Each autumn, the ancient paths of Tanabe in Wakayama come alive with the Kumano Kodai Matsuri, a festival that blends centuries-old tradition with the raw pulse of the wilderness. This event isn’t just a celebration; it’s an adventure that invites you to trace the footsteps of pilgrims who have journeyed through rugged, forested terrain for over a thousand years. The core experience stretches over a 10-kilometer route winding through varied elevation — a steady 350-meter ascent that tests endurance without overwhelming.

The trail challenges you with rocky surfaces and occasional slippery moss where the forest floor drinks in every drop of moisture. Towering cedar trees form a natural cathedral above, their branches whispering encouragement as the rivers nearby murmur in defiance, urging you onward. Your senses sharpen here: the crisp clean air filling your lungs, the damp earth beneath sturdy boots, and glimpses of red maple leaves starting their seasonal blaze.

This festival is not merely witnessed but lived, with traditional music and dance punctuating the hike at key stops, reminding you that this path is fiercely intertwined with local culture. Planning is practical: start early to avoid afternoon fatigue and to catch clear views before mist rolls in. Pack at least two liters of water and wear trail shoes with reliable grip; the path rewards steady steps and punishes complacency.

The Kumano Kodai Matsuri is accessible for most hikers with moderate fitness, offering a grounded adventure full of history, nature, and ritual. Each stride on this festival trail connects you to a legacy of pilgrimage and reverence for a landscape that’s very much alive, challenging you to match its tempo while savoring every vivid detail it offers.