CharactersGoodsConbini MondayFood & DrinkPhotosLiving in JapanOutdoors & SportCultureShibuyaTrains & TransportTravelShoppingMarketingTechBuildingsPhoto storiesMy stamp bookArchivesAbout

Kumano Kodo and Kumano Nachi Taisha with Nachi Falls 熊野那智

Checked October 2026 · next check January 2027 · On our list

Open in Maps

Visiting Kumano Kodo and Kumano Nachi Taisha with Nachi Falls today

  • What it is: The Kumano Kodo is a UNESCO-listed network of pilgrimage trails. At its Nachi end, the shrine and Seiganto-ji's pagoda stand above the 133 m Nachi Falls, Japan's tallest single-drop waterfall.
  • Getting there: Kumano Kotsu bus from JR Kii-Katsuura, about 30 minutes, or alight at Daimonzaka and climb the 600 m stone path. For the Nakahechi trail, buses run from Kii-Tanabe to Hongu.
  • Hours: Kumano Nachi Taisha 6:00–16:30. Hiro Shrine (the falls) 7:00–16:30.
  • Admission: Shrine grounds and the Kumano Kodo trails are free. The falls-side viewing platform and the pagoda charge small fees.
  • Tip: For a short taste of the trail, walk the 7 km from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha in a half day. Carry lunch, since there are no restaurants on the way.
Best time
  1. J
  2. F
  3. M
  4. A
  5. M
  6. J
  7. J
  8. A
  9. S
  10. O
  11. N
  12. D
Spring and autumn are best for walking; summer is hot and humid, and typhoons can close trails.

Checked against: Tanabe City Kumano Tourism Bureau: Tsugizakura-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha · Nanki Kumano Geopark: Nachi Waterfall · ANA Japan Travel Planner: Nachi Falls. Check opening times and prices before you go.

Kumano Kodo and Kumano Nachi Taisha with Nachi Falls on Shibuya246

We haven't been yet, so there are no photos here. The notes above come from official sources and are checked every quarter. Our own photos and story will appear here after we visit.