Kumano-Nachi Grand Shrine

This shrine felt calm and beautiful even on a rainy day after walking up the Daimonzaka slope. It was a bit crowded which is expected since it draws visitors in any weather. From here, you can walk further to reach the viewpoint of Nachi Waterfall and the iconic pagoda.

Beautiful shrine. Amazing view. There are 3 levels to it: the grand shrine, the pagoda and the torii in front of the waterfall. Goshuin: 500¥

Part of the world heritage shrine around Naichi. It's nestled high up in the mountains together with the pagodas with the falls

Walked on KK trail arriving at 2.00. It was Saturday so busy with local and foreigners alike. Amazing Shinto and Buddhist temple. I just loved the wooden structure of the temple. It's a large site on side of mountain so lots of stairs. The 3 tiered pagoda has only recently been opened again after being repainted. Be aware buses are packed. I managed to get on my bus while queuing but many many left behind and have to wait another hr. Down hill stops noon picked up. Waterfall beautiful.

This shrine is one of the Kumano Sanzan and famous for its location with the Nachi Waterfall. The shrine is quite normal but like the main shrine, you will need to walk many steps to reach its level (esp. from Waterfall level). You can just spend time on the pagoda and waterfall instead of here which are more scenic.

Beautiful temple and waterfall. Can also hike along the Kumano-kodo to another temple 1 hours walk from the main temple really worth it. About 40mins on the way back.

Japan's highest waterfall. If you're in the area, it's a must see. Worth a small detour as well, since there is not just the waterfall, but a very beautiful temple and gardens as well. A lot of things to discover, half day trip!

Beautiful temple. You must go through the Camphor holy tree. Kumano Nachi Taisha is a Shinto shrine and part of the UNESCO-designated World Heritage Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range of Japan

This temple was the final destination of my Kumano Kodo pilgrimage expedition and provided a beautiful backdrop for our group to celebrate the accomplishments of our five day journey. Kumano Nachi Taisha is one of the three sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines which also includes Kumano Hongū Taisha and Kumano Hayatama Taisha and provides a place for pilgrims and tourists alike to honor the practices of Buddhist and Shinto traditions. The views here are outstanding as the temple rests near the Nachi Waterfall which is the tallest waterfall in Japan and is very close to the Kii Katsura village. Many tourists visit this location and especially during the Nachi-no-Hi Matsuri Fire Festival which is performed on July 14 every year and attracts many visitors. Fortunately for us, it was relatively quiet while we were there so we were able to take advantage of the wide open space to take pictures and enjoy this very special moment.

Perhaps the most picturesque place I've ever been. Pictures don't do it justice, but I'll post a few. This is an amazing area of Japan. We were the only westerners, and I believe non-Japanese, there. Use your rail pass and train here from Tokyo. Why brave the tourist crowds in Kyoto, when you can come to the real Japan?