The Kumano Kodo is a network of ancient pilgrimage routes across the Kii Peninsula, registered as a UNESCO World Heritage site, and its Iseji route is the one that runs through Mie — linking the great shrine of Ise with the sacred Kumano region down the prefecture’s rugged southern coast. Walked by pilgrims for over a thousand years, the Iseji climbs a series of atmospheric mountain passes paved with moss-covered cobblestones, threading through towering cedar forest between glimpses of the Pacific. The most beloved section is the Magose-toge pass, a beautifully preserved stone-paved climb that makes an achievable and unforgettable half-day hike.
🗓️ At a Glance
| Location | Southern Mie coast (Owase, Kumano) |
| Hours | Daytime hiking |
| Admission | Free |
| Time needed | Half day per pass section |
| Best time | Spring and autumn for comfortable walking |
What to See
- Moss-covered stone-paved mountain passes through cedar forest.
- The beautifully preserved Magose-toge pass hike.
- Glimpses of the Pacific from the ridgelines.
- A UNESCO World Heritage pilgrimage over 1,000 years old.
Combine Your Visit
- Combine with Onigajo on the Kumano coast.
- Pair with Ise Jingu at the route’s northern end.
- Read our Mie overview .
Getting There
- By train: JR Kisei Line serves trailhead stations like Owase for the Magose pass.
- Guidance: local tourist centres provide maps and trail condition info.
Tips
You don’t need to walk the whole route — pick one preserved pass such as Magose-toge for a rewarding half-day that captures the essence of the pilgrimage without a multi-day commitment. Wear proper hiking shoes as the mossy cobblestones are slippery when wet, go in spring or autumn for the kindest weather, and pick up a trail map from the Owase or Kumano tourist centres before setting off.
