Far from the crowds of Japan’s famous tourist routes lies the Kunisaki Peninsula, a landscape shaped by ancient forests, volcanic peaks, and centuries of spiritual tradition.

The Kunisaki Long Trail follows sections of the historic Rokugo Manzan Mineiri pilgrimage route, once walked by ascetic mountain monks practicing Shugendo. For more than a thousand years, these sacred mountains have been a place of training, prayer, and deep connection with nature.

Today, hikers can retrace these mystical paths and experience a side of Japan few international travelers have discovered.

Walk through sacred nature
The trail leads you through quiet forests, remote mountain paths, and historic temple landscapes unique to the Kunisaki Peninsula.
・Along the route you may discover:
・Hidden temples nestled deep in the mountains
・Moss-covered stone Buddhas carved into cliffs
・Ancient pilgrimage paths used by mountain monks
・Panoramic views of the Seto Inland Sea
・Peaceful rural villages where traditional life continues

Each step reveals the deep relationship between nature, Buddhism, and mountain worship that defines the spiritual culture of Kunisaki.

Discover one of Japan’s best hidden hiking destinations
Unlike Japan’s more famous pilgrimage routes, the Kunisaki Long Trail remains quiet, authentic, and largely undiscovered by international travelers.

For those seeking adventure beyond the usual destinations, it offers a rare chance to explore sacred mountains, rich history, and untouched nature.

Step off the beaten path and experience a journey where spiritual tradition and wild landscapes meet.

Often compared to the famous Kumano Kodo pilgrimage, the Kunisaki Long Trail offers a quieter and more adventurous alternative.