JavaScript seems to be disabled in your browser. For the best experience on our site, be sure to turn on Javascript in your browser.
Australian Wilderness & Outback Journeys
Private and luxury journeys to The Kimberley, Kakadu, Arnhem Land, Red Centre, Flinders Ranges, Lake Eyre...
Learn more
Greatest Rail Journeys in Australia
A luxury holiday of a life time on one of the great Australian rail journeys. Rail & Sail, Reef & Rail, Outback & Rail...
Immerse on a transformative awakening with this 8-day walk tracing Japan’s most sacred pilgrimage routes, from Kyoto to Osaka. This journey invites you to stay off the tourist trail and walk in the footsteps of emperors and monks, from the tranquil temples of Koya-san to the UNESCO Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route, immersing yourself in Japan’s profound spiritual heart. Along the way, connect deeply with Japan’s soul-enriching heritage through meaningful encounters with monks and visits to centuries-old sacred sites. This transformative journey promises a spiritual awakening unlike any other.
Your journey begins from the serene ancient capital of Kyoto, where you will venture toward the hallowed Koya-san monastic complex. Here, you will tread the sacred Koya-san Choishi Michi trail, guided by weathered stone signposts through a living cathedral of towering, centuries-old cedars. ...
Your journey begins from the serene ancient capital of Kyoto, where you will venture toward the hallowed Koya-san monastic complex. Here, you will tread the sacred Koya-san Choishi Michi trail, guided by weathered stone signposts through a living cathedral of towering, centuries-old cedars. The pilgrimage unfolds along the legendary Kumano Kodo—one of only two UNESCO World Heritage-listed routes on earth—where you will traverse misty mountain passes and emerald forests to reach the Grand Shrines of Kumano, the profound epicenter of Japan’s spiritual landscape. A moment of transcendent renewal awaits at the ancient waters of Yunomine Onsen, where you are invited to perform a purification ritual in the Tsuboyu bath, the world’s only UNESCO-listed bathhouse. This deeply personal cleansing prepares your spirit for the breathtaking Nachi Taisha, where the majestic Nachi Falls cascade in a scene of unparalleled natural beauty and spiritual power. Your transformative passage finally concludes in the vibrant energy of Osaka, marking the end of a journey that spans the threshold between the divine and the modern.
This package offers 7 nights of accommodation, including a mix of hotels, traditional ryokans, guesthouses, and a unique temple stay on a twin-share basis. To honour the sacred nature of this pilgrimage, your stays at ryokans and the temple include shared bathroom facilities, providing an authentic and communal experience. Meals and transfers are included as specified.
This itinerary offers a personal passage through history, nature, and divinity. We invite you to step into this world of elegance and soul-stirring wonder, where every detail is curated to transcend the ordinary.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
More Info
Read Less
Guests make their own way to Kyoto. Konnichiwa and welcome to the timeless city of Kyoto, Japan. Your journey begins this evening with a private welcome meeting at 6:00 pm.
If you arrive early, take some time to soak in the charm of this historic city. Founded in AD 794 as Heian-kyo, the ‘capital of tranquility and peace,’ Kyoto served as Japan's imperial capital for over 1,000 years before the move to Tokyo. This rich history has blessed the city with over 2,000 stunning temples, shrines, and gardens. After the meeting, enjoy your first taste of authentic Japanese cuisine. As the long-time home of the imperial kitchen, Kyoto is renowned as the heart of Japan’s culinary traditions, promising a truly unforgettable dining experience.
The star hotel is Hotel Gimmond Kyoto, a sanctuary of timeless elegance nestled within the vibrant heart of the ancient capital. You are placed mere steps from the Karasuma Oike station, offering seamless access to the city’s majestic shrines and bustling markets. Surrender to the refined comfort of its unique European-inspired interiors and savour exquisite dining at the on-site restaurant, Bella Rossa, or explore the many acclaimed restaurants just moments from the hotel.
Note: It’s very important that you attend the welcome meeting as we will be collecting insurance details and next of kin information at this time. If you are going to be late, please let your travel agent or hotel reception know. Ask reception or look for a note in the lobby for more information on where the meeting will take place.
