Second career lost on the verge of returning to Japan Reflecting on the past on a sacred path and feeling a strong sense of gratitude [Journey to Kumano Kodo to reflect on life/monitored tour].

SEN.RETREAT organised a monitoring tour in December 2023 as part of the full-fledged launch of the ‘Journey to Think about Life’ tour, a three-day, two-night walking and reflection tour along the Kumano Kodo path.
People facing milestones in their lives, such as career, marriage, second life, separation, etc., were recruited and analysed through interviews as to what changes would occur inside them as a result of walking the Kumano Kodo, in an attempt to develop the actual tour.
In this article, we interviewed participants in the monitoring tour about how their feelings changed when they made a pilgrimage along the Kumano Kodo.

Participant Profile.
Mr Yorio Kimura (57).
Has worked as a public servant for more than 30 years. His hobby is mountain climbing.

-What ‘life milestones’ are you currently facing?In addition, please tell us why you decided to take part in this tour

I am approaching my 60th birthday in a few years and have started to think about what kind of second career I would like to have.
I have been living a work-oriented life, but I have not yet developed a clear vision of my second life.
My current job allows me to continue working past the age of 60 if I want to, but I still haven’t decided whether I want to continue or try a new career. As I am single, I am considering the possibility of moving to a different place than I am now. I took part because I wanted to use the time I have left to think about what I really want to do and what I can do, and to face up to my inner self.

I have always liked mountain climbing, but usually the walk itself is the objective and I have never done any introspection while walking. So I was looking forward to seeing what kind of introspection I could do this time.

On the Kumano Kodo, I would like to feel the sacred air and search for myself as well.
Living in Miyagi Prefecture, I have the impression that the Kumano Kodo is a distant unknown place, and I am glad to finally set foot there.

-How was your actual visit?

There was a unique atmosphere on the Kumano Kodo, and I felt strangely sacred.Even though it was winter, the wind was calm and I felt like I was in the bosom of nature.I was able to immerse myself in walking more than I usually do.

In the end, I still haven’t sorted out my life after 60, but I do feel that I have stimulated a part of my inner mind. I have been able to take a lot of time to reflect and think about my life so far.
I remember a lot of things that have hurt other people and things that have helped me, and I feel more grateful for the people around me. I feel that I have had a good time.
I have a renewed feeling that I should be more grateful than ever for the people I am involved with now.

-Would you like to visit the Kumano Kodo when you face another milestone in your life?

I feel that I will probably visit the Kumano Kodo again in the not-too-distant future, as if I am sucked in again.
I also thought that it might be possible to live in Kumano Kodo, so there is a possibility that I might move there (laughs).

*Download the journaling sheet (Second Life version) developed through this monitoring tour to aid reflection.Please print it out, take it with you and make use of it when walking the Kumano Kodo.