Aug 13, 2013 - 1 min read

Kayaking in Kumano's Rivers

Having fun in sacred waters is possible

By Virginia Gonzalez

Community writer

Kayaking in the Kumano area is a wonderful experience because of the beauty of the landscape.

We received basic instructions before using the kayaks.

It started raining heavily but the clouds dissipated quickly.

This area of the river, because of its low water level and slow-flowing stream, is perfect for beginners.

The instructor gives kayaking lessons in the Kumano area for both novices and the experienced.

Kayaking was great fun, but we also enjoyed swimming in the water.

We needed a small truck to carry the boats to the river.

This part of the river is also a good spot for fishermen, with whom we shared the water.

We could also practice stand-up paddlesurfing.

After four hours of paddling, the kids were still not tired.

The bank of the river was a good place for sunbathing.

Kumano's rivers, due to their clear and calm waters, are perfect for taking a dip or practicing water sports. During my stay in the Kumano area I had the chance to do some kayaking with a group of people I had met there. We had three kayak boats and two inflatable paddle boards. The children in the group seemed to particularly enjoy the latter. The river trip lasted for about four hours but it felt much briefer. Needless to say, it was real fun. If you get bored in summer in Kumano, it's because you want to!

More details on booking kayaking and other water sports in the area can be found on the Kumano Tourism Bureau website.

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By Virginia Gonzalez

Community writer

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Alena Eckelmann 3 years ago

Kayaking in Kumano is a great experience in summer. In recent years boat rental and English speaking guides have become available.

Frankie L 9 years ago

I'm looking forward to going there.
Can you share some details on how/where were you able to rent these boats ? I'll be with friends in Kumano this summer but boat rental agencies seems to accept fluent japanese speaker only. We'd rather paddle down the river than take a traditionnal "motor" boat.