Approx. 15km (9 miles), 8 hours hiking
Start your morning with a walk to the historic Shimogamo Shrine, an eighth-century site located where the Kamo and Takano rivers meet. Dedicated to the god of harvest, this shrine plays a key role in purification and agricultural rituals and offers an introduction to Shintoism, Japan's Indigenous belief system that bridges its ancient past with modern culture. Next, visit the famous Ginkaku-ji, or Silver Pavilion, to admire stunning Japanese garden design and explore the principles of Japanese Zen. Afterward, take a short but rewarding hike behind Ginkaku-ji for sweeping views of Kyoto. On your return, stroll along the Philosopher’s Path, lined with beautiful cherry blossom trees, and, if time allows, stop at two nearby Zen temples. Today’s exploration of Buddhism and Shintoism will provide meaningful context for the hiking adventures ahead, so stay engaged!
Approx. 11km (7 miles), 5 hours hiking
A train journey will transport you to Kii-hosokawa Station in the revered Koya-san district, where your pilgrimage through an ancient forest begins. Koya-san, a sacred monastic complex nestled within the serene Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park, stands as one of Japan's most profoundly spiritual sites.
Your trek follows the hallowed Koya-san Choishi Michi trail, a path walked by pilgrims for centuries. Every few hundred metres, you will pass stone signposts, or choishi, weathered by time, that have guided countless souls on their spiritual quest. This is no ordinary walk; it is a moving meditation, a journey through a living cathedral of towering cedars where history and divinity intertwine. Feel the weight of a thousand years of devotion with every step as you make your way towards the magnificent Daimon Gate, a two-storey crimson sentinel that marks the sacred entrance to Koya-san.
As the heart of Shingon Buddhism, Koya-san is steeped in centuries of history. This afternoon, you are invited to immerse yourself in its role as a vibrant, active spiritual centre. Your evening will be an experience of true monastic life, staying in traditional shukubo lodgings. Here, in the tranquillity of a temple, your hosts will serve a shojin ryori dinner—an exquisite Buddhist vegetarian meal that nourishes both body and soul.
Experience a unique stay at Sekishoin, a historic temple lodging in the heart of Koya-san, a site with over a thousand years of history. Relax in traditional Japanese-style rooms with tatami mats and sliding fusuma doors, offering a peaceful retreat from the modern world. Surrounded by ancient gardens and the rhythms of temple life, Sekishoin provides a serene and tranquil atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a meaningful escape.
Note: Today, we will send one piece of luggage to Yunomine for you. You will need a small bag for your overnight stay in Koya-san as you will not have access to your luggage again until Day 4. You will also need to carry this small bag while hiking today. Today’s accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
As the first light of dawn illuminates the temple halls, you are invited to join the resident monks in their rhythmic morning prayers, a soulful awakening before you depart for the ancient waters of Yunomine Onsen. Your private journey will weave through the emerald folds of the Koya-san and Kumano Kodo mountains, where mist clings to the peaks like silk.
You will arrive in Yunomine, a timeless sanctuary tucked into a narrow valley that has served as a vital spiritual waypoint for over 1,800 years. This village is home to the legendary Tsuboyu bath, a small, stone-lined thermal spring that holds the prestigious honour of being the only UNESCO World Heritage-listed bathhouse in the world. For centuries, pilgrims have submerged themselves in its shifting, mineral-rich waters to perform sacred purification rituals, cleansing their spirits before approaching the grand shrines. The day’s exploration continues at the Kumano Hongu Taisha, a magnificent architectural masterpiece and one of the three revered Grand Shrines of the Kumano Kodo. Here, beneath the soaring thatched roofs and amidst the scent of ancient cedar, you will stand at the very epicentre of Japan’s spiritual landscape, where the divine and the natural worlds exist in perfect, breathtaking harmony.
You’ll stay at an intimate ryokan, Yunomineso, perched serenely on a ridge above the Yomuragawa River, moments from the historic Yunomine Onsen village. Surrender to the timeless elegance of its traditional Japanese-style rooms and indulge your senses with exquisite, bespoke seasonal meals that capture the region's essence. Complete your spiritual rejuvenation by immersing yourself in the restorative, high-quality waters of the magnificent indoor and outdoor baths, an exclusive sanctuary crafted for body and soul.
