One of the biggest decisions when planning to walk the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route is choosing where to stay.
The Nakahechi Route from Takijiri-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha is approximately 38 km (24 miles) long. If you plan to complete the walk in two days, the two most recommended places to stay are Chikatsuyu and Nonaka (around Tsugizakura-oji).
Chikatsuyu is about 13 km (8 miles) from Takijiri-oji, while Nonaka is about 17 km (11 miles) away. If you would like to cover as much distance as possible on your first day, Nonaka is the better choice.
If this is your first time walking the Kumano Kodo, we recommend staying in Chikatsuyu.
One of the main reasons is its convenience.
The Nonaka area is known for its peaceful surroundings and beautiful natural scenery. However, there are only a limited number of accommodations, and there are very few supermarkets or restaurants nearby.
In contrast, Chikatsuyu has several accommodation options, as well as a small supermarket, cafés, and restaurants. It is easy to buy food, drinks, and other essentials, making it a convenient place to stop during your journey.
Another advantage of staying in Chikatsuyu is its flexibility. When walking the Nakahechi Route, you may want to adjust your plans depending on the weather or how you are feeling that day. In such cases, Chikatsuyu has good bus connections, making it easy to skip part of the route by bus if needed.
For your first day, it is also a good idea to keep the distance to about 13 km (8 miles) to Chikatsuyu. This gives your body time to adjust to walking on the Kumano Kodo and helps you enjoy the following days more comfortably without overexerting yourself.
Chikatsuyu: A Historic Post Town
Chikatsuyu offers more than just convenience.
During the Heian period, Chikatsuyu was an important post town for emperors and aristocrats on the Kumano Pilgrimage to Kumano Hongu Taisha. It was also the final place where many pilgrims spent the night before reaching the sacred shrine.
After days of walking, pilgrims rested here and prepared themselves for their visit to Kumano Hongu Taisha the following day. Historical records also tell of poetry gatherings and banquets held in Chikatsuyu, where travelers shared stories, composed waka poems, and celebrated their journey together.
Today, by spending a night in Chikatsuyu, you can experience a small part of what those pilgrims may have felt centuries ago.
After a day on the trail, enjoy a leisurely dinner and reflect on the path you have walked. Then, quietly prepare yourself for your visit to Kumano Hongu Taisha the following day. Moments like these are one of the true joys of walking the Kumano Kodo.
More than just a stop on your journey—a night to reflect on over 1,000 years of pilgrimage history.
A stay in Chikatsuyu will make your journey along the Kumano Kodo even more meaningful and rewarding.
Related Articles
Make the Most of This Route
・ Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route: Beginner’s Guide to 2-, 3-, and 4-Day Itineraries, Akagigoe & the Kumano River Boat Tour
Recommended Model Courses for the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route
Where to Stay on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route
🏡 Guesthouse COZY（Chikatsuyu）
About 13 km (8 miles) from Takijiri-oji.
Located about halfway to Kumano Hongu Taisha, it is an ideal place to rest before the longer hike on the following day.
With only three guest rooms, Guesthouse COZY offers an intimate atmosphere where sharing dinner with hikers from around the world becomes one of the most memorable parts of your journey.
A Small Guesthouse with Only Three Rooms
Meet Fellow Hikers
Homemade Dinner, Breakfast & Packed Lunch
Solo Travelers Welcome
▶ View Accommodation at Guesthouse COZY
