History Learning: 2D1N Kumano Kodo Iseji Tour with Local Guide

This is the most saced shrine in Japan and filled with the charms of history, nature and architecture. Billions of people have been praying for their peace from the ancient times. Ise Grand Shrine includes 125 shrines around Mie, and in particular, Naiku and Geku, which is dedicated to Amaterasu-Omikami (the deity of Imperial family) and Toyo'uke-no-Omikami (a provider of sacred food of Amaterasu-Omikami) respectively, are the two main huge shrines.

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.

This beautiful building, crafted from local cypress, is the essential orientation hub for the Iseji Route.Through engaging exhibits and high-definition visuals, you will learn about the history, culture, and challenging mountain passes of this World Heritage site. It’s the perfect place to check trail conditions and deepen your spiritual connection to the "Path to Ise" before you begin your journey.

Beautiful cobblestone pavement remains on most of the roads, and at the pass surrounded by bamboo groves, you will be greeted by a life-size Jizo statue.

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.

This shrine is located near the mouth of the Kumano River and is dedicated to the deity Hayatama. The shrine grounds include “Gongenyama” in the background, “Mifunejima” and “Otabisho” on the Kumano River, and the “Nagi Tree,” a natural monument, which is considered a sacred tree, is located within the shrine grounds.