Culinary Delights: 2D1N Kumano Kodo Iseji Tour with Local Guide

Tobeya & Tsumura: Beyond being just charcoal, Kishū Binchōtan is celebrated by world-renowned chefs as the highest-quality charcoal on Earth. In the town of Kihoku, you have the rare opportunity to immerse yourself in the living tradition of this "black diamond." At Tsumura, a traditional kiln run by master craftsmen, each piece of charcoal is forged with passion and precision. This premium charcoal then travels to Tobeya, a refined Kappo-style restaurant where it is used to elevate local ingredients into culinary masterpieces. The secret lies in the powerful far-infrared rays emitted by the Binchōtan. This intense heat instantly seals in the "umami," creating a perfectly crisp, aromatic exterior while keeping the inside incredibly succulent and juicy. Experience the harmony of two masters: the charcoal-making artistry of Tsumura and the exquisite culinary skills of Tobeya. Come and savor the true bounty of Kishū—a flavor that can only be found right here.

Road Station Kii-Nagashima Manbo: The menu offers a rich selection of coastal delicacies, including fresh sashimi and premium seafood bowls that showcase the best of this fishing town, alongside classic ramen and udon. The true highlight, found only at "Road Station Kii-Nagashima Manbo," is the Deep-fried Sunfish Set. This rare gourmet specialty reflects the unique culinary heritage of Kihoku Town. Featuring a firm yet succulent texture similar to lean chicken breast, the sunfish is served with a perfectly crisp golden batter. It is a light, healthy, and sophisticated dish that offers a taste of Japan found nowhere else.

A popular mountain pass on the border of Kihoku town and Owase City, the stone pavement, said to be the best in the Kumano Kodo Iseji, continues through the Owase cypress forest. Many historical sites, such as Yonaki Jizo, which is believed to have mystical power to prevent children from crying at night, giving it the atmosphere of a Kumano Kodo.

Onigajo is a large rock wall created by earthquake uplift, weathering and wave erosion. In addition to being designated as a national scenic beauty and natural monument, it is also registered as a World Heritage site as part of the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range.

Mihama Town is renowned as the "land of year-round citrus," where diverse varieties are harvested throughout every season. At Road Station Park Shichiri-Mihama, you can enjoy a premium tasting flight of three different mandarin juices, each offering a unique profile of sweetness and acidity. If you find a favorite, bottles are available for purchase, along with a curated selection of citrus-inspired souvenirs to commemorate your journey.

The Kumano River is registered as a World Heritage site as a river pilgrimage route. Water transportation of daily commodities was also active, and river boats such as “Sandanbo” developed during the Edo period. This is a leisurely tour along the Kumano River on a “Sandanbo,” a replica of the boats used in those days.