I was born and raised in Wakayama; so, my impressions of Koyasan and Kumano go back to my early childhood, when they were relaxed, leisurely destinations for family outings. Back then I took them for granted. It wasn’t until I went on a hike up Koyasan with my Girl Scout troop in elementary school that I started to take a real interest in the area. Every trip prior to that had been by car, but walking the mountain gave me the time to take in its distinctive sight and sounds, to be affected by its dignity and grandeur.
The charm of Kumano is found in the splendor and beauty of Kumano Sanzan - the Kumano Sanzan - which contribute to an all-encompassing atmosphere. And of course, there is its power.
It is thrilling to know that we walk the very same routes as those who lived centuries ago, and as I marvel at the surrounding scenery, I feel awed by the care and effort that so many people have contributed to maintain it this way.
As an adult, I have come to realize that nothing about this scenery can be taken for granted, and that is why I want to lend my voice to the effort of communicating the charm and appeal of Koyasan and Kumano to those who do not yet know it.