{"id":6272,"date":"2025-05-14T17:08:02","date_gmt":"2025-05-14T08:08:02","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/siteunist.cusc.vn\/unist-senretreat\/\/?post_type=journal&p=6272"},"modified":"2025-06-17T17:49:03","modified_gmt":"2025-06-17T08:49:03","slug":"54","status":"publish","type":"journal","link":"https:\/\/siteunist.cusc.vn\/unist-senretreat\/en\/journal\/54\/","title":{"rendered":"[FAQ-1] Complete Guide to Maps and Routes of the Kumano Kodo\uff5cFAQs for beginners to ease concerns!"},"content":{"rendered":"\n
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I want to walk the Kumano Kodo, but which route should I choose?\u2019 Where can I get an official map?\u2019 Many people may have questions such as \u2018Where can I get an official map?
In this article, we, the operators of SEN.RETREAT, an accommodation facility on the Kumano Kodo, introduce the questions we are often asked in an easy-to-understand FAQ format.
From how to choose a map that even beginners can walk with peace of mind, to the distances for each route and information on free PDF maps, reading this will make your trip along the Kumano Kodo much more accessible!<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Frequently asked questions about maps of the Kumano Kodo<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Q1: Where can I get an official Kumano Kodo route map?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Source: Tanabe City Tourist Centre.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div><\/div>\n\n\n\n

Official route maps of the Kumano Kodo are available free of charge at tourist information centres such as the Tanabe City Tourist Centre and the Kumano Hongu Tourist Association. While it is safer to get a paper map locally, saving the data on your smartphone in advance can be useful in case of emergency.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

▶\u3000TANABE Tourist Information Center<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

▶\u3000Kumano Hongu Tourist Association<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q2: Is there a free PDF map of the Kumano Kodo?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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Source: Seichi Resort Wakayama <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Free PDF maps can be downloaded from the official Wakayama Prefecture tourism website. It is divided into sections for each of the main routes, such as Nakaheji, Oheji, Kobeji and Iseji, with detailed information on distance, elevation and even the location of rest areas and toilets.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

▶Seichi Resort Wakayama<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q3: What routes are there on the Kumano Kodo?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
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There are six main routes on the Kumano Kodo<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Nakahechi<\/strong>: The most popular route from Tanabe to Hongu Taisha, recommended for beginners.
Kohechi<\/strong>: mountain route connecting Koyasan to Hongu Taisha. This is a highly difficult route.
Ohechi<\/strong>: A route along the coast, popular with those who value not only the temples and shrines, but also the scenery that only a seaside route can offer.
Ise-ji<\/strong>: The Tokai route leads from Ise Jingu Shrine to Kumano Sanzan. Recommended for history buffs.
Kii-ji<\/strong>: An ancient road from the Kyoto\/Osaka area through Wakayama Prefecture. Good access from urban areas.
Omine Okugakemichi<\/strong>: This is a mountain traverse route from Yoshinoyama to Kumano, used by ascetic practitioners since the Heian period.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Each route differs in terms of scenery, difficulty and accessibility, so it is important to choose the route that best suits the purpose of your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q4. How long is each of the Kumano Kodo routes?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n
Route name<\/th>Approximate distance<\/th><\/tr><\/thead>
Nakahechi<\/strong><\/td>Takijiri Oji – Hongu Taisha. 38 km (main section)<\/td><\/tr>
Kohechi<\/strong><\/td>Koyasan – Hongu Taisha shrine. 70 km<\/td><\/tr>
Ohechi<\/strong><\/td>Tanabe – Nachi-Katsuura. 92 km<\/td><\/tr>
Ise-ji<\/strong><\/td>Ise Jingu – Kumano Hongu. 170 km<\/td><\/tr>
Kii-ji<\/strong><\/td>Osaka – Tanabe. 120 km<\/td><\/tr>
Omine Okugakemichi<\/strong><\/td>Yoshinoyama – Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. 170 km<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n

Some routes can take several days to complete, so many walkers divide their walk into sections.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q5. What is the best map for the Kumano Kodo Nakaheji route?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Free PDF maps can be downloaded from the Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau website. It is divided into sections for each of the main routes, with detailed information on distance, altitude and even the location of rest stops and toilets. An English version is also available for overseas visitors.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

▶ Area-specific map download sites<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Q6: Can I walk the Kumano Kodo without a guide and using a map?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n

Yes, the walk can be done without a guide as the maps and route markings are well maintained. The Nakaheji route in particular has many signposts and information boards, and is designed to be easy for beginners to understand. However, as mobile phone reception is poor in some mountainous areas, be sure to bring a paper map and a mobile battery. It is also important to plan reasonably well, as changes to the route may be necessary due to weather or physical conditions.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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What if you are unsure about choosing a route on the Kumano Kodo?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

For beginners, the \u2018Nakaheji\u2019 route is particularly recommended, and SEN.RETREAT has accommodation along the Nakaheji route. Please use SEN.RETREAT as a base for your journey.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Click here for the official website.<\/strong><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n

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Summary\uff5cTo enjoy the Kumano Kodo safely<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Get an official map before setting off<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Use paper maps + smartphone GPS apps<\/p>\n\n\n\n

For first-timers, we recommend starting from Nakaheji.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Go on a journey that will refresh your body and mind while experiencing the nature and history of the Kumano Kodo!<\/p>\n\n\n\n