Route: Tokyo - Nakasendo Way - Kyoto - Shikoku Island - Naoshima - Hiroshima - Kyushu Island - Yakushima Island

A luxury journey from East to West traversing through three of Japan's main islands - Honshu, Shikoku & Kyushu. Combining walks and cultural sightseeings, this comfortable holiday takes in the highlights of the historically and culturally-rich ancient towns of Japan, trekking the ancient trade route of Nakasendo Trail, discovering the picturesque Iya Valley, and hiking on the Yakushima islands where nature has remained untouched for countless millennia. This 15-day/14-night immersion will enthral with its dramatic scenery, awe inspiring scale and depth of history. This truly is the quintessential Japanese experience

The luxurious accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 4 and 5 star hotels and boutique Japanese ryokans.

Most meals are included for the duration of the tour. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine. Please refer to the itinerary for the meal inclusion.

The tour includes 14 nights accommodation, meals as mentioned in the itinerary, English speaking guide(s), all transportation during the tour, all entry tickets/park fees, and luggage transfers.

This is the luxury discovery of Japan's three main islands from Alps to Sea. This incredible journey will inspire with its scale, natural beauty and depth of history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.

The itinerary and price is a guide only. Please contact us for tailor-made itinerary and quote.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

Luggage Transfers

Luggage transfers are included in the package. Please see the itinerary for the details.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

An adventure that feeds your fascination with every landscape, scenery, and activity; experience southern France in all its beauty. Witness the melodies of the cicadas, jagged sage-decorated cliffs, pristine waters, and glamorous beaches. Taste luscious dishes and wines and learn the ways of the French on this 6-day walking adventure from Provence to the French Riviera.

Kick off your exhilarating trip in the spellbinding Aix-en-Provence. Traverse old shepherds' paths through the jagged hills and soak in views over a peaceful reservoir. Admire the striking massif of Mont Sainte-Victoire, which the likes of Cézanne and Picasso have painted. The gorgeous town of Cassis gives you a magnificent welcome to the coast with its unique calanques and tapered coves where crystalline water swishes at the cliffs. Observe the calanques up close on a boat ride to unfrequented swimming spots. Make your way east into the heart of the Riviera, hiking from one hilltop village to the next. Savour a delightful meal in the hidden lanes of Ramatuelle, a Plus Beaux (Most Beautiful) Village of France. Explore the beautiful Tropézienne on foot. Celebrate your exciting week with a mouthwatering meal and one last morning stroll by the sea before bidding goodbye with a shuttle to Nice.

This luxury package includes 5 nights of accommodations in luxury hotels on a twin-share basis. You will be escorted by two support vans and three tour leaders on each departure for an average of 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. With multiple walking options to choose from each day accommodating varied activity levels and giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace. An experience tailored to suit your priorities and personal style; walk in true comfort.

Live your fantasy taking strolls along romantic alleyways, beholding and capturing nature’s blinding allure and savouring a week of luxury in France on this 6-day adventure.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Route: Kyoto - Kumano Kodo - Ise Shima - Osaka

Step into a world of exquisite tranquillity and ancient mysticism as you embark on a luxurious pilgrimage along the legendary Kumano Kodo. This tailored pilgrimage takes you from the spiritual heart of Kyoto to the stunning shores of the Pacific, immersing you in Japan's sacred heritage and breathtaking traditions. Trek the Kumano Kodo, the only UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage route alongside Spain’s Camino de Santiago. Discover the fascinating culture of Ama diving, explore the mountainous Kii Peninsula with its rich pilgrimage history, soak in isolated hot springs, and experience the warmth of countryside hospitality. To elevate your journey, indulge in an unforgettable culinary experience at a Michelin-starred restaurant in Kyoto. This tailored adventure seamlessly blends tradition, nature, and luxury for an unparalleled experience.

Your adventure begins with an opulent stay in a luxury Ryokan, a member of Relais & Châteaux, where you will savour a Michelin-starred culinary experience that sets the tone for the refinement that lies ahead. Departing from Kyoto Station, aboard the Limited Express Kuroshio train, glide along the scenic landscapes of the Kansai region, where verdant hills and glimpses of the shimmering ocean impart a sense of tranquility. Within approximately three hours, you’ll arrive in Kii-Tanabe, the perfect entry point to the revered Kumano Kodo trail. For an extra touch of refinement, consider upgrading to the Green Car class, ensuring a luxurious and restful beginning to your unforgettable trek.

