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

This was my first time to attend a meeting, in which my Canadian customers and a museum president tried to research their family history in Japan, and assist in communications among the attendants. I think I learned how to identify important topics and documents necessary, and communicate with the attendants beforehand. Delores and her partner were so kind and flexible that we did not have serious troubles with transportation logistics or meeting procedures. Thank you again for giving me this great opportunity. I would be happy to help them find their family histories in the future, as well.

Thank you for giving me a great opportunity to enjoy 2 days in Kumano Kodo. Even though it was extremely hot and humid, every one finished all itineraries and listened to my explanation carefully. The parents of this group did a great job leading their children kindly, and the children understood Japanese costumes and behaved in good manners at temples and shrines. While eating and resting, we talked about not only Kumano Kodo things but also French/Japanse culture things, which made me more interested in France. Alban, leader of the group, and I contacted me February of 2024 and started planning this Kumano Kodo trip(the trip was held August of 2024). Our communication via Internets was smooth and comfortable, therefore, I could suggest him walking courses and sightseeing spots, which were suitable for the group. I look forward to seeing them again, preferably, in spring/autumn, when we can enjoy beautiful cherry blossoms and autumn mountain leaves.