Experience Walking & Trekking in Japan
Japan is home to many historic trails, including the Kumano Kodo and Nakasendo.
These routes offer a unique journey through stunning nature and rich cultural heritage.
Whether trekking or walking, immerse yourself in Japan’s deep history and traditions for an unforgettable experience.
Embark on a safe and exhilarating walking & trekking adventure with Heartland Japan!
2025 Heartland Japan Kumano Kodo Iseji Tour Lineup
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What sets us apart
A Unique Local Connection
Go beyond sightseeing and connect with the people of Ise through immersive cultural activities.
Ise Ondo Experience
Dance with locals and feel the spirit of this 17th-century tradition.
Snack Bar Experience
Enjoy lively conversations in a cozy local bar, just like a regular.
Discover the real Japan through meaningful local interactions.
What is the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage?
The Kumano Sanzan, located deep in the south of the Kii Peninsula, has long been revered as a sacred place where Shinto and Buddhist deities reside and where the spirits of the dead gather to be reborn. Kumano Sanzan is the collective name for the three most important shrines in the area: Kumano Hongu Taisha, Kumano Hayatama Taisha, and Kumano Nachi Taisha. It was believed that by making a pilgrimage to Kumano, overcoming the trials of the journey, and offering prayers at the shrines and to the natural beauty all around, one could ensure happiness in their next life, as well as experience a kind of living rebirth among the vibrant nature, itself in a constant cycle of life and death. This is the Kumano Pilgrimage.
Why Iseji?
“Kumano Kodo Iseji – The Next Pilgrimage Awaits on the Path of Edo-Era Travelers“
When people think of the Kumano Kodo, the Nakahechi route often comes to mind. However, during the Edo period, the most traveled route was the Iseji Route—a sacred path connecting Ise Jingu to the Kumano Sanzan, where faith and culture intertwined.
For those who have already walked Nakahechi, the Iseji Route offers a new and unique journey. With breathtaking coastal scenery, tranquil cedar forests, and historic post towns once visited by Edo-era pilgrims, this route reveals a different side of Kumano’s spiritual heritage.
At the same time, Iseji is also the perfect introduction for first-time trekkers. Featuring gentler paths and stunning landscapes, it provides an immersive experience of Japan’s timeless beauty.
Follow in the footsteps of history and discover the Iseji Route. Are you ready to take your next pilgrimage?
Location of the Kumano Kodo Iseji
Find Our More Kumano Kodo Iseji
These videos will give you an idea of the background of the trails and how wonderful they are.
Comments from the people who have experienced this pilgrimage route,
experts in individual fields, and fans of the Kumano Kodo Iseji.
This trip had amazing experiences that I will never forget. The trails were easy to walk, and it was easy to prepare for each day we had a clear picture of the distances to cover. We had the chance to exchange words with many locals on our way (shop owners, joggers, hikers, and even school kids having their physical education class!). What I appreciated the most of the preparation of this tour was the shipping service of the luggage. Would my family or friends visit Japan, I would gladly do this tour again with them. One highlight for me was the cleansing of the soul we performed in a river on the way to Nachi. The feeling and the views at Nachi falls and Daimonzaka were just amazing. The horagai conch-shell performance was a lovely surprise too. Nachi was so beautiful, I loved it so much, that I wished I had one full day to spend there!
Sacred places, entertainment and beautiful and important history of the pilgrimage in some places. The best of the days pass the pass, the encounter with the river and birds in the shrine and the home stay was lovely. The sea views are spectacular, small guests house and community development through tourism. The authentic story from the mandala mixed with the beauty of landscaping create an special last days atmosphere. This is good for people interested in nature based tourism, cultural heritage tourism, slow tourism, sustainable and community based tourism, even mountain tourism and religion based. Can be also young couple inbound tourists with work, group of friends and solo trip, joining with other in a scheduled tour. Thanks for everything, don’t forget that this type of travel experience can also be connected with friendship development if you invite people yo join same tour from different countries.
Watching the Kagura at Ise Jingu was very good. And watching and being able to take part in the Ise Ondo dance was a very good experience.t was also nice to be able to make our own Goshuin stamp books. Midori-sans performance and lecture about the mandala was particularly excellent and a wonderful way to start off the tour. Asakichi Ryokan was a very interesting historical hotel. Our room was also very nice.
The tea ceremony at Kinoshita-san’s house was was an excellent and very enjoyable.
It was very good to have a local guide providing explanations along the way as it made the walk more meaningful. His costume was good too.