Alena
My name is Alena and I am originally from East Germany but lived in London, UK for 9 years prior to coming to Japan in 2005. First I lived in Tokyo and worked in market research until I moved, by choice, to the south of the Kii Peninsula in summer 2011. I live right by the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trail in a small village near Hongu Town. I came to live in this remote area to train in the mountain monk tradition called Shugendo. I am a licensed guide for the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails and for the Buddhist monastery of Koyasan. When I am not guiding, then I am writing travel articles. My current passion is Forest Therapy and Buddhist chanting.
Anne-Marie
Hi, I am Anne-Marie, a life and climate action coach and your lead for this pilgrimage. I love to walk and be immersed in the natural world. I have completed two pilgrimages in Japan: Shikoku and Kumano Kodo. They each offer a rich spiritual and natural environment conducive to contemplation, reflection and personal growth.
It’s my pleasure and privilege to lead you on this pilgrimage with Alena, an amazing local guide, in the magical countryside of Japan.