About Tour Guide Keiji H.

Thomas, his wife, and I enjoyed a beautiful six-day trip to Koyasan and Kumano Kodo during the late autumn, when the autumn leaves were at their peak. Before the trip, we spent three months discussing the details online, searching for hotels and temple lodging with limited availability due to the busy season, deciding which hiking routes to take, and figuring out logistics like river descents, luggage transfers, and transportation via trains and taxis. During the trip, we didn't have big troubles, and any small issues were resolved through open communication between the guests and the guide, finding solutions together. As they frequently enjoy hiking in Switzerland, Thomas and his wife handled the demanding Kumano Kodo hike—55 km and 2,700 meters of elevation gain over three days—effortlessly. They enjoyed conversations with other hikers in English, French, Spanish, and Italian. They also have a deep understanding of Japanese religion and culture, so they truly enjoyed conversations about the Buddhist teachings, paintings, and artworks at Koyasan, as well as the natural beauty along the Kumano Kodo. During our breaks and meals, I had the privilege of hearing about their extensive professional and research experience, which broadened my perspective. I also learned about their life in Switzerland and their past travels around the world and Japan. Both Thomas and his wife were kind to everyone we met, including the locals, hotel staff, and taxi drivers, engaging in warm and heartfelt conversations. I hope they return next time in spring, when the cherry blossoms are in full bloom. Thank you for the opportunity to guide. Keiji H.

They are 8 customers from Portugal who were new to Kumano Kodo and wanted to get its pilgrimage certification. I'm happy to help them to get the certification, enjoy Kumano walking, and find local sushi and ramen restaurants. Additionally, the customers, who practice Tai Chi very hard at home, immersed themselves in the nature of Kumano while practicing Tai Chi. I realize there are ways to experience Kumano Kodo other than just walking.

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