Kodo, Koyasan pilgrimage roads and other ancient highways, total length is more than 600km ( 400 miles).
I want you to show the interesting spots beyond the guide book. Kii mountain range has old history as well as beautiful land scapes. I’ll take you the excellent places you can do Facebook bragging.
My experiences for guiding foreigners are, town of Koyasan, pilgrimage road to Koyasan, Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, hot springs, Shingu city and Nachi Katsuura town, Kushimoto area, Shirahama area so on.
I wish to meet you soon!
May 12, 2025
andrewgT8079NS
Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Wonderful, interesting…
May 12, 2025
andrewgT8079NS
Wonderful guide and magical scenery and locations.
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Wonderful, interesting and very helpful guide Hira. Our hike along the trail was tailored to our level of experience.
Our guide showed us many beautiful and magical scenic locations around the Kumano Kodo trail.
Apr 29, 2025
farmahel
A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip…
Apr 29, 2025
farmahel
A truly magnificent journey through the Kumano Kodo with a wonderfully kind Hira
Tripadvisor review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Our private tour of the Kumano Kodo sacred sites and pilgrimage routes was an unforgettable experience, largely thanks to our truly kind and attentive guide, Yauso Hiraishi(Hira). This journey perfectly blended cultural immersion with breathtaking natural beauty.
Hira expertly guided us through the ancient trails of the Kumano Kodo, sharing insightful knowledge about the history and spiritual significance of this UNESCO World Heritage site. Visiting Nachi Falls was a definite highlight, its majestic cascade a powerful symbol within the pilgrimage landscape.
The tour also offered stunning diversity in its scenery. We were treated to magnificent views of the Pacific Ocean from the coast, a refreshing contrast to the serene beauty of the mountain trails. The paths themselves were a joy to walk, winding through lush forests and offering a true sense of being on a historic pilgrimage.
Throughout the tour, Hira’s kindness and genuine enthusiasm shone through. He was not only knowledgeable but also incredibly thoughtful, ensuring we were comfortable and engaged every step of the way. His passion for the region and its history was infectious, enriching our understanding and appreciation of the Kumano Kodo.
For anyone seeking a deeply rewarding and beautifully scenic exploration of Japan’s spiritual heartland, a private tour like this with a guide as kind and capable as Hira comes highly recommended. It was a perfect blend of physical activity, cultural learning, and natural wonder, all enhanced by the personal touch of an exceptional guide.
Thank you Hira 😉
Apr 27, 2025
Sofia_N
Had a great time. Guide…
Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Had a great time.…
Apr 27, 2025
Sofia_N
Had a great time. Guide…
Viator review: Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Full-Day Private Trip with Government Licensed Guide
Had a great time. Guide very helpful and great at telling the history about the places we
visited. And showed some local locations.
Mar 23, 2025
G
GoPlaces681850
Wonderful time with a local.
Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Our guide, Hira,…
Mar 23, 2025
G
GoPlaces681850
Wonderful time with a local.
Tripadvisor review: Mt. Koya Sacred 4hr Private Tour with Government Licensed Guide
Our guide, Hira, was a super nice man. We got to see so many beautiful places that we would otherwise have missed on our own. He got to the meeting location early and waited patiently for our arrival. He also arranged to make sure my husband was able to have a gluten-free lunch. He never rushed us along and waited for us to enjoy the site and to take many pictures. Although we had some communication barriers but we managed to understand each other. We loved Koyasan and had a wonderful time. We also really enjoyed meeting a local from the Wakayama prefecture.