Hike the Kumano Kodo in Classical Japanese Style

Don Heian-period costumes and walk a pilgrim trail with over 1,000 years of history

While the Kumano Kodo has made waves in recent years as the “it” trail to tackle in Japan, the winding wooded paths through southern Wakayama Prefecture—comprising part of Yoshino-Kumano National Park—have long attracted religious pilgrims and walkers. Over 1,000 years ago, travelers in the Heian period (794 to 1180) visited sacred sites like Nachi Taisha and felt the awesome nature of Kumano.

Now you can enter the world of a pilgrim following the trail in ancient times through the costume experience provided at Daimon-zaka Slope in the World Heritage Area. Dress up in beautiful Heian-period (794-1180) silk robes and pants, with a gauzy flowing veil as part of the head covering. The outfit is completely unique, distinct from the kimono that most visitors associate with traditional Japanese dress. Walk the cobbled steps of the old pathway in your new outfit and you’ll feel as if you’re treading in the footsteps of history.

Costumes can be rented for both adults and children.

Access: From Shin-Osaka Station, take the Kuroshiro limited express train to Kii-Katsuura Station (about four hours), then take the Kumano Gobo Nankai Bus to the Kumano Kodo stop (about 20 minutes).

Heian-Period Clothing Experience (Nachi-Katsuura Town Tourism Association)