The Kumano Kodo, once reserved for emperors and samurai warriors, now welcome discerning travellers seeking inspiration, connection, and serenity. As you traverse this ancient path, the carefully marked trails guide you through the mountainous Kii Peninsula, where verdant forests meet tranquil villages. Each step transports you closer to Japan’s spiritual core, offering a perfect balance of challenge and reward. Whether it’s the scenic vista at Hyakken-gura along the moderate Kogumotori-goe pass or the captivating endurance of the Ogumotori-goe trail’s ascents and descents, each moment is steeped in awe and wonder.

This indulgent pilgrimage presents the opportunity to visit two of the revered Kumano Grand Shrines, Kumano Hongu Taisha and Kumano Nachi Taisha. These sacred sites encapsulate the tranquillity and reverence that have made the Kumano region a beacon for spiritual seekers for over 1,200 years.

Experience the essence of Japanese hospitality with our hand-picked accommodations along the journey. Stay at Kanamean Nishitomiya in Kyoto, a sophisticated Ryokan that blends timeless elegance with the heart of Japanese hospitality. Unwine at Fujiya Ryokan in Kawayu Onsen or Ryokan Adumaya in Yunomine Onsen, where centuries-old traditions from the Edo era meet the charm of a historic hot spring village. Bask in tranquility at Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima, an exclusive private island retreat surrounded by nature, featuring soothing hot springs and serene views. Conclude your journey at Oyado The Earth, a stunning cliffside Ryokan overlooking the Pacific Ocean, where the sound of waves provides the ultimate backdrop for relaxation. Each stay offers a unique blend of culture, comfort, and rejuvenation.

Throughout the pilgrimage, savour authentic local cuisine prepared with care and passion, offering a sensory exploration of the region. Each meal becomes a highlight, showcasing the flavours and traditions of Kumano’s culinary heritage.

With every detail thoughtfully handled, you’ll enjoy pack-free walk. Your luggage will be seamlessly transported to each destination, leaving you free to carry only a day pack as you explore. Round-trip train tickets and trail transfers are included to ensure seamless transitions along your route.

The Kumano Kodo luxury pilgrimage is not just a walk—it is a curated gateway to Japan’s soul. This is an experience that marries the ancient with the exclusive, the spiritual with the indulgent. Return from this enriching voyage invigorated, inspired, and forever connected to Kumano’s natural beauty and rich history. Elevate your discovery. A once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage awaits.

Kumano Kodo walk can be customised to suit your requirements, e.g. changing guided to self guided.

Orientation for Kumano Kodo Walk

The local staff will give you an orientation of the tour when you arrive at Kii-Tanabe station. The staff will supply you with maps, bus timetables and brief you on your itinerary. The staff will explain cultural elements such as how to use a bath and purchase bus tickets if need be as well as answer any last minute questions.

Dual Pilgrim

This walk is qualified for "Dual Pilgrim". We provide official Dual Pilgrim Credential - a type of passport for pilgrims. It is used to collect stamps along the trail as a record of the walk. There are two sides, one for the Kumano Kodo and one for the Way of St. James.Please read the details in the section of Dual Pilgrim at the bottom of this page.

Why Choose Us

- We provide official English map (the best map).

- We provide official Dual Pilgrim Credential.

- We offer a pre-walk briefing at our local representative’s office.We arrange daily luggage transfer. Your luggage will be transferred to the next accommodation. You only need to carry a daypack for the walk.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Surrender to the seductive appeal of the gorgeous island of Sicily on this 6-day biking adventure, a place where wonders from around the globe form an ostentatious display. Ride and encounter historic sites, witness stupendous vistas, unmatched baroque architecture and artistry, and savour delectable cuisines and world-class wines.

