Kumano Kodo tourism initiatives launched in Wakayama

Efforts to enhance tourism and accessibility around the Kumano Kodo World Heritage site in Wakayama Prefecture are underway through new transport initiatives and guided walking events.

Tanabe City will launch a pilot program on September 19, 2026, featuring three types of specialized tourist transportation to improve access to key sites. These include the ‘Kumano Kodo Rapid Bus’ connecting Kii-Tanabe Station to Hosshinmon-oji, the ‘Onsen-go’ bus linking Yunomine Onsen to Hosshinmon-oji, and a ‘River Boat Shuttle Taxi’ service operating between Kawayu Onsen and the Kumano River Boat Center. These services aim to address transportation gaps in the region.

Additionally, the Kainan-Kaiso Regional Tourism Council has announced a ‘Kumano Kodo Walk’ scheduled for November 21, 2026. This guided 6.9km trek will take participants through the Shimotsu area, featuring views of the ‘Arida/Shimotsu Area Stone-Walled Terraced Mandarin Orange System’, a Globally Important Agricultural Heritage System. The event includes historical commentary from local guides.