Kudoyama Trolley Road Hiking & The Last Warlord of the Sengoku Period: A History of Sanada Yukimura

The official name of the trolley path in Kudoyama Town, Wakayama Prefecture, is "Koyasan Forest Railway." Internal combustion locomotives transported trolley cars loaded with lumber from the Koyasan National Forest. Since its opening in 1905 (Meiji 38), the railway operated for more than half a century until 1959 (Showa 34), when part of the Koyasan Toll Road was completed, leading to a complete shift to truck transportation. Today, part of the old railway has been maintained as a hiking trail, making it an easy and pleasant path to walk. As you walk, you can reflect on the history of the railway that once had tracks laid along the route. ※ Due to typhoon damage, the section between Shimokosawa Station and Kudoyama Station is closed, so we will walk along public roads in this area. Additionally, Kudoyama is the place where the Sengoku warlord Sanada Yukimura was exiled along with his father, Masayuki, after the Battle of Sekigahara. Yukimura spent about 14 years here before escaping to Osaka Castle in 1614, where he fought bravely in the Siege of Osaka. The town is home to many historical sites related to the Sanada family, including Sanada-an and the Sanada Museum, allowing us to enjoy a historical stroll. The total hiking distance is approximately 10 km. With historical commentary by Akito, a history enthusiast guide, we will walk at a relaxed pace while exploring the past.