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.

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. 

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.

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. 

Pack Free. Best Accommodation

In the footsteps of Emperors, hike inn to inn with a local professional guide 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.

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.

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.

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. 

This itinerary is a perfect extension after Kumano Kodo walking tours. Kumano Kodo walk concludes in Kii-Katsuura. 

Taste a world where every moment is a vivid tapestry of culture, spirituality, and luxury. Embark on an authentic 3-day curated journey through Japan’s enchanting Ise-Shima region, where authentic experiences and timeless traditions blend seamlessly. Experience a curated blend of captivating culture, exquisite cuisine, and profound spirituality while staying in a luxurious Japanese ryokan, Oyado The Earth. Discover Japan through the eyes of a local and create memories that resonate with deep, personal significance.

Your adventure begins in Kii-Katsuura, where a train ride from Kii-Katsuura to Kashikojima sets the stage for a magical sunset cruise on Ago Bay. The next day, a guided walk takes you on the 16 km Anorisaki-Daiosaki trail from Anorisaki Lighthouse, where stunning beaches and dramatic cliffs unfold before you. Finish your hike at Daiosaki Lighthouse and savour a delectable and unique sea BBQ at Ama Hut, prepared by the local Ama divers. Ascend the Ise-Shima Skyline for breathtaking vistas, and explore sacred shrines like Ise Jingu, Futami Okitama Shrine, and the charming Okage Yokocho village. Delight in local cuisine, engage with friendly locals, and capture the region’s beauty one last time before your journey concludes with a transfer at Toba Station.

This luxury package includes two nights accommodation in a luxury Japanese ryokan on a twin-share basis. Oyado The Earth, is your home away from home, an iconic hot spring stay, nestled within the serene Ise Shima National Park. Meals and transfers are included as specified. Enjoy a mix of guided and self-guided experiences ensuring you explore the region in unique ways that best capture the raw Japanese cultural essence.

Forge your own way and immerse in the bare soul of Japan on this invigorating 3-day expedition. Learn its culture through shrine visits and tantalising cuisine and explore its bewildering organic beauty that will leave you wanting more.

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. 

Curated for avid hikers, connect with enlightening spirits as you journey Japan's Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail, carefully selecting the best walks and accommodations along the route in Tokushima, Kagawa and Ehime. Embark on spiritual self-guided walks by day and experience an authentic pilgrimage journey, staying in traditional Minshuku, Ryokan, and Shukubo temple lodging offering delicious regional cuisine and natural hot springs. From dramatic scenery, ancient paths to awe inspiring history; escape to a truly quintessential Japanese experience on this 11 days Shikoku Pilgrimage Trail that will leave you enlightened.

Begin your spiritual journey in Osaka, where you’ll journey by express train to Kyoto city. Spend a day exploring the delights and natural wonders of Japan’s former capital boasting tranquil temples and gardens and traditional teahouses. From Day 3, you begin your ultimate pilgrimage journey beginning with a gentle introduction walk on Shikoku towards 3 of the most captivating temples on the entire trail. From Day 4-10, delve deeper into the ancient Shikoku trail with carefully selected sections of the best and most beautiful walks on the route. Over these days, you’ll hike to discover an array of Buddhist temples, climb the iconic ladder to Kōbō Daishi’s meditation spot and discover quaint villages including Tokushima Prefecture, small Onsen village of Kamiyama, old hot-spring town of Kotohira Spa, Imabari town and more. Your inspiring pilgrimage walk ends in the east of Ehime Prefecture traversing a rural area of Shikoku and the temples set in lovely natural settings. Your journey ends with a train back to Osaka with an overnight stay.

This adventure package includes 10 nights’ accommodation on a twin share basis. All accommodations on your spiritual journey have been handpicked to reflect and fit the authenticity of your pilgrimage; deepen the transcendent connection in a mix of stays from traditional Minshuku, Ryokan, and Shukubo temple lodging.  Ryokan and Minshuku are traditional Japanese-style inns with rooms in Japanese style with tatami (straw) matting and futons. Minshuku are mostly shared toilet and bathing facilities. Shukubo are lodgings in Buddhist temples originally meant for pilgrims where rooms are similar to a Ryokan or Minshuku, though with fewer facilities. In Kyoto and Osaka city, you’ll stay at 4-star hotels. During your hiking days, transfers are either by train, bus and/or a pre-booked and prepaid taxi. Meals are included as specified in the itinerary.

Unite with a transcendent sense of self. Feel and accept spiritual depth on a 11-day journey through enlightening temples and sites to uncover the ancient and peace-imbuing secrets of Japan's ancient Shikoku 88 Pilgrimage Trail.

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

Route: Tokyo - Kiso-Fukushima - Kyoto - Nara - Hiroshima - Miyajima - Koyasan - Osaka

Uncover the secrets of some of Japan’s most iconic locations on a 14 day active tour of Tokyo, Kyoto, Nara, Koyasan and Hiroshima. Spend each day trekking, biking and kayaking among some of the country’s most picturesque landscapes and immersing in an ancient culture, before resting each night in luxurious accommodation.

Embark on a cultural discovery through famous cities, sights and landmarks. This tour begins in Tokyo where you will visit Asakusa, part of Tokyo's old town, which is both the city's oldest Geisha district and home to Tokyo's oldest Buddhist temple; and encounter the Meiji Shrine. From Tokyo, undertake the Nakasendo Trail Walk, past old towns, farms and woodlands; and onward to Kyoto, home to around 2,000 shrines and temples, and the city of Nara. Finally, the city of Hiroshima awaits and, close by, the Seto Inland Sea connects Hiroshima with Miyajima Island. The tour concludes in Japan’s culinary capital, Osaka.