Your incredible adventure begins in Catania, after which we shuttle to the quiet town of Buccheri. Prepare for exciting biking with distant views of Mount Etna. Pedal along quiet roads through the late baroque towns of the impressive Val di Noto. Catch wafts of orange blossom fragrance as you bike past windmills, orchards, and olive groves. Enjoy a dinner of traditional Sicilian cuisine at a local farm. Savour fresh-pressed olive oil at a centuries-old agriturismo, a working farm in a valley of cherry, almond, and citrus trees. Pedal rolling roads to the exceptional Duomo of San Giorgio. With the guidance of our local host, discover ancient cave dwellings that were inhabited until the 1960s. Relish homemade gelato by the sea in Donnalucata. Head into the countryside, along rolling hills, past Greek ruins and small towns—admire archeological treasures. Traverse Origia, Siracusa's mesmerising old city, perusing charming streets and shops. Bike through a marine nature reserve, visit artists' shops and the vibrant local fish market. Take a shuttle back to Catania, where your trip ends.

This luxury package includes 5 nights accommodations in 5 star hotels on a twin-share basis. You will be escorted by two support vans and three tour leaders on each departure for an average 6:1 guest-to-leader ratio. With multiple biking options to choose from each day accommodating varied activity levels and giving you the freedom to enjoy the best of a region at your own pace. An experience tailored to suit your priorities and personal style; bike in true comfort.

Sicily is a haven of unparalleled experiences. Relish it all; traversing interesting landscapes, beholding awe-inspiring scenery, and making unforgettable memories of more than you could have ever imagined.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Experience an otherworldly zen on a fascinating 5-day time travelling adventure on the Kumano Kodo Trail—a symbol of Japan’s glorious past surrounded by nature’s elegance. Tread the path of pilgrims from the mountains to the sea at your pace, visit all three Kumano Grand Shrines, and explore the serene Kumano-gawa River on a traditional cruise—the amazements are never ending!

Kick-off at Kii-Tanabe station with a tour briefing from local staff and take a bus to Takijiri to walk on the Nakahechi trail of the Kumano Kodo route. Dine and rest at Takahara mountain settlement before venturing into its forested trail to arrive at Chikatsuyu, bypassing Oji shrines. Rise in Chikatsuyu the following day and make your own way to Hosshinmon-oji by bus to tour the Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine. Arrive at Yunomine Onsen by bus from Hongu Taisha shrine and repose in a traditional Ryokan inn. Ride a traditional flat-bottom wooden boat on the Kumano River to Shingu, where the Kumano Hayatama Taisha shrine and Kamikura-jinja shrines await your gaze. Visit Daimon-zaka to see the Nachi-shrine temple complex and Nachi Falls, the highest in Japan. Wrap up the trek at Seiganto-ji temple and take a bus to Kii-Katsuura and then to Kyoto or Osaka.

Spend nights of the trips at four choice accommodations: Kiri-no-sato Takahara Lodge, Chikatsuyu Garden House, Ryokan AduMaya, and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Leverage their amenities such as hot spring baths, indoor and outdoor ensuite bathrooms, and relaxing cosy beds with views of surrounding natural beauty. Yield to the temptations of authentic Japanese cuisine.

The adventure package includes 4 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. Luggage transfer services are included. A thoughtfully crafted itinerary tailored to your explorative pace ensures you savour the region's best sights, meals, and sounds.

A trek of a lifetime! Embark on an epic spiritual sojourn along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, a path where samurai and emperors once trod. Learn the rich heritage of the region, savour delectable cuisine and make memories for years to come.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Indulge in the best that the Middle East has to offer on this sky-high itinerary traversing Oman, Dubai and Abu Dhabi. This curated 13 day ultimate luxury itinerary incorporates the very best high end resorts and desert glamping experiences including Anantara Jabal Akhdar Hotel and Desert Nights Camp. Immerse in its rich culture and natural wonders from a dhow fjord cruise, nature desert walk, swim in secluded wadis to hiking remote villages in mountains. From the sea, sand and sail, from Abu Dhabi to Oman, enjoy the serenity and unearth the wonders of the Middle East.

