Kumano Kodo Nakahechi・Kizekkyo Gorge・Mt. Takao Tourist Information

Sightseeing information for the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi, Kizekkyo Gorge, and Mt. Takao area. The “Kumano Kodo” is an ancient pilgrimage route that extends to the southern part of the Kii Peninsula toward the three Grand Shrines of Kumano (Kumano Hongu Grand Shrine, Kumano Hayatama Grand Shrine, and Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine). Among these, “Nakahechi”, which connects Tanabe City in Wakayama Prefecture to the three Grand Shrines of Kumano, is a historical route that is said to have been walked by retired emperors and the aristocracy since the Haian period. The charms of the mysterious forests, historical temples, and such have been adored by many Japanese and foreigners alike. It was listed as a World Cultural Heritage site as the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” in 2004.