Lush green forests and mountains as far as one can see; countless streams and waterfalls with crystal water; and rustic friendly villages – this is what first sparks the interest. Then the rich heritage of the region considered the spiritual heartland of Japan gets you hooked. Kumano is situated in the southern part of the Kii Peninsula, just three hours by train or car from Nagoya or Osaka. This mountainous area is a great place to cool down and power up during Tokyo’s boiling summer.

This article was published in Metropolis magazine, in June 2012.

Please read the full text of this article here: Kumano: Hikers’ Heaven Meets Onsen Paradise