Kumano Boat River Cruise — Local services in Shingu

A must do. Especially if you don't plan the walk the entire Kumano trail😅. Not only it allows you to appreciate the natural beauty of region, it also reminds you of its brutal power--the same tranquil river (Kumanogawa) was a whole 30meter higher a decade ago during a direct typhoon hit, killing many and destroyed towns along the way. It's amazing to see some of these pictorique villages bouncing back and ever more beautiful, but can't lose sight of the might of the nature that can take away everyrhinf it gives you

Note: the boat trip, like everything else in Japan that requires reservation, needs to be planned ahead in advance about 30-60 days (the window doesn't...

Apparently this is the only river boat pilgrimage in the world which is registered as UNESCO heritage. To secure a spot you need to book ahead months in advance through the Kumano Kodo website. If you want a break from the hiking trail it is a nice alternative to get to Singu and Katsuura, to then access Nachi falls by bus. The tour guides were very professional and friendly, and scenery is beautiful. some of the commentary is hard to follow (delivered in both Japanese and English) in terms of getting a fuller picture of the overall history of the area, but the guides did their...

We had an absolutely wonderful afternoon on the boat tour. Despite it being cold and windy with a little drizzly at times, we still had a wonderful experience. Our guide was friendly, spoke clear English and was entertaining. The river scenery was beautiful. And it amazing to know people have taken this voyage for over 1,000 years. The perfect way to travel to Shingu after walking Kumano...