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Be spirited away to Japan’s Edo period on this captivating 5-day partially-guided adventure along the historic Nakasendo Trail, once alive with merchants, samurai, and travelers. Your trek culminates at the iconic Usui-toge Pass, followed by blissful relaxation at the serene Hoshinoya Karuizawa retreat. Meander through misty forests, marvel at dramatic mountain vistas, linger in timeless tea houses, and soak in rejuvenating onsens—each step an enchanting blend of history, culture, and nature.
Your adventure begins in Kyoto, followed by your journey to Kiso Valley and eventually to Tsumago. Travel to Nojiri and navigate a trail to the historic Nagiso before transferring to and exploring Kiso-Fukushima. Explore the ancient Torii Pass and visit the post-town of Narai and the stunning Karuizawa. Navigate dense forests, watch out for wild Japanese macaques (snow monkeys), tackle the Usui Pass, and savour regional specialties, including the well-known Kiso Beef and hand-kneaded soba (noodles). Visit a therapeutic hot spring and indulge your taste buds with delicious French cuisine. From Karuizawa Station, board a train to Tokyo, where your trip ends.
At your carefully selected accommodations, unwind in serene hot springs, outdoor baths framed by forest views, and tranquil lounges that offer a peaceful retreat amid the region’s natural beauty. Highlights include Hoshinoya Karuizawa, where you’ll savour delectable dinners and enjoy the renowned Hoshino Onsen just minutes away.
This package includes 4 nights of accommodations in luxury and boutique hotels on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace with partially guided tours
Ichi-go Ichi-e—one encounter, one chance. Own every moment of the journey like it was a story made for you, from the breathtaking scenery to the vibrant people, the delicious food, and the immersive 5-day walking experience.
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.
Venture to the mountainous Hida region of Gifu Prefecture, hike the Japan Alps, and cycle the rustic countryside of Hida Furukawa. This action-packed 3 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".
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.
With 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.
Departure Dates
Departs daily on request
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.
Luggage Transfers
Luggage transfers are included in the package. Please see the itinerary for the details.
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!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 where your will meet your expert guide briefing you the tour 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 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 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.
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.
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.
You will walk to discover traditionally thatched houses in Shirakawa-go, a UNESCO's World Heritage Site.
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.
Pack Free Walk. Luggage transferred daily
In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn on enchanting sections of the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi route weaving through forested mountains and small villages towards the Grand Shrine of Hongu. Spend three nights at Japanese inns in Takahara, Nonaka and Yunomine Onsen areas, and enjoy home-cooked dinners featuring local seasonal ingredients. Your luggage will be transported each day to the next inn so that you can enjoy exploring the world-famous Kumano Kodo, Japan's ancient pilgrimage route on foot independently over 4 days.
The Kumano Kodo is the world's only UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage route besides the Camino de Santiago. Once a sacred pilgrimage reserved for emperors and samurai for over 1200 years, the world-class Kumano Kodo hiking route is today open to all walkers and natural wanderers.
The best accommodation along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is hand picked for this package, with three nights in Japanese style inns/boutique lodges. All rooms have ensuite (private toilet).
Most meals are included for the duration of the walk. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine.
Your luggage will be transported each day to the next accommodation so you only need to carry a daypack to enjoy your daily exploration.
This itinerary focuses on popular walks on the Nakahechi route of the Kumano Kodo over 4 incredible days. Get ready for this unforgettable village-to-village trek.
Departure Dates:
Departs daily year round on request.
Add A Guide
You can choose to have a local guide for your first day. The local guide will explain this significant historical area as well as provide detailed information on the trail and general track advice. You are then well equipped to continue on your way for the remainder of your self-guided walk. Additional cost: $250 per person.
Orientation
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.
- Unlike other operators using traditional Japanese inns/guesthouses that have communal bathrooms and toilets, we offer the best accommodation along the trail. All our rooms have private toilets.
- We arrange daily luggage transfer. Your luggage will be transferred to the next accommodation. You only need to carry a daypack for the walk.