The Kumano Kodo is a pilgrimage route located on the Kii peninsula, on the island of Honshū, the largest in Japan. Like the Jacobean path in Spain, whose origin dates back to the Middle Ages, the Japanese route (which emerged in the Heian period) is made up of various paths and branches leading to the three main Kumano shrines, the most popular being the Nakahechi route. While the Santiago Cathedral is a Catholic church, the Kumano Kodo is considered the cradle of Shintoism, the original cult of Japan that worships the spirits of nature, although it also integrates Buddhism. Therefore, temples and sanctuaries of both religions coexist harmoniously along its route. Its paths cross various areas of southwestern Japan and in its final stretch reaches Wakayama, a prefecture twinned with Galicia.
This Japanese route, despite being framed in a religion different from the Christian faith, was linked to the Camino de Santiago in 1998 due to their common values and purposes. In fact, those pilgrims who complete both twin routes, collecting the relevant stamps in their mixed passport, can receive the certificate and insignia of «Dual Pilgrim». An initiative that denotes the strong commitment of both regions to protect and promote around the world their rich historical, cultural and spiritual heritage.
Pilgrimages create bonds of union, spread ideas and bring people together. That is why, in the age of globalization, information and mass transportation, people continue to walk the ancient Camino de Santiago and Kumano Kodo; perhaps in search of a reconnection with the natural environment, with other individuals and with oneself. Because of their intangible value, both routes have been declared World Heritage Sites by UNESCO. The year 2023 marks the 25th anniversary of a brotherhood that goes beyond any cult or nationality.