Backpacking Japan's Ancient Trail: The Kumano Kodo

Japan is often viewed in the west as a technological powerhouse sprawling with densely packed cities that have a neon cyberpunk aesthetic. But outside of the city limits Japan also offers beautiful natural scenery, rugged but rewarding hiking, and the quiet tranquility of rural towns. One of its most incredible experiences is the Kumano Kodo, an ancient trail dating back thousands of years which has been used as a spiritual pilgrimage trail for monks, travelers, Samurai, and even royalty.

On the last two episodes of Adventure Archives we traveled across Japan to hike this trail, braving some of the most grueling uphills, muggy summer weather, and even leeches. But in return we were rewarded with Incredible sits of fantastic wilderness, awe inspiring shrines, and plenty of zen. Join us in the final part of our three-part special as we finish out the final two days of our hike where we experienced some of the hardest hiking on the trail yet as well as some of the most incredible wonders in the world.