Kumano Nachi Taisha: A Sacred Site on the Kumano Kodo
Discover Kumano Nachi Taisha: A spiritual haven, where ancient trails meet Japan's tallest waterfall in a symphony of nature and tradition.
Kumano Nachi Taisha, nestled in the mountains of Wakayama Prefecture, is a Shinto shrine with ancient roots in nature worship. Part of the Kumano Sanzan pilgrimage, it stands alongside the Buddhist temple Seiganto-ji near the iconic Nachi Falls. This UNESCO World Heritage site offers a glimpse into Japan's spiritual heartland.
A brief summary to Kumano-Nachi Taisha
- 1 Nachisan, Nachikatsuura, Nachisan, Higashimuro District, Wakayama, 649-5301, JP
- +81735-55-0321
- Visit website
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes, especially if you plan to walk the Daimonzaka or other sections of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.
- Bring cash for entrance fees to the treasure house, pagoda, and for purchasing souvenirs.
- Check the bus schedule in advance, as services to and from Kii-Katsuura Station and Nachi Station run approximately every 45 minutes.
- Consider visiting early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the mystical atmosphere in peace.
- Take time to explore both Kumano Nachi Taisha Shrine and the adjacent Seiganto-ji Temple to appreciate the blend of Shinto and Buddhist influences.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Kii-Katsuura Station, take the Kumano Gobo Nankai bus towards Nachi Falls. The bus ride takes approximately 30 minutes to the Nachi-san bus stop, costing 630 yen. Alternatively, a bus from Nachi Station will cost 490 yen and take 20 minutes. From the Nachi-san bus stop, it is a 10-minute walk up a series of stairs to reach the main buildings of Nachi Taisha and Seigantoji Temple.
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Walking
For a traditional pilgrimage experience, disembark the bus at the Daimonzaka bus stop and walk the Daimonzaka trail. This stone-paved path leads 600 meters uphill to the shrine gates, surrounded by ancient cedar trees. The walk takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours. Note that the path involves climbing 267 stairs.
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Taxi
Taxis are available from Kii-Katsuura Station to Kumano Nachi Taisha. The taxi ride takes approximately 7 minutes and costs between 3,400 and 4,200 yen. Note that taxi availability may be limited, and prices can vary depending on traffic conditions.
Discover more about Kumano-Nachi Taisha
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Hall of Worship
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Unmissable attractions to see
Kumano-Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Homotsu-den Treasure Hall
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Seiganto-ji
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Nachi Waterfall
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割烹BAR = EL CAMINO DEL POETA =
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