Things to Do in the Takahara Area of the Kumano Kodo (Nakahechi): Gourmet Food & Top Attractions
Takahara, famous for its breathtaking sea of clouds, is a small village of about 70 residents located along the World Heritage–listed Kumano Kodo in Wakayama Prefecture.
The Kumano Kodo consists of five major pilgrimage routes, and Takahara sits along the Nakahechi, the main trail that has been the most frequently walked by pilgrims for centuries.
The Kumano Kodo has been visited by countless people since the Heian period (794–1185), regardless of social status. Even today, it is cherished as both a sacred power spot and a popular trekking route. Known as the “Land of Rebirth”, this ancient pilgrimage trail is said to refresh both mind and body.
In this article, we’ll introduce the highlights of the Takahara (Kogen) area of the Kumano Kodo — including must-see sightseeing spots, delicious local restaurants, and recommended accommodations.
Recommended Attractions in the Takahara Area
Here are some must-see sights in Takahara, a scenic area along the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Route. If you are lucky, you may even catch a glimpse of the mystical sea of clouds.
The Oldest Shrine along the Kumano Kodo ｜ Takahara Kumano Shrine
Takahara Kumano Shrine is the oldest surviving shrine along the Kumano Kodo, famous for its brightly painted shrine buildings and a majestic 1,000-year-old camphor tree. You’ll be amazed by the sheer size of this ancient tree, and the shrine itself is beloved as a spiritual “power spot” on the pilgrimage route.
During the Meiji era (1868–1912), when the government ordered the separation of Shinto and Buddhism (Shinbutsu Bunri), the shrine was nearly destroyed. However, it was miraculously preserved and continues to stand today. A visit to Takahara Kumano Shrine truly feels like a blessing of history and faith.
Just a short walk away is the Kiri-no-Sato Takahara Rest Area, which is also worth visiting together.
Address.
〒646-1416 1120, Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Access.
From Takijiri Bus Stop, it’s about a 1 hour 45 minute walk along the Kumano Kodo.
parking lot
‘Takahara Fog Village Rest Area’ Parking. (free of charge, 15 vehicles).
Kiri-no-Sato Rest Area, Takahara – Famous Viewpoint on the Kumano Kodo
The Kiri-no-Sato Rest Area is equipped with a shop, toilets, a public telephone, and parking, making it a convenient stop for travelers walking the Kumano Kodo.
Situated at an altitude of 300 meters, it is also a popular lookout point offering panoramic views of the Hatenashi mountain range and the surrounding terraced rice paddies. Sunset is especially beautiful here, as the mountains glow in the evening light.
On certain mornings, you may even witness a mystical sea of clouds. The best chances are on early mornings after rainfall, particularly during seasons with a large difference between daytime and nighttime temperatures. For the best experience, rise early and enjoy a walk while the village is wrapped in clouds.
Address
1120 Takahara, Nakahechi-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama 646-1416, Japan
Parking
Free parking available at the Kiri-no-Sato Takahara Rest Area (15 spaces).
Iwami Woodworks – Unique, Handcrafted Wooden Items with a Touch of Warmth
How about taking home a one-of-a-kind wooden craft as a Kumano Kodo souvenir? From chopping boards and photo frames to even beds, all are made from beautiful Kishu cypress wood. This welcoming gallery is a place where you can stop by casually and enjoy the craftsmanship.
The nearby inn SEN.RETREAT, which we will introduce later, also features desks and key holders handcrafted by Iwami Woodworks.
At the entrance, you’ll find a charming wooden sign that says “Please feel free to look around.” Be sure to stop in and discover these warm, handcrafted creations.
Opening Hours
8:30 – 17:00 (Closed on Sundays)
Address
1150 Takahara, Nakahechi-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama 646-1416, Japan
Official website
https://www2.w-shokokai.or.jp/nakahechi/map/iwami.html
Cafés and Sweets in the Takahara Area
After walking to the Takahara area, it’s always a pleasure to find a cozy spot to relax. Here are some recommended cafés and sweet shops where you can take a break and enjoy local flavors.
Meguru Pastry Shop – A Small Mountain Bakery in Takahara
Meguru is a small cake shop that currently accepts orders by reservation only. They offer shortcakes, other seasonal cakes, cookies, and baked treats. What makes the shop truly unique is their commitment to creating cakes tailored to each individual customer — no two cakes are ever the same!
On certain days, Meguru also sells its sweets at the nearby Kiri-no-Sato Takahara Rest Area, introduced earlier. For the latest updates, be sure to check their Instagram account before visiting.
Cake reservations can be made by phone or through direct message on Instagram. If you’re staying at a nearby inn, why not surprise someone with a birthday party featuring a custom-made cake from Meguru?
Address.
872-1 Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Phone.
0739-64-1667
https://www.instagram.com/meguru.cake/
Guest House & Coffee Keyaki（欅）
At Keyaki, you can enjoy freshly brewed coffee as well as hearty curry. Located along a small path on the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo, it’s the perfect spot to take a break during your trek.
The coffee is carefully ground to order, ensuring rich aroma and flavor. After your meal, you can also enjoy pound cake and other homemade sweets. The curry, simmered with a blend of vegetables and fruit, is a comforting dish that soothes tired bodies after a long walk.
