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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.
Leave behind the ordinary and join an eccentric journey that fuses spirituality, adventure, and nature's grandeur in one experience. As you forge your own way on the world-famous Kumano Kodo Trail for 3 days, feel the potent presence of past samurai warriors and emperors—the trail is beyond a pilgrimage route, it's a portal to the past, to enlightenment, and to intimacy with nature.
The trek begins at Kii-Tanabe station with an orientation from local staff, followed by a bus ride to Kawayu Onsen, where you can immerse yourself in the hot spring and relax. Savour a Japanese tantalising cuisine and rest for the night at the Kawayu Onsen Fujiya. Proceed the next day to Hosshinmon-oji to begin the walk on the Kumano Kodo trail. Tour the Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine and all of its marvels before boarding a bus to Katsuura Onsen on the coast. Afterward, be ferried to Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima seaside resort on a private island to enjoy a Kaiseki set menu for dinner and spend the night. Take a ferry back to Katsuura and proceed to Daimon-zaka by bus. Explore the Nachi shrine-temple complex, and walk on the Daimon-zaka slope to behold the stunning Nachi Falls, which is the tallest in Japan. Explore Kumano Nachi Taisha shrine and the 5th-century Seiganto-ji temple before boarding a bus back to Kii-katsuura, and a train to Kyoto/Shin-Osaka, marking the end of the trip.
Recline and enjoy the nights of the trip at two premium accommodations, Kawayu Onsen and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima, along the trail set at the backdrops of fascinating nature. Enjoy Onsen hot springs, ensuite outdoor and indoor baths, themed rooms, and river views. Help yourself to Japanese palatable cuisines, including seafood sourced from the Pacific Ocean.
The adventure includes two nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis, with one night at Kawayu Onsen Fujiya and the other night at Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Luggage transfer services are included and pre-walk orientation is provided. A self-guided walk with a detailed itinerary intentionally curated to give you the best experiences on the trail.
A dignifying spiritual odyssey and nature exploration awaits your arrival on the Kumano Kodo. Stroll along its well-carved paths, savour mouth-watering Japanese cuisine and learn the rich history of Old Japan on this 3-day sojourn into the past.
Note: Bus and train tickets are not included. You can use vending machines to purchase.
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.
Embark on the Iseji Route of the Kumano Kodo for a transformative 5-day pilgrimage that blends spiritual depth with Japan’s stunning landscapes. This semi-guided journey offers the perfect balance of expert support and personal freedom, allowing you to explore sacred paths while connecting with the divine and ancient prayers. Enjoy the wisdom and beauty of the Iseji pilgrimage with the flexibility to immerse yourself fully in its transcendent experience.
Your adventure kicks off in Ise, where you’ll savor a delightful lunch in Okage Yokocho before embarking on a tour of the Ise Grand Shrine and its Inner Sanctuary. Experience the spiritual resonance of a kagura dance dedicated to the gods. Next, journey to Futami Okitama Shrine in Futamiura Park to marvel at the iconic Meoto-iwa (wedded rocks). Hike the tranquil Magose-toge Pass on ancient cobblestones, and return to the serene Oase Seaside View. With a private guide, tackle the stunning Yakiyama-toge Pass. Then, transfer to Odomari Station and set out to conquer the Matsumoto-toge Pass. Discover the dramatic Onigajo (Demon’s Castle) and visit the historic Hana no Iwaya Shrine, one of Japan’s oldest. Take a bus to Daimon-zaka and ascend the 600-meter staircase leading to Kumano Nachi Taisha, one of the revered Kumano grand shrines. Explore Seiganto-ji, a 5th-century Tendai Buddhist temple with ancient charm. Conclude your journey with a bus ride to Kii-Katsuura and a train to Kyoto or Shin-Osaka, marking the end of your unforgettable adventure.
The trip includes 4 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis. Luggage transfer services are included. A mix of private-guided and self-guided walks with a detailed itinerary intentionally curated to give you the best experience on the trail.
Immerse yourself fully in the profound wisdom and beauty of the Iseji pilgrimage, embracing a journey of transcendence where every moment resonates with the profound beauty of nature and the sacred.