Note: Today’s accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Approx. 13km (8 miles), 6 hours hiking, Elevation gain: 400m (1312 ft)
Start your day early with an unforgettable hike along the historic Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route – one of only two UNESCO World Heritage-listed pilgrimage routes in the world, alongside Spain’s Camino de Santiago. The Kumano Kodo holds deep cultural and spiritual significance, serving as a sacred network of trails used for centuries by pilgrims seeking connection with nature, spirituality, and the divine. Nestled in the Kii Mountain Range of Wakayama, this ancient route weaves through lush forest landscapes, sacred shrines, and serene mountain passes, offering a profound glimpse into Japan’s spiritual heritage. This morning, transfer by bus to Ukegawa, where your hike to Koguchi begins. The journey starts with a 5 km gradual ascent to Hyakken-gura, a peak renowned for its breathtaking views of the mountainous Wakayama region. From there, the trail becomes a mix of gentle ups and downs as you make your way to the Sakura-toge Pass, covering an additional 3.5 km. After the pass, the path descends steadily toward Koguchi, leading you deeper into the tranquil forest, surrounded by towering cedar and cypress trees. These ancient woods add to the magical atmosphere of the trail, providing shade and a sense of calm as you walk in the footsteps of countless pilgrims who have made this journey for over 1,000 years. When you reach the Hyakken-gura peak, pause to take in the sweeping panoramic views of the rugged, mountainous terrain. This awe-inspiring scenery not only highlights the natural beauty of the region but also reflects the spiritual importance of the Kumano Kodo, a path that fosters reflection and harmony with nature.
By the time you arrive in Koguchi, you’ll have experienced a part of Japan’s deeply rooted traditions, walking a trail that symbolizes personal growth, renewal, and a timeless connection to the divine.
You’ll stay at Koguchi Shizen no Ie, a cosy guesthouse located in the heart of the sacred Kumano Kodo. This tranquil retreat offers a unique and intimate experience, embracing the spirit of the pilgrimage. Immerse yourself in the elegance of authentic living as you retreat to traditional Japanese-style rooms, where the bespoke comfort of tatami mats provides a luxurious and profound haven amidst the wilderness.
Note: This morning, your luggage will be transferred to tonight's accommodation, so you'll only need to carry a day pack with you. Today’s accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Prepare your spirit for another day of profound discovery along the sacred Kumano Kodo. Your ascent begins with a challenging climb for around the first 3 hours through emerald canopies, rising over 800 meters as you mirror the arduous physical and spiritual devotions of the pilgrims who came before you. Upon reaching the Echizen-toge Pass, the trail invites you to trace the mist-shrouded ridge of the forest, guiding you toward the summit at the Funami-jaya teahouse. Standing at 868 meters, the highest point of your odyssey, you are invited to gaze upon the horizon and reflect on the transformative power of the path beneath your feet.
The journey then descends toward Nachi Taisha, a sanctuary of unparalleled elegance and one of the three grand Kumano shrines. Here, the spiritual energy of the mountain culminates in the breathtaking sight of the Nachi Falls—a scene that has inspired poets and seekers for millennia. Surrender to the deep sense of accomplishment and the serene atmosphere that envelops this holy site before heading by local bus to the coastal charmKii Katsuura this afternoon. Retreat to the refined comfort of a traditional Japanese-style guesthouse, where the timeless rituals of hospitality provide the perfect sanctuary for renewal and reflection.
You’ll stay at Pal's Inn Katsuura, nestled within the scenic coastal enclave of Kii-Katsuura, which invites you to a world of bespoke tranquillity. Immerse yourself in its rejuvenating open-air hot spring bath, where ethereal steam rises to meet the fresh sea breeze in a symphony of pure relaxation. This serene haven is your exclusive gateway to the region's spiritual treasures, offering a tranquil atmosphere that perfectly complements your pilgrimage journey.
Note: This is a challenging hike, known to locals as a 'body breaking slope'. If you’re not up to the hike today, there's an option to take the local bus to Nachi Falls, explore that area by yourself and meet the group when they get there. Once you start the hike, it will be very difficult to turn back. Your luggage will be transferred to tonight's accommodation, so you'll only need to carry a day pack with you. Today’s accommodation will have shared bathroom facilities.
Start your morning at the local tuna market in Kii Katsuura, where fresh Pacific tuna is traded daily. After exploring the market, board a train and relax as you journey to Osaka. Arriving around lunchtime, you'll join your leader for a walking tour of Dotombori, Osaka's bustling hub for shopping, food, and entertainment. As evening falls, the district comes alive with neon lights and iconic signs like the Glico Running Man and Kani Doraku crab. End your day with a fun night of food, drinks, and maybe even some karaoke!