Please note that Keyaki now operates only on limited days, so be sure to check in advance before your visit.
Address.
798-2, Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Phone.
0739-64-0991
Where to Stay in the Takahara Area – Recommended Accommodations
If you are trekking from JR Kii-Tanabe Station to the Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine over a period of three days and two nights, Kogen is the perfect location for your first night’s accommodation.
We therefore recommend the following recommended accommodation in Takahara.
SEN.RETREAT TAKAHARA
SEN.RETREAT TAKAHARA is a private rental inn that opened in 2021 after the renovation of a traditional Japanese house. As it is completely self-service, you can enjoy your stay in total privacy without having to worry about other guests.
Its location makes it an ideal base for exploring the Kumano Kodo. It is about a two-and-a-half-hour walk from the famous Takijiri Oji on the Nakahechi route, and roughly one and a half hours by bus and on foot from Kumano Hongu Taisha.
All meals and drinks are included in the accommodation fee, featuring locally sourced meat, vegetables, sake, juice, and snacks from Wakayama Prefecture. You can enjoy them freely without concern for the cost — and if you have leftovers, you’re welcome to take them home.
Gather in the spacious wooden living room filled with warmth, share stories around a bonfire in the evening, and marvel at a sky full of stars you can’t see in the city. SEN.RETREAT TAKAHARA offers an unforgettable blend of comfort, privacy, and natural beauty.
Address
〒646-1416 1966 Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Access.
40 minutes by car from the Kamitonda IC, 45 minutes by car from JR Kii-Tanabe Station.
Official website
https://sen-retreat.com/stay/takahara/
Kirinosato Takahara
Just a 10-minute walk from SEN.RETREAT TAKAHARA is Kirinosato Takahara, a hot spring inn where you can soak in mineral-rich waters sourced from the nearby Watarase Onsen. It’s the perfect way to relax tired muscles after a long trek. Heated with firewood from locally thinned trees, the baths are gentle on the skin and carry a soft, natural warmth.
The inn’s concept is “No borders, no language barriers here”. Travelers from across Japan and around the world come together here, sharing stories and connections along the Kumano Kodo.
Guests staying at SEN.RETREAT TAKAHARA often visit Kirinosato Takahara as a day-use hot spring, making it a popular stop for both relaxation and cultural exchange
Day spa opening hours
11:00-20:00 (Tuesdays from 15:00).
Amenity
Rinse-in shampoo, body soap.
One-day spa bathing fee
Adults 600 yen
Child 400 yen
Address.
〒646-1416 826 Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan
Access.
45 minutes by bus from JR Kii-Tanabe Station, 30 minutes by bus from JR Shingu Station.
Official website
https://kirinosato-takahara.com/sp/
Japanese inn (lodge) masala
Hatago Masara is a charming guesthouse opened in 2020, run by a Japanese owner from Aichi Prefecture and his French wife — a couple who first met on the Kumano Kodo itself. Located right next to Takahara Kumano Shrine in the heart of the Takahara area, it offers excellent access for pilgrims and travelers alike.
The inn was created by renovating a 60-year-old traditional Japanese house, providing a warm and relaxing “wa” (Japanese-style) atmosphere. In contrast, the meals feature handmade French home-style dishes, offering a delightful cultural blend that reflects the international spirit of the Kumano Kodo.
Even if you’re not staying overnight, you can stop by for a light meal or café time — enjoying galettes, cakes, and drinks in a cozy setting.
Address.
〒646-1416 1119-1, Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Access
40-minute drive from Kamitonda IC, 30-minute drive from Kurisugawa bus stop.
Official website
https://www.kumano-travel.com/ja/accommodations/hatago-masara
Hoshizora-no-yado
Last but not least is Hoshizora-no-Yado, a cozy log cabin cottage opened by an owner with a passion for stargazing — who also happens to be a plum farmer, one of Wakayama’s specialties! Limited to just two groups per day with a maximum of four guests, this intimate lodge offers a truly personal stay.
The rooms, filled with the warmth of natural wood, create a relaxing atmosphere. In the evening, you can sip a drink beneath a star-filled sky, even catching sight of the Milky Way — a truly unforgettable experience.
Meals are lovingly prepared using fresh local ingredients, featuring delicacies such as meat, sweetfish (ayu), and seasonal vegetables.
A private car transport service is also available. Perfect for those who want to enjoy trekking along the Kumano Kodo but prefer to return by car at the end of the day.
Address.
〒646-1416 1154-7, Takahara, Nakaheji-cho, Tanabe City, Wakayama Prefecture
Access.
40-minute drive from Kamitonda IC, 30-minute drive from Kurisugawa bus stop.
Official website
https://www.hoshizoranoyado.com/
Access to Nakahechi and Takahara
Let’s take a look at how to get to the Takahara by means of transport.
Trekking (on foot)
From Takijiri bus stop, 1 hr 45 min walk along the Kumano Kodo.
Access by private vehicle
From Kumano Hongu Taisha, approx. 45 mins via Route 311.
From Kamitonda IC, approx. 40 mins.
Access by public transport
40-minute drive from JR Kii-Tanabe Station.
Recommendations for things to do on the Takahara
See other articles for plans to enjoy the Nakahechi to the fullest, including the Takahara. Please refer to these as well!
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