Koyasan and Kumano Kodo - how to fit it in

Hello, we are planning a six day walk along the Nakahechi Trail of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage from Tanabe to Shingu in March and would like to spend a night in Koyasan before we start. We will be coming from Kyoto and need to be in Kii-Tanabe the following day and want to check if it's feasible to go to Koyasan on the way (travelling from Kyoto to Osaka to Koyasan on day 1, and from Koyasan to Kii-Tanabe on day 2). It seems there are no direct buses in March so we will need to take trains - but is this feasible? Any advice gratefully received!

It is possible. It takes about four hours to get from Koyasan to Kii-Tanabe using public transportation (cable car and train).

First, take the cable car down to Gokurakubashi. From there, there are two routes (the journey times are roughly the same): take the Nankai Limited Express to Shin-Imamiya, then transfer to a JR Rapid then Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe, or take the Nankai Limited Express from Gokurakubashi to Hashimoto, then transfer to the JR Wakayama Line to Wakayama, then transfer to a JR Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe.

Koyasan and Kii-Tanabe are located on the Kii Peninsula, which is almost entirely mountainous. Rivers flow between the mountains, and settlements are located on the coast or along the rivers between them. The crow flies from Koyasan to Kii-Tanabe, about 58 kilometers (actually it may be difficult because of the mountains), but the fastest car route involves going around Wakayama City and mainly using the expressway, which Google Maps shows as 123 kilometers, a distance of 2 hours and 4 minutes. This is almost the same route as the JR Wakayama Line with a transfer at Wakayama Station mentioned above. The Wakayama Line runs along the Kinokawa River, the largest river in the area. From Wakayama to Kii-Tanabe, both the railroad and road basically run along the coast. To run in a straight line, tunnels or bridges would be necessary (though I think these are used in some areas) but the rail twists and turns along the coast line. The expressway was built after the railroad, so it runs in a relatively straight line (I think there are many tunnels and bridges). From what I've researched, there are no express buses from Wakayama to Kii-Tanabe. Perhaps they can't compete with JR (express buses do compete where they can, for example from Oita to Hakata).

I can't comment on exact details, but I can confirm that both driving and public transport is slow and time consuming so make sure there is plenty of time between transfers. Trains/buses also often occur infrequently so keep that in mind.

I've only walked short parts of the Komono Kodo - but it is important to be fit and have everything that is needed for real hiking and all that entails. It's also helpful to know that it rains A LOT around this part of Japan.

There is a bus from Gojo Station to Shingu (Nara Kotsu Bus). It is famous for being the longest local bus route in Japan.

However, please keep in mind a few things:

Getting to Gojo: To get to Gojo Station from Koyasan, you first need to take the Cable Car down the mountain, then a train to Hashimoto, and transfer to the JR line to Gojo. It takes about 1.5 to 2 hours just to reach the bus station.

Bus Duration: The bus ride from Gojo to Shingu takes about 6 hours. It is a very scenic and unique "adventure," but it is a long journey!

Hello! I live in Osaka. I'd love to help you plan your trip.

Day 1: Kyoto to Koyasan: Take the Nankai Koya Line to Gokurakubashi Station, then transfer to the cable car to Koyasan. I highly recommend the "Tenku" sightseeing train for the train ride to Gokurakubashi. It's an amazing experience. However, it's a popular train, so it's best to make a reservation in advance.

Tenku Information: https://www.nankai.co.jp/koya/tenku/

Day 2: Koyasan to Kii-Tanabe: As you mentioned, the direct "Sacred Site Pilgrimage Bus" (Ryujin Bus) will only start operating in April, so it won't be available in March.

Ryujin Bus (Reference): https://www.ryujinbus.com/article/4816/

Railway Options:

Via Shin-Imamiya: From Koyasan, return to Shin-Imamiya Station (Osaka) on the Nankai Line, then take the JR Kuroshio Limited Express to Kii-Tanabe.

Via Hashimoto/Wakayama: From Hashimoto, you can take the JR Wakayama Line to Wakayama. However, this is a local line with very limited service, so returning via Shin-Imamiya is more reliable and may be faster.

Local Information for the Nakahechi Route:

Food: We recommend buying "mehari sushi" at the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Roadside Station. A local specialty, "mehari sushi" (rice balls wrapped in mustard leaves) is perfect for lunch or a snack while hiking. Also, don't miss the "modemochi" (rice cakes) at Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine, a famous local treat.

Scenery: If you're lucky, you might even be able to see cherry blossoms if you're traveling in late March!

Lodging Recommendation: We highly recommend staying at Kawayu Onsen. This unique spot features hot springs directly from the riverbed. Free bathing in the river (swimsuit required) is available, and there are also indoor facilities available for a fee.

For more information about Kawayu Onsen, please see: https://setsuyakukaman.com/kawayuonnsenkawaasobi/

Enjoy a wonderful trip along the Kumano Kodo!