You're not buying a package. Build your own journey.
The journey, at a glance
A 7-day self-guided route through the sacred shrines and mountains of the Kumano region in Japan. The traditional Imperial Way covers 75 km through cedar forests, rural villages, three grand shrines and the highest waterfall in Japan.
Map, and itinerary
DAY 1
Overnight in the town centre
DAY 2
Main entry point, steep climb through cedar forests and ancient shrines, views over Hatenashi valley
DAY 3
Mountain forests, rural villages, moderate climbs, panoramic views
Read the full itinerary
DAY 4
The longest and most demanding stage; rivers, forests, tea fields; arrival at the first great shrine
DAY 5
Dense woods, rivers and streams, an isolated village surrounded by nature
DAY 6
Final stage through forest; second great shrine, Nachi waterfall, Seiganto-ji temple
DAY 7
Already included, you shape everything else
The base journey is complete as it stands. Every experience is personal: you can adjust stages, add services or extra days before you set off. All of this happens in your consultation call.
Already included
- Dedicated 30-minute consultation
- Full trip organisation
- Bed and breakfast stays
- 24/7 phone support
- Sports medical insurance
- Pilgrim credential
- GPS tracks
- Full documentation
- Gift box shipped to your home
- Dedicated personal adviser
Customise
- Flights
- Backpack transfer
- Private transfers
- Cancellation insurance
- Private guide
- Dinners
- Trip extension
Every addition is discussed in your consultation. No hidden costs.
Three ways to walk the route
Wayure doesn't offer tiers of value. Same route, same method, three different hospitality contexts.
Relaxed · Protected · Fluid
Walking with a lighter mind
More comfort, more attention to rest. A journey designed to ease the mind.
Fewer worries. More care.
from · flights excluded
Understated · Functional · Pragmatic
The essentials, in private
Your own space, without excess. Privacy without seeking superior comfort.
Less form. More function.
from · flights excluded
It's not a price scale. It's not a value scale. It's a scale of attitude and context.
Let yourself be inspired, photos from the route
What they say, those who've walked with us
518 reviews verified
Questions, the most common ones
Why are there no fixed departure dates?
Because this journey is built around you, you choose the date that suits your schedule. It's not a package or a group trip, so you're free to leave whenever you like.
Is it safe to go alone?
All our routes are personally tested for safety and signage, and can comfortably be walked without a guide or companion.
What does Solo & Friends mean?
Solo & Friends journeys are unique experiences that let you explore the world on foot, in full independence and on your own terms. Every journey is tailored to you, with no groups or guides.
Can I book my own flight?
Absolutely, you can book your flight independently. If you book through us, it'll be included in the travel contract and covered if you take out cancellation insurance.
How does cancellation insurance work?
With cancellation insurance in place, you can cancel your journey up to the morning of departure for certified reasons.
What if I have a problem during the journey?
For any issue during your trip, you can reach our support team, available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Why aren't dinners included?
Our philosophy is that you discover the culture of a place through its food and wine. We don't include dinners to avoid fixed menus of poor quality. We've hand-picked hotels and guesthouses steps away from the best local restaurants.
What's the difference between Essence, Minimal and Serenity?
They are three hospitality styles, not three levels of journey quality. Essence means shared accommodation in a hostel. Minimal means a private room in simple, functional properties. Serenity means top-choice properties with greater comfort. Wayure's organisation, the route and the support are identical across all three lines.
Is Essence a budget option?
Essence isn't a low-cost line. It's the choice for those who prefer shared hospitality and want to experience the walk in its most direct form. The price is lower because the accommodation is simpler, not because the service is lesser.
Does the organisation change between lines?
No. All lines include: tailored route planning, logistics, support before, during and after the journey, and all standard Wayure services. Only the hospitality level changes.
Kumano Kodo Nakahechi. Japan's UNESCO World Heritage Trail
The most popular and traditional Kumano Kodo route, often called the imperial trail, through sacred shrines and mountains of Japan.
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