Your adventure begins in Abu Dhabi as you soak in the sunshine at your private island boutique resort. Discover the highlights of the wonderful capital of the Emirates, Abu Dhabi, visiting the Grand Mosque, dining at Vendome and venturing into the traditional date market. Journey to Dubai and retreat at a remote luxury desert resort. Soak in the serene desert life with a wildlife drive over the golden dunes to a nature walk. Leave the desert dunes behind and whisk away into the pristine seas as you explore Khasab. Embark on a relaxing cruise traversing the picturesque fjords in ‘The Norway of Arabia’ on a traditional dhow boat. Discover Muscat city as you marvel at its Grand Mosque to the bustling Muttrah Souq. Unearth and swim in one of Oman’s most charming Wadis, the Wadi Bani Khalid. Voyage to a royal desert retreat for an exclusive overnight desert glamping experience in the 5 star Desert Nights Camp. Explore Nizwa, unveiling its fort for picture-perfect vistas of the surrounding plains. Escape to a mountaintop luxury reateat at Anantara Jabal Akhdar Hotel, iconic for the canyon view platform where Princess Diana once stood. Here, you’ll hike Jabal Akhdar Mountain and discover remote villages and plantations. End your captivating Arbaian adventure in Muscat as you marvel at Omani craftsmanship in Jabreen Castle and explore Misfat Al Abreen, a village built on rocks and surrounded by lush green plantations of date palms.

This luxury package includes 12 nights accommodation in 5 star luxury hotels on a twin share basis. Meals and activities are specified in the itinerary. Transfers, meals and activities with English speaking guide as stated in the itinerary are included.

Immerse into the various shades of beauty the Middle East possesses on this tailor-made luxury Arabian discovery and explore the majestic wonders still around in Oman and The Emirates in opulence and splendour.

Dates or itinerary don't fit? We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points

Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. For 6 days, navigate its diverse wonders and conquer challenges, including traversing the Kogumotori-goe and the formidable Ogomotori-goe passes. Embark on a journey from mountain peaks to the serene sea, encountering the captivating Kumano Nachi Taisha and the thundering Nachi Falls.

Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Your conquest of Nakahechi begins at Takijiri-oji, leading you through mist-kissed Takahara, into the embrace of forested mountains en route to Chikatsuyu, and onwards to the tranquil Tsugizakura-oji. Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, surrounded by breathtaking nature. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation to soothe your tired muscles. Hike the Kogumotori-goe and descend to the tiny village of Koguchi. Brave the challenging Ogumotori-goe Pass, leading to the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.

Seek refuge in thoughtfully selected accommodations for a serene escape. Absorb tranquil atmospheres amidst enchanting panoramas. Indulge in the soothing embrace of traditional Japanese hot springs and savour the enchanting flavours of the freshest seasonal cuisine sourced from the Pacific Ocean.

This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking. 

Grab the perfect opportunity to explore, conquer, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Kumano Kodo. Heed the call of discovery and experience the past of Old Japan on this 6-day adventure.

Note: Bus and train tickets are not included. You can use vending machines to purchase. Estimated total cost for the bus tickets during the tour is 5,400 yen per person.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Embrace the wonders of bush to island paradise in Africa on this 14 days voyage. Turn your dreams of seeing the majestic ‘Big 5’ into reality as you submerge into a luxury South African safari experience combining unrivalled Big Five game viewing and the best safari lodge, Ulusabu, in the privately owned game reserve of Sabi Sands. Extend your dreams to the island haven of Mauritius and savour a slower pace of beach living.

Your adventure begins in the beautiful capital, Cape Town where you’ll uncover legendary icons including Table Mountain, Bo Kaap quarter, Castle of Good Hope, Cape Winelands and more. Your African journey culminates as you tick off more on your African bucket list with a thrilling safari adventure of The Big 5 as you traverse over 13,500 hectares at the privately owned game reserve in Sabi Sands. From thrilling game drives to intimate safari walks with your expert ranger and tracker, spend your days in search for unforgettable wildlife encounters. Balance it with simply indulging in nature at your safari oasis, the opulently rustic Ulusaba Safari Lodge. Fly to Johannesburg and spend the night before a change of pace to an island paradise. Fly to Mauritius for a tranquil 4-day escape of island living at the 5-star Karats Boutique Hotel & Spa. Create your own adventures from snorkeling, kayaking to filling your days with long strolls on the beach, soaking in the sunset and dining at picturesque locations.

ACCOMMODATION PLANS

Our program offers two accommodation plans.

