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Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/7/30 10:50
Hi all,

I'm planning to go for Kumano kodo trail on early Nov. From the pictures, I saw that the trail is fairly quiet. Will it be safe for a female traveller to go alone along this trail? Otherwise, should I consider to go on weekend for a busier trail?

Thank you.
by Moccy  

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/7/30 19:19
The main dangers would be the weather, wild animals, and tripping on roots.

If you fear being stuck there with a broken limb then I suggest doing it on a busy day
by Joshua Hugh (guest) rate this post as useful

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/7/30 19:25
Hi Joshua,
Are you referring to a certain trail at Kumano Kodo?
by Moccy rate this post as useful

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/8/25 22:33
I just finished the Kohechi & Nakahechi, starting at Koya. I preferred the "remoteness" of the former, as well as the scenery, although it was a little harder. In three days of walking & sleeping out I only met one other walker, taking a stroll for the day.

There are a couple of approved huts you could stay in, one of which was beautiful. I'd happily stay there alone as a man, but it was midday. As a woman, you would be pretty isolated on that trail, which may or not be an issue. I would say you'd almost certainly be fine.

On the Naka, even on Monday, I encountered a LOT more traffic, especially groups of Italians of both sexes, and a couple of LARGE groups of older Japanese. More non-Japanese than locals, definitely. For me it was less enjoyable, and not as easy a stroll as some sources suggest. Plus the deer flies near the end (the start for most people: Takijiri) were INTOLERABLE. But November would be fine.

There were bear & wasp warning signs on the Kohechi & mamushi signs on the Naka but I saw none, sadly!
by Goat (guest) rate this post as useful

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/8/26 00:26
I don't see many problems with a female travelling alone - but I do think the biggest worry is getting injured and not being able to get help as a single traveller.

Some areas of the track are quite rugged and have no cell phone coverage - but this is rare for the most part.

I've only personally walked a couple of the more accessible sections - so others will know more than I do on this.
by mfedley rate this post as useful

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/9/15 12:18
Hi Goat and mfedley,

Thank you for coming back to share your experience! Really appreciate it.

For this year's trip, I have decided to focus on Tohoku as my knee is giving problem recently. To be frank, I'm still not mentally and physically prepared to be completely alone in the forest, so this upcoming trip will be a practise for a longer hike. I'm planning to do Kumano Kodo next spring when the weather is good.

Noted on the bear warning and deer flies. As much as I want to see the bear, I don't wish to encounter them when I'm alone. Haha.
by Moccy rate this post as useful

Re: Kumano Kodo trail for solo traveller 2015/9/15 23:06
If your going to visit Japan in early November - look very closely at Fall colours. For me - this is the best time to travel around Japan and Tohoku is at it's best in Late October to Mid November.

Oh how jealous am I!

For suggestions - I'd make a new post (or search the forum) with rough dates and ask for suggestions for possible walks which could be highlighted by koyo or fall. Do note that prices will be more expensive around this time (mostly weekends) but oh the leaves!! the leaves!!! (aka - tree porn!)

http://www.japan-guide.com/community/mfedley/report-1820
by mfedley rate this post as useful

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