Embark on a 15 day 14 night captivating cultural voyage through the breathtaking landscapes of Japan, where you'll explore a captivating blend of vibrant cities and serene coastal villages. Prepare to be enchanted as the Coral Geographer ship carries you on a remarkable journey, unveiling the wonders of Japanese cultural towns, modern architectural marvels, delectable cuisine, and awe-inspiring landmarks.
Your voyage commences in Tokyo, offering you a gateway to immerse yourself in the richness of traditional Japanese culture as you venture into the remote township of Shimizu and visit unique Shinto shrines in Shingu. Indulge in the vibrant ambiance of Osaka, treating your taste buds to fresh and authentic culinary delights, or delve into the captivating tapestry of Kyoto, where modern architecture harmonizes with ancient temples. Traverse the lush mountainous landscape of Iya Valley in remote Tokushima, delve into the traditional history of soy sauce craft in Shodojima, and explore the secrets of the ancient castle in the lesser-explored Karatsu.
Continuing your odyssey, you'll set foot on South Korea's Jeju Island to witness the extraordinary UNESCO-listed Manjanggul lava tubes before venturing into the uncharted beauty of the Goto Islands. Finally, your journey culminates in the vibrant city of Fukuoka. Along the way, you'll be immersed in poignant histories and ancient traditions, unraveling the essence of what makes Japan truly exceptional.
Throughout your expedition, all meals will be meticulously prepared aboard the Coral Geographer by a skilled chef. The voyage spans 15 days 14 nights, ensuring ample time to savor the wonders of Japan on a twin share basis. This extraordinary opportunity presents a once-in-a-lifetime chance to discover the heart of Japan and its authentic cultural beauty.
As you bid farewell to this incredible journey, take with you cherished memories of awe-inspiring landscapes, the warmth of Japanese hospitality, and the deep understanding of a nation steeped in timeless traditions.
A delightful trekking on the Shinetsu Trail in the central alpine region of Japan. Over 6-days/5-nights, you'll walk the best woodland trail in Japan, experience the stunning beauty of Satoyama landscapes, partake in local culture and hospitality, and immerse in the natural beauty and mountain culture of Japan.
Shinetsu Trail is an 80km trek in the central alpine region of Japan that follows the ridge along the Sekida Mountain Range between Nagano and Niigata Prefectures.These passages were used for carrying salt and sea-products from Niigata, and Uchiyama paper and mustard seed oil from Nagano. Today, this area is blessed with a rich ecosystem. It's a pristine and unique woodland trail of beech, maple, birch, larch and cedar that's soft underfoot and gentle on your feet and forms a corridor of green along the path.
The Shinetsu Trail is easily accessed from Tokyo, being about 1hr 45min on the Shinkansen super express train to Iiyama Station. You can also access to Iiyama Station from Nagano. After having enjoyed trekking, you can go to Kyoto and Osaka via Kanazawa by bullet train and limited express.
The package includes a local mountain guide for Day 1, who will equips you with trail information and confidence for your self guided trekking for the rest of the journey.
The delightful accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best local guesthouses and hotels. Relax in onsen baths (hot spring) at the accommodation after each day's adventure.
All meals are included for the duration of the tour. You will enjoy homey meals.
The tour includes 5 nights accommodation, all meals, English orientation and guiding on Day 1, trail transfers and luggage transfer services.
This is the classic discovery of Japan Alps replete with natural beauty and rich history on the unique woodland trail. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.
Departure Dates
Departs daily from the end of June to the end of October on request. Black out: 1-15 August. The best time to walk is early July and September and October
Video of Shin-etsu Trail
An unforgettable winter adventure to mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture and explore some of the rugged beauty of winter season that Japan has to offer. Discover small alpine towns on foot and witness snow blanketing the roofs of beautifully preserved Edo period buildings in Takayama. Be inspired by traditional wooden architectures at the fairytale Shirakawa-go. Ride the Shinhotaka Ropeway for a thrilling snowshoeing. Enjoy “Yukimi-Buro” (soak in the open-air bath seeing snow) and immerse in the majestic vista of Japan's Northern Alps.
Your trip starts from Takayama station, which is easily accessed by train from Tokyo. Hida Takayama is one of the snowiest regions in all of Japan. You will enjoy a guided walk in Takayama, which has one of Japan's most atmospheric and authentic traditional Japanese villages, with Meiji-era inns, hillside shrines and a pretty riverside setting. Due to its well-preserved antiquity, it has earned the title of being Japan's "Little Kyoto".
