Kumano Private Tours & Local Tour Guides

A Memorable Journey on the Kumano Kodo with New Friends from Switzerland Over the last four months, I had the pleasure of planning a Kumano Kodo tour for a lovely couple from Switzerland, Tobias and Cecile. From his very first message, Tobias and I worked closely together—starting with a rough idea and gradually shaping it into a detailed, customized trip that fit their travel schedule, hiking preferences, and interests. We took our time to consider everything: the hiking routes of the Kumano Kodo, accommodations, transportation, and even the small logistics like vegetarian meals and luggage transfers along the trail. Because we had so much time to prepare and so many chances to talk, we ended up forming a friendship that felt like we’d known each other for a long time. I was truly honored to spend five full days with them, from morning to night, walking through the sacred paths of the Kumano Kodo together. We enjoyed fresh greens of mid-spring, wild bird songs, and coffee breaks. Cécile took stunning photos of roadside flowers, trees, and mountains with the skill of a professional—good enough to publish a photo book of the Kumano Kodo. Along the way, we shared not only the natural beauty of the trail but also stories about our families, past travel experiences, and the unique cultures of Switzerland, Japan, and Europe. One particularly memorable moment was when Tobias and I sat and talked for over an hour at Yunomine Onsen. That conversation felt like the start of what I’d call a “naked friendship.” Now, my wife and I are dreaming about the next adventure in Switzerland. I hope one day soon my family can visit, hike the Swiss Alps with them, and enjoy apple pies and coffee together. Out of all the Kumano Kodo tours I’ve walked so far, this one left a special mark on my heart. I’m deeply grateful for the time we spent together and the memories we made on this sacred pilgrimage trail. Keiji at the Kumano Kodo, Japan

Itay san, Thank you very much for choosing my tour and your feedback!! I appreciate it very much. I was sorry the climb was a little bit tough for your mother. I hope both you and your mother could relax with onsen hot spring at the hotel. Please enjoy walking Kumano Kodo for a few more days. Thank you!!

Thank you very much for your kind message. It was a sunny and warm day yesterday and it was a long trip. I hope that your client liked Kumano Kodo and Nachi Waterfall. Always, Hiro