I’m planning a trip to Japan around New Year’s (around Dec 28,2021-Jan 14, 2022). I recently learned about the Nakasendo Way and Kumano Kodo trails. I am pretty avid hiker, but worry that trying to do this during that time of year may be tough. I’ve read that some of the accommodations may not be open around this time because of the holiday, and also weather is iffy. Can people confirm this?
Is there perhaps a segment of these walks that you would recommend in Winter? I’ve backpacked before, done hikes that are 15 miles plus, but I am bit worried about hiking through snow and having to pack more gear for that.
Thanks in advance!
8 comments
I’ve not done Kumano Kodo in winter but the Nakahechi trail is well-maintained and has signs along the way. I recommend the first half of the west to east route, ending at the Hongu (usually done as 3 days, 2 nights trip). On this route, you’re never a couple hours away from the bus stops or the villages in case you need to bail.
The 2nd half of the Nakahechi is a bit tougher, the trail is more narrow and less traveled.
Note that your inn expect you to check in before dark, or they might mount a search party for you (this has happened at an inn I was at, major inconvenience for everyone just because a guy decided he wanted to camp instead…). So time your hike well since sunset is around 4 pm in winter.
> but I am bit worried about hiking through snow
Unfortunately, wintery conditions are possibility, though usually ice and freezing rain are more hazardous than snow, although the latter can be persistant at high elevations, so winter hiking gear is very strongly recommended.
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There’s a company oku Japan that will setup a tour of Nakasendo for you https://www.okujapan.com/. We did that for my honeymoon and it was an amazing trip!
Sharing this valuable resource:
https://walkkumano.com/
I don’t want to sound like a broken record or anything, but… please keep in mind that Japan may not be open for tourism yet on the dates you mention. With that in mind, I would personally recommend holding off on booking anything (that isn’t fully refundable).
My husband walked through the Nakasendo route from Kyoto to Tokyo in the peak of summer. Took him 2 weeks, and he lost so much weight. It was brutal, but fun, according to him.
I can definitely recommend Nakahechi route of Kumano Kodo. If you are an avid hiker you will be fine! Just bring some cold weather gear just in case. Nakahechi is open year round and winters are mild. Snow rarely falls and when it does it melts quickly. It may get around freezing temperature at night, but generally not very cold. Great weather for hiking! A bit further south and warmer than the Nakasendo area. Worse case is you need to hike in a couple inches of snow, but it’s unlikely, and if you get too cold, I can offer rescue service! 😄 I live not to far away. Someone recommended just hiking half, but its a great trail and experience. If you have time try to hike the whole thing! Go for it! As far as accommodation being open, there is a chance they have a new year’s holiday. Just check the accommodations website first. PM me if it works out for you, maybe I can offer some support. Good luck!