Route: Tokyo/Kyoto - Kanazawa - Noto Peninsula - Kyoto

Take up the challenge to explore some of Japan's most spellbinding scenery by bike as you cycle the beautiful Noto Peninsula between Kanazawa and Kyoto. Admire beautiful coastal vistas, rice paddies, charming fishing villages and the many temples of Kyoto over six incredible days of sightseeing as you tackle varied terrain on two wheels.

This unique journey traverses undulating coastal pathways along the Noto Peninsula, the northern half of Ishikawa Prefecture, which extends 100 kilometers into the Sea of Japan. Along the way, visit major attractions such as the beautiful gardens of Kanazawa, the historic morning market in the fishing village of Wajima, the beautiful rice paddies of Senmida and the natural hot spring in Wakura before arriving in the iconic city of Kyoto. Spend your final day discovering the history of Kyoto on a circular cycling route taking in the many temples and historic sites of this extraordinary destination.

Twin share ensuite accommodation is included each night at comfortable three-star lodging along the route (four or five-star accommodation is also available on request). There will be countless opportunities to sample a wide variety of authentic Japanese food during the tour, celebrating the abundant produce of the region.

This fascinating tour includes five nights’ accommodation, five breakfasts and dinners, self-guided cycling (with support vehicle), bike and equipment rental, daily transfers, rail transfers from either Tokyo or Kyoto to Kanazawa at the start of the tour as well as all admission fees for listed attractions on the itinerary.

Head off the beaten track on a once-in-a-lifetime journey along Japan’s unspoiled coastline. Challenge yourself with a cycling tour that will introduce you to an area of awe-inspiring natural beauty and historic charm. Witness iconic Japanese sites and picture postcard landscapes on diverse itinerary full of intrigue and delight.

Departure Dates

Depart 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.

This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points. 

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

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. 

Feel the pulse of nature and a strong connection to the past as you embark on a 5-day hike along the Kumano Kodo, a trail that whispers secrets of ancient Japan. Carve your own way through its core, Nakahechi and conquer the Ogumotori-goe pass, weaving through alluring villages and discovering hidden shrines. Your journey crescendos at the mystical Kumano Nachi Taisha, where the majestic Nachi Falls roars in applause.

Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Traverse evolving landscapes, setting the stage for your pilgrimage in Takijiri. Ascend to the mist-draped Takahara, then explore forested mountains leading to Chikatsuyu. Venture on a trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, immersed in a forested symphony. Continue your venture from Koguchi to Nachisan, conquering the demanding Ogumotori-goe trail. Revel in the breathtaking view at Ogumotorigoe Pass, reaching Nachi-san with its majestic waterfall and sacred shrines. Retreat to Yunomine Onsen (or Kawayu Onsen) and Katsuura Onsen for hot springs, delectable seafood, and an authentic Kaiseki dining experience. Finally, conclude your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.

After each exciting day of exploration, return to your carefully chosen accommodations to unwind—Kiri No-Sato Takahara Lodge, Yunomine Onsen (or Kawayu Onsen)'s traditional Japanese Ryokan, and an accommodation in Katsuura Onsen offering the Pacific Ocean views. Experience the peak serenity surrounded by otherworldly vistas. Immerse yourself in traditional Japanese hot springs and the bewitching flavours of the finest Pacific Ocean-sourced seasonal cuisine.

This adventure includes 4 nights of accommodations in premium destinations 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 taken care and you can focus on walking with a daypack. The walk is qualified for "Dual Pilgrim" & official Dual Pilgrim Credential is provided in the info pack at the pre-walk orientation.

Take part in a bewildering journey that stands as a true testament to the wonders of ancient japan. Embrace the unfolding ethos of Japanese shrines, and revitalise with soothing spring hot springs as you forge a deep connection to the spiritual tapestry of the Kumano Kodo over 5 enchanting days.

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. 

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. 

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.

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.