Nachi Falls & Kumano Nachi Taisha

**Daimon-zaka approach:** Skip the bus parking lot and start at Daimon-zaka (大門坂) — a 1km stone staircase through towering 800-year-old cedar trees, the traditional pilgrimage approach to Nachi Taisha. The path begins at Daimon-zaka bus stop (one stop before Nachi-san). This 30-minute climb is part of the Kumano Kodo trail and provides the most atmospheric arrival — moss-covered stones, filtered sunlight, and spiritual anticipation building with each step. **Photography timing:** The classic pagoda-and-waterfall composition is best photographed mid-morning (9:00-11:00) when sunlight illuminates the waterfall while the pagoda remains in shade, creating balanced exposure. Seiganto-ji Temple charges ¥300 entry, but the photo vantage point is accessible from the temple grounds. A second viewpoint (free) exists along the path to the waterfall base, offering a different angle. After rain, the waterfall's volume triples — spectacular but the plunge pool becomes muddy. **Fire Festival (July 14):** The Nachi-no-Hi Matsuri (Nachi Fire Festival) sees 12 giant torches (6m tall, 50kg each) paraded up the stone stairs to symbolically purify the waterfall kami. This 1,400-year-old ritual is one of Japan's most dramatic fire festivals. Crowds are intense (reserve accommodations 6+ months ahead), but witnessing the torches illuminating the waterfall at night is unforgettable.