Myoho/Nachi Kogen Area
What is it?
A beautiful, quiet, scenic area near the popular tourist sights of Nachi waterfall and Kumano Nachi Shrine. Myoho is the name of the mountain next to Nachi-san and is the site of Amida-ji, a serene temple whose grounds are kept in immaculate condition by the current residents. The view of the Pacific Ocean from the grassy area near the entrance includes the towns of Nachikatsuura, Taiji, and even stretches to Kushimoto, an hour south. It is one of the best views, and greatest picnic spots, in southern Wakayama.
Nachi kogen is a broad, grassy plateau on the back side of Nachi-san. With the somewhat eerie quality of a large, well-constructed park in the middle of nowhere, it is often deserted. There is a long, flat, grassy area (quite a rarity in Japan) perfect for soccer or frisbee. There are restrooms, a fish pond, and a small café (closed Monday) where you can rent seats for going down the giant roller-slide just behind the café.
Where is it?
Both Myoho and Nachi kogen are accessible from the loop trail that begins at the old stone staircase behind Seigantoji Temple, next to Kumano Nachi Shrine at Nachi-san. The trail, part of the Kumano Kodo, connects Amida-ji with Nachi Kogen as well as passing directly over the peak of Nachi-san. The view of Nachi waterfall and the Pacific Ocean from the peak are quite spectacular. Allow about 3 hours for the full loop trail. Both are also reachable by car via Nachi Skyline. From the far end of the uppermost parking lot at Nachi-san continue along about 15 minutes to the parking area to Amida-ji. Nachi kogen is about 5 minutes further. You must pay 500 yen at the entrance to the uppermost parking lot to drive on Nachi Skyline.
Submitted by Nick Dedini