Shirakawago in winter is a place right out of a fairy tale. You will walk to discover traditionally thatched houses in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO's World Heritage Site. The steep thatched roofs resemble the hands of Buddhist monks pressed together in prayer. The specific shapes of roofs are designed to withstand the large amounts of snow that fall in the region during winter.
Enjoy the pampered comfort of authentic Japanese ryokans, soak in Okuhida Onsen's famous hot spring bath amid the snow and taste the freshest ingredients prepared exquisitely for you.
The package includes four day guiding, return transfers to/from Takayama, boutique accommodation and all meals.
A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan in magical winter season, the Rural Japan Walking, Snowshoeing & Skiing tour is ideal for intrigued skiers and snowboaders looking for immersive and authentic Japanese experiences.
Departs daily on request from December to March.
Venture to the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, hike the Japan Alps, visit the UNESCO-listed Shirakawa-go village and cycle the rustic countryside of Hida Furukawa. This action-packed 4 day adventure allows you to travel down the paths less travelled, and immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural beauty, amazing history, and enchanting culture of Japan. If you're looking for an off-the-beaten-track experience in Japan, this is the tour for you.
Your trip starts from Takayama station, which is easily accessed by train from Tokyo. You will enjoy a guided walk in Takayama, which has one of Japan's most atmospheric and authentic traditional Japanese villages, with Meiji-era inns, hillside shrines and a pretty riverside setting. Due to its well-preserved antiquity, it has earned the title of being Japan's "Little Kyoto".
You will walk to discover traditionally thatched houses in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
No Japan Alps trip would be complete without hiking in Kamikochi, the crown jewel of the Japanese Alps and one of Japan’s most famous hiking destinations, where you'll enjoy clear skies, spectacular mountains, and bright blue river streams.
Enjoy a guided cycling tour exploring a rustic countryside that is blessed with lush greenery and a landscape dotted with farm houses and sprawling rice fields.
Enjoy the pampered comfort of authentic Japanese ryokans, soak in Okuhida Onsen's famous hot spring bath and taste the freshest ingredients prepared exquisitely for you.
The package includes four day guided cycling and walks, return transfers to/from Takayama, boutique accommodation and all meals. You'll also have an opportunity to visit the local market and mingle with locals.
A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, the Japan Alps & Villages Walk & Cycle tour is ideal for intrigued travellers looking for immersive and authentic Japanese experiences.
Departs daily on request
This itinerary is a perfect extension after Kumano Kodo walking tours. Kumano Kodo walk concludes in Kii-Katsuura.
Embark on a journey of discovery in Japan's spiritual heartland with a three-day, two-night walking experience combining Mie Ise Shima with accommodation at an ultimate luxury resort, Amanema. Walk in the footsteps of past generations who have made the pilgrimage here to witness some of the country’s most sacred sites.
The Shima Peninsula is located in central Japan's Mie Prefecture. Beautiful nature, a flourishing fishing industry and delicious local cuisine are just a few of the attractions of a destination steeped in history. Immerse in the culture and traditions of this spiritual region as you take in some of the Ise Jingu's most beautiful and profound locations, including the 3.9 km trail to the summit of Mt Asama and Ise Jingu, or Ise Grand Shrine, considered one of the most sacred sites in Japan with a history dating back to the 3rd century.
Amanemu, a luxury ryokan-inspired retreat, lies on the shores of Ago Bay. Mineral-rich waters from a natural hot spring allow you to discover traditional onsen bathing, with a private bath in each of the immaculate suites and a variety of wellness treatments offered at the onsite spa. Delicious Japanese cuisine embraces local produce, including fresh seafood and the renowned Matsusaka Wagyu beef.
This crafted program includes two nights of supreme luxury accommodation at Amenemu and some of the unique and authentice experiences such as climbing the summit of Mt. Asama, enjoying an excluisve private tour of Ise Jingu Grand Shrine, cruising the Ago Bay at sunset to explore the majestic coast lined with an intricate maze of little islands, and meeting an ama diver and learn more about their unique lifestyle while enjoying a delicious seafood barbecue.