Hotel accommodation has been handpicked to ensure this once-in-a-lifetime journey is a true indulgence. You will also experience a Kazari ryokan, a traditional Japanese-style inn in the Kiso Valley and one night in luxurious temple lodging. Breakfast is included, while most evenings you will be at liberty to make your own dining arrangements.

The tour package includes all accommodation, breakfasts and some lunches and dinners. Transportation and equipment, all guided walking, cycling and kayaking are also included while some optional activities are available at additional cost. The tour commences with transfers from Tokyo airport and concludes at Osaka airport.

Take the ultimate tour of Japan and tick off bucket-list locations as you go. This luxurious itinerary will suit those with a keen interest in the culture of an ancient and beautiful country, who also enjoy an active escape. No two days are the same on this fascinating tour though one of the world’s most intriguing destinations.

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.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

TANIYA, Takayama is an unique stay in the Japan Alps. Resonate with the cultural and ingenious carpentry narrative of the Kusakabe Family that has survived since the 17th century at Tanida-Hida, a rustic and elegant lodge adjacent to the family's residence. A stay at this century-old inn assures you of absolute intimacy with the historic and cultural allure of Hida Takayama whilst enjoying the graceful aura and warmth of the Kusakabe Family Residence. Seek shelter in any of the Japanese or Western-style rooms within the first and second floors, featuring wooden roofs and pillars sandwiched by Hida clay walls, while tatami floor mats and handmade paper finishings make up the interior overall accent. Utilise in-room features such as Wi-Fi services, towels, minibars, all-hinoki bathtubs, air purifiers, humidifiers, in-room safe boxes, bedclothes, and cooking utensils. Relish a delectable Japanese cuisine at the Doma - a spacious earthen floor space with a vaulted ceiling and different beam orientations showcasing the grand artistry of skilled carpenters. Relax in the Japanese tea room with a hot cup of tea or recline outdoors in the soul-serene garden courtyard sprinkled with maple trees. The Kusakabe Family Residence which is also a Folks Craft Museum, serves as a private lounge for guests. Lay back on its soothing light-filled ambiance and enjoy a sweet sensational passage into a realm of unhurried calm. Embark on a wondrous nature pilgrimage into the woods and forests of the Hida region to be gripped by the magnificence of Japan's oldest yew tree and an ambiance sanctified by the mountain air.

* 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.

Be inundated with soul-calming tranquility at this tweaked-by-man, semi-natural wonder, Hoshinoya Kyoto. Nestled along the placid Oi River, and surrounded by verdant, prosperous forests of the Japanese Southern Alps, Hoshinoya Kyoto is a delightful collection of traditional wood-framed buildings from the 19th century that have been lovingly restored to create contemporary idyllic comfort. Peregrinate to the resort on boat, relishing the soothing breeze cleansing your mind and body as a flock of kingfishers fly downstream. This oasis boasts four pavilion types; Tsukihashi, Yamanoha, Tanigausmi and Mizozune, with expansive, commanding views of the green hills, lush vegetation and the Oi River. The pavilions declare the very essence of traditional Japanese architecture. Relax in the Savour of a Rankyo Gorge like the aristocrats of the Heian period, enjoying flavorful, sumptuous specialties organised by world-class culinarians as you victual throughout the day. Carefully curated comestibles and drinks are also available via In-Room Dining, for you, in the privacy of your pavilion. A plethora of activities awaits including summer dinners at the edge of the Oi River, elegant boating, and luxurious solo trips to the forest’s depths. The resort, a fascinating concoction with tinctures of brilliance, is focused on relaxation and appreciation of culture and nature. The Hoshinoya Kyoto is your perfect gateway to exploring the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Forest.

* 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.

Embark on a sensational expedition into the spellbinding sceneries exploring the very best of the Bernese Oberland and Kandersteg in Switzerland, where captivating peaks and geological marvels reign supreme. Across 8 days, unearth elegant blue lakes, snow-capped mountains, gorgeous meadows, spectacular landscapes flanked by colourful alpine flowers on this self-guided walk in the Swiss Alps.

Your self guided walking adventure begins in Kandersteg where you are warmed by a welcome dinner at your cosy family-run hotel. The trek hits the gas the following day with a cable car ride on the Allmenalp to behold lovely meadows. Ascend the Alpbach gorge to meet pastures of cattle rearers and descend to stroll through the serene River Kander back to the hotel. Explore the scenic UNESCO-recognized Gasterntal and Klus Gorge, where waters of the melted glacial flow down into roaring waterfalls. Behold a beautiful Swiss alpine lake, Oeschinensee, and experience it via a gondola lift that takes you to a spot for picnics, fantastic views of the scenery, and chalets for refreshments. Stroll to the nature park of Blausee, a blue lake where you can wander around its lush woodlands and cross a valley into the scintillating walking trail of Nordrampe Bahnwanderweg. Begin a walk into Daubensee and Gemmi Pass with a cable car ride after refreshments at the famous Schwarenbach Hotel. Ride a train to Hohtenn and begin a scenic walk through gorge landscapes and secluded quaint villages on the hill, following the Lotschberger-Sudrampe railway trail. Wrap up your exhilarating voyage in Kandersteg with a return to Zurich via Kandersteg rail.

The adventure package includes 7 nights in the Hotel Alfa Soleil on a twin-share basis. Meals and activities are included specified in the itinerary. This is a self-guided tour offering you the freedom to walk and explore at your own pace in whichever order you choose.

Relish an 8-day Swiss Alps walking expedition, beholding nature's untainted beauty in lakes, gorgeous trails, wildflowers, towering cliffs, and Alp passes while basking in delicious cuisines at your time, your pace.

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.