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.

Departure Dates

Departs daily on request

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

This is a private guided tour from Beppu. Your luggages will be transferred by private car once you arrive at Beppu ferry terminal.

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.