Central Area Highlight Course
14 million years ago, the remnants of a massive eruption from Kumano Caldera formed the striking Kumano Acidic Rock, which was used in the moss-covered cobblestone paths of Magose-toge Pass and Matsumoto-toge Pass. These scenic spots offer visitors the chance to experience the journey of true pilgrims.
At Hana-no-Iwaya Jinja, you can witness the origins of Japan’s deep-rooted nature worship, represented by Yaoyorozu-no-Kami, where gods dwell in mountains, rivers, and the sea. Sakanoue-no-Tamuramaro is said to have vanquished demons at Onigajo, a natural fortress resembling a medieval mountain castle. At Shichirimihama, selected as one of Japan’s Top 100 Shores, the roaring Shishiiwa stands as a guardian deity for travelers along the ancient trails.
As you walk these historic paths, take a moment to appreciate the modern road maintenance that preserves them.
*Text by storyteller Koji Yamawaki
このモデルコースの概要
- 歩行距離
- 13.5 km
ポイント間の距離と高低差
The Most Beautiful cobblestone path on the Iseji Route—Followed by Fresh Seafood in the Seaport Town Owase
Magose-toge Pass
- 難易度
- 2.5
- 歩行距離
- 4.8 km
- 所要時間
- 2 ~ 3 hours
- 積算上昇高度
- 320 m
- 積算下降高度
- 345 m
Route: Washige Bus Stop → Owase Sta. (Owase Bus Stop, Owase Station Exit Bus Stop)
This route features beautiful cobblestones, allowing you to experience an ancient mountain path. From the trailhead, a steep cobblestone path continues, but you will reach the pass in about 70 minutes. The descent is also steep, but after passing Kitagawa-bashi Bridge near Owase-jinja, you will enter the flat Owase City area.
Owase Sta. serves as a key point for north-south travel via local buses. You may also choose to visit the Kumano Kodo Center, located south of Owase City.
見どころスポット
The flat roads of Owase city center
周辺の宿泊施設
Standing at 135 Meters – A Perfect Pass for Beginners
Matsumoto-toge Pass
- 難易度
- 2.0
- 歩行距離
- 2.9 km
- 所要時間
- 1 ~ 1.5 hours
- 積算上昇高度
- 150 m
- 積算下降高度
- 150 m
Route: Odomari Sta. (Onigajo east exit Bus Stop) → Kumanoshi Sta. (Kumanoshi Station Bus Stop)
This popular pass is an easy route for beginners, offering a casual experience of the Kumano Kodo with its remaining cobblestones. At the pass, a large Jizo statue standing 1.8 meters tall watches over travelers. From the gazebo south of the pass, visitors can enjoy a spectacular view of Shichirimihama.
見どころスポット
The view from the gazebo at Matsumoto-toge Pass
Descend Matsumoto-toge Pass and head to Kumano City
周辺の宿泊施設
Exploring Kumano City with Full of Highlights
Matsumoto-toge Pass, Onigajo, Shishiiwa, Hana-no-Iwaya
- 難易度
- 2.0
- 歩行距離
- 5.8 km
- 所要時間
- 2 ~ 2.5 hours
- 積算上昇高度
- 235 m
- 積算下降高度
- 255 m
This is a highly satisfying route with many highlights. Descend from Matsumoto-toge Pass to Onigajo, then join Kumano Kodo at Kinomoto-jinja.
見どころスポット
The view from the gazebo at Matsumoto-toge Pass
Onigajo Center features a unique Pokémon-themed manhole cover
Descend Matsumoto-toge Pass and head to Kumano City
周辺の宿泊施設
in the upper left corner, you can choose from highlights of Kumano Kodo Iseji and helpful sightseeing information, then check the ones you want to see.
Sightseeing Spots (Highlights)
Tourism Association
Michi-no-Eki (Roadside Station)
Bathing
Accommodation (Lodging)
Coin Laundry
Restroom
Route (Kumano Kodo Iseji Trail)
in the upper right to zoom in on the map.