Akkun’s FOCUS vol.3

Kumano calls you when the time come. It is not you to decide visiting Kumano Kodo. 

I had not been invited for a long time until an emergency call to my cell phone which told me to come right away for guiding a group. The group was not so happy about the trip supported by a long experienced and intelligent guide. I was extremely exhausted right after a Nakasendo, another historical trail, tour for two weeks. I went to Kumano immediately with my whole guiding gear.

It was just an enjoyable walking tour after all for all of us. We talked and joked a lot on the way while walking. When the clients arrived at Kyoto after the pilgrimage tour, they were certain that they were reborn in Kumano Kodo as it was always said. I also felt that my fatigue of the previous tour was entirely gone.

What Kumano has done for us?

The whole area, from Takijiri to Hongu shrine, then Shingu to Nachi shrine, is the natural Mandala to show the balance of universe to all the visitors. The scenery, sound, wind and people show us the fundamental, at the same time, simple meaning of life. We live to love.

A lady in the tour group asked me,

“Where is your happy smile come from? What’s the secret?”

It must be Kumano magic what you also enjoy fully when you finally come here.