Standard Plan: 5 nights’ stay at the elegant Georgian-Victorian guesthouse, Cape Cadogan, with breakfast included. Tucked in the residential street of Gardens making an ideal city escape with Cape Town at your doorstep. You’ll stay 4 nights at Ulusaba Safari Lodge on a fully inclusive basis including two daily game drives and a daily walking safari for a memorable safari experience.

Luxury Plan: 5 nights’ stay at the award winning five-star boutique hotel, Twelve Apostles Hotel and Spa, with breakfast included. A balance of ocean and mountain escape embraced by the breathtaking Camps Bay and the majestic Table Mountain and Twelve Apostles Mountain Range. You’ll stay 4 nights at Lion Sands River Lodge famous for its record number of leopard spotting and perfectly set right on the banks of the Sabi River. Being entirely private, with only 6 guests to a game viewer, take privilege in a truly intimate safari experience along with two daily game drives, bush walks and other complimentary safari activities on a fully inclusive basis.

This luxury package includes 13 nights accommodation in luxury hotels on a twin share basis. All meals and luggage transfers are covered during this trip. All planned explorations will be in the company of a professional guide.

Expand your horizon and capture the beauty of Africa’s splendours from bush to sea as you combine the best of both relaxation and adventure into the soul of Africa.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys to Red Centre. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. For 6 days, navigate its diverse wonders and conquer challenges, including traversing the Kogumotori-goe and the formidable Ogomotori-goe passes. Embark on a journey from mountain peaks to the serene sea, encountering the captivating Kumano Nachi Taisha and the thundering Nachi Falls.

Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Your conquest of Nakahechi begins at Takijiri-oji, leading you through mist-kissed Takahara, into the embrace of forested mountains en route to Chikatsuyu, and onwards to the tranquil Tsugizakura-oji. Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, surrounded by breathtaking nature. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation to soothe your tired muscles. Hike the Kogumotori-goe and descend to the tiny village of Koguchi. Brave the challenging Ogumotori-goe Pass, leading to the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.

Seek refuge in thoughtfully selected accommodations for a serene escape. Absorb tranquil atmospheres amidst enchanting panoramas. Indulge in the soothing embrace of traditional Japanese hot springs and savour the enchanting flavours of the freshest seasonal cuisine sourced from the Pacific Ocean.

This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis and 5 day private guiding service. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking.  

Grab the perfect opportunity to explore, conquer, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Kumano Kodo. Heed the call of discovery and experience the past of Old Japan on this 6-day adventure.

Note: Bus and train tickets are not included. You can use vending machines to purchase. Estimated total cost for the bus tickets during the tour is 5,400 yen per person.

Dates or itinerary don't fit?  We are specialising in bespoke "tailor-made" luxury or private journeys. Please contact us for a "tailor-made" itinerary for your perfect adventure.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

Succumb to peace, pure euphoria and comfort in a nirvana where a stillness and luxury oasis unite in tented camping at the Four Seasons Tented Camp Golden Triangle. Saturated by the natural atmosphere of Northern Thailand, this splendid camp borders Myanmar and Laos – The Golden Triangle, alongside misty mountains and rivers on its periphery. A retreat here is a lifetime journey into thrilling adventures, ultimate glamping experience, and sublime hospitality. Settle like royalty in plush luxury tents and lodges as accommodation options featuring exclusive viewing decks, outdoor showers, a private infinity pool, ensuite bathrooms, spa treatments, and more. Embark on a pleasant culinary adventure with a blend of Thai, Laotian and Burmese cooking, encompassing western options. Enjoy these cuisines of aggregated cultures across charming backdrops, such as the pavilion, camp peak, and riverside picnic-style in a bamboo forest. Relish a range of spa treatments and relaxation experiences that rejuvenates your body and attunes your soul to the frequency of placidity. Partake in thrilling adventures and excursions off the Golden Triangle's grid, leaving you with cravings. Learn about the elephants, visit the Chang Rai temples, fish with the locals, explore the Golden Triangle where three countries meet, hike in the bamboo jungle and explore jaw-dropping mountain trails.

* The accommodation rating and pricing is a guide only, reviewed by Onlyluxe Travel Experts. Please note that pricing can change at any time. Please contact us for exact pricing and more information.