Connect with the sacred energy of an ancient and spiritual destination, rich in historic, cultural and religious significance. Explore ancient shrines and temples, rejuvenate in mineral-rich spring water, dine on the freshest local produce prepared with meticulous care, and enjoy an escape from reality that will stay with you forever.
Enjoy a short break that epitomizes the Kamikochi and Japan's Alps experience. With clear skies, spectacular mountains, and bright blue river streams, this 2-day walk offers you some of the best hikes in Japan.
Kamikochi is the crown jewel of the Japanese Alps and one of Japan’s most famous hiking destinations. This high mountain valley is located in the Northern Japan Alps in Chubu Sangaku National Park. The surrounding mountains reach 3,190 m, which creates a stunningly magnificent background with the beautiful aquamarine Azusa River in the foreground. Open only from April to November, the valley is flocked to by nature lovers and hikers.
The crafted two day package incorporates one day walking in Kamikochi valley and one day mountain hiking. Your experienced guide will tailor the walking program to suit your fitness levels. The walking courses cover many scenic spots of Kamikochi and you can take in its unique beauty and stark contrasts.
The package includes two day private guided walks, return transfers to/from Matsumoto, boutique accommodation and all meals.
With stunning mountain views, crystal clear waters, and boutique accommodation, Best of Kamikochi & Alps Walk offers one of the best Japanese Alps hiking experiences.
Departs daily from May to October on request.
Route: Osaka - Beppu - Mt Kuju - Kurokawa Onsen - Mt Aso - Takachiho Gorge - Gokanosho - Kagoshima - Ibusuki
A ultimate journey from Osaka through the Seto Inland Sea to Kyushu. Traverse the majestic volcanic wonderland of Kyushu from volcano ridgeline to Takachiho Gorge, venture into hidden mountain villages where the first Samurai clan warriors lived secluded, you'll witness some of the world's rarest natural spectacles and enjoy the unique black volcanic sand bathing as well as witness Yokagura folklore dances at the sacred Takachiho shrine. Dine and relax each night at the best hotels/ryokans hand-picked along the route. Exotic scenery, fantastic geothermal wonders, gourmet food, and luxurious accommodation are all in one place on this incredible nine day luxury adventure.
Start your journey from the vibrant neon city of Osaka, ride an overnight ferry through the Inland Sea to Kyushu Island. Our local guide will meet and greet you at the ferry terminal and take you on a remarkable private tour to explore the mighty land of Kyushu. The hand-crafted itinerary incorporates some of the best hikes on Kyushu including:
- Hiking Mt Kuju - one of Japan's "100 famous mountains" and also the highest peak on the island of Kyushu;
- Mt Aso loop walk - Japan's most active volcano and one of the world’s largest caldera volcanoes;
- Takachiho Gorge - walk to its famous waterfall, as well as overhanging rocks and sheer walls, formed over 120,000 years ago by a double volcanic eruption;
- Hiking around Onamiike - the highest crater lake in Japan;
- and trekking in the hidden wooded mountains where some of the "Heike" (the first Samurai clan) lived secluded from the outside world.
You'll have plenty of opportunity to explore the history and culture of the island full of myths and transitions. Watch the sacred Yokagura dances at Takachiho shrine, and visit Japanese houses and mountain villages to mingle with the locals. You'll also have a unique opportunity to enjoy a behind-the-scene exclusive visit of Moritaka Hamono, a world-famous Japanese kitchen knife workshop, who normally doesn’t allow any visitors.
The majestic volcanic wonderland of Kyushu not only creates dramatic landscapes and sceneries, but also offers many high quality onsen hot springs for you to relax after each day's adventure. You'll enjoy relaxing dips in their soothing waters, as well as the unique sensory experience of hot sand bathing where you are buried in black volcanic sand.
The luxurious accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 5 star hotels and boutique Japanese ryokans. You'll be impressive by the natural settings of each accommodation.
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 8 nights accommodation, ferry from Osaka to Kyushu, meals as mentioned in the itinerary, an English speaking private guide, return transfers to the airports, private car touring on Kyushu island, and all tickets.
This is the ultimate luxury discovery of Kyushu and you will be inspired by its scale, natural beauty and depth of history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.
Luggage Transfers
This is a private guided tour from Beppu. Your luggages will be transferred by private car once you arrive at Beppu ferry terminal.