Nachikatsuura
(Daimon-zaka Slope)

Daimon-zaka Slope is approximately 640 meters long and leads to the sacred site of Nachi-san Mountain. It has been a pilgrimage route for over 1,000 years. As you walk, you can soak up the atmosphere of Kumano Kodo, including the ancient cedars, which are over 800 years old.

Hongu,Tanabe
(Oyunohara)

Former site of the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine. In the Middle Ages, pilgrims visiting the three shrines of Kumano, which had become a popular activity even among common people, headed to Oyunohara first. At the entrance, a 34-meter torii gate rises as a symbol of this once magnificent site.

Shingu
(Kumano river boat cruise)

This river boat was used by the Imperial family to travel to the Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine after saying prayers at the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine. You can still take a wooden boat on the 90-minute journey to relive the experience of Heian period pilgrims. Enjoy listening to stories about Kumano as you take in the views from the boat and soak up the history and tales of ancient times.

Shirahama
(Engetsu Island)

Engetsu Island is a famous symbol of Shirahama. The official name is Takashima Island. but it is affectionately called as Engetsu (Full moon) Island because of the circular moon-shaped sea cave at the center of the island. Sunsets are exceptionally beautiful in this area.