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UNESCO Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Revitalizes Rural Wakayama

NACHIKATSUURA, JAPAN - JUNE 19: A young couple stands from behind, offering prayers at the main worship altar of the vibrant vermilion-red pavilion at Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama Prefecture, Japan, on June 19, 2026. The view of the Shinto sanctuary, showcasing its meticulously carved gables, gold chrysanthemums emblems, ornate hanging lanterns, and heavy suzu bell ropes, where modern tourists and spiritual pilgrims carry out centuries-old traditions of worship along the UNESCO World Heritage-listed Kii Mountain Range pilgrimage network. (Photo by Artur Widak/NurPhoto)

Photo ID	#13867895
Date Taken	19 June 2026
Location	N/A
Photographer	Artur Widak/NurPhoto
Category	Human Interest
Copyright	© 2026 NurPhoto - Artur Widak/NurPhoto

Full Length Full Body Asia Building Carving Destination Details Facade Historic History Japan Kumano Kodo Kumano Nachi Taisha Lantern Mountain Nachikatsuura Pavilion Pillars Religion Shinto Shrine Sightseeing Spiritual UNESCO Vermilion Wakayama Walking altar ancient architecture back-view bell-ropes close-up couple culture curved-roof decoration devotion eaves entry gold-accents gold-emblem heritage imperial-chrysanthemum landmark ornate outdoor pilgrimage red ritual sacred sanctuary scenery suzu-bells trail wide-angle Kumano Nachi Taisha Grand Shrine Wakayama Prefecture Shinto sanctuary UNESCO World Heritage Kii Mountain Range worship vermilion-red pavilion gables gold chrysanthemums lanterns suzu bell ropes spiritual pilgrims traditions June 19 2026