You’ll stay at Kuretake Inn Osaka Sakaisuji Honmachi. Nestled near the Sakaisuji-Honmachi Station, this sanctuary offers effortless passage to Osaka's vibrant business district and its most enchanting attractions. As your day of exploration concludes, find solace in the hotel's public baths, where you can unwind and rejuvenate amidst serene tranquillity.
As your remarkable journey through Japan concludes, the day is yours to depart at your leisure and make your own way for your onward journey. Should the vibrant allure of Osaka beckon you to linger, we invite you to extend your stay. Simply speak with our booking agent in advance to continue your exploration of this captivating city.
NOTE: This itinerary is provided as an example only – prevailing conditions and local arrangements may cause variation.
- The departure point is Kyoto. Your trip starts at Hotel Gimmond Kyoto 595, Kikkoya-cho, Nakagyo-ku, Kyoto-shi Kyoto. Japan has a very efficient public transport service and there are many ways to get from your hotel to the two international airports in the Kansai region (Kansai International Airport (KIX) or Itami Airport). KIX is about 50km southwest of Osaka and Itami is about 12km northwest.
- The finish point is Osaka. Your trip ends at Kuretake Inn Osaka Sakaisuji Honmachi which is ideally situated in the Sakaisujihonmachi area of Osaka. It takes only 1 min. from Osaka Metro Sakaisujihonmachi Station exit #8. You can take 2 lines of Osaka Metro from the station.
- Major commercial flights provide convenient access to Kyoto. The closest airport to Osaka is Kansai International Airport (KIX), located approximately 50 kilometres (31 miles) southwest of central Osaka. It is the primary international gateway to the region and offers excellent transportation options, including trains, buses, and taxis, to reach the city centre. Another option is Osaka Itami Airport (ITM), which primarily handles domestic flights and is closer to the city, about 15 kilometres (9 miles) away.
Experience how the changing seasons shape your journey through Kyoto, Osaka, and Japan’s sacred landscapes. In spring, cherry blossoms bloom under mild skies, creating a peaceful atmosphere for exploration. Autumn transforms temple gardens with vibrant shades of red and gold, offering some of the best conditions to explore. Summer brings warmth and humidity, highlighting the lush greenery and making early morning strolls feel particularly atmospheric. In the mountains of Koya-san and Kumano Kodo, the air becomes cooler and more refreshing. Winter often covers the area in snow, adding a quiet, serene beauty to the ancient temples and forests.
Please be aware that while travelling during major national holidays (late Apr to early May) and peak seasons in Japan (Apr-May/Sep–Oct) are fascinating and exciting times to travel, there are also some downsides. There will be huge crowds at most tourist attractions and on all public transport. It's common for there to be difficulties in securing train tickets at our usual preferred times, hotels become overbooked, traffic jams and changes to the itinerary without prior notice can be necessary. If you decide to travel during peak periods come with a sense of adventure and flexibility and we are sure that your experience will still be rewarding and memorable. The typhoon season in Japan typically runs from May to October, with the most active months being July and September. During this period, Japan can expect heavy rainfall and strong winds which may result in last minute itinerary changes, particularly to remote trekking areas and routes.
- The active nature of this trip means that the fitter you are, the more you will be able to enjoy it. It is expected that travellers joining this trip will have had some experience hiking before joining this tour. On some hikes you will need to be able to carry your overnight pack on the trail because we will forward your luggage to the next destination. Hiking distances vary from 3 to 15km per day with no more elevation change than 60 to 900 m on one hike.
- The hikes on the Koya-san trail and Kumano Kodo include sections rather than the whole trail, which gives you an experience of the trails without needing to commit to multiple days of strenuous trekking.
- When we aren't hiking on this trip, we primarily use public transport, which is efficient and convenient in Japan. Please pack light and compact as you will be expected to transport your luggage between train stations and to hotels, which can include going up and down multiple flights of stairs in crowded areas.
- Double Rooms: In Japanese hotels can be smaller than you may be used to (e.g. 20 sqm). Every effort will be made to accommodate double room requests. However, during busy periods, there may be occasions when we are unable to offer a double room, so a twin room will be provided.
- Ryokans & Minshuku: In some destinations, you may be staying in a ryokan, which is a Japanese-style inn. Japanese-style accommodation - ryokans or minshukus (traditional inn/guesthouse) involve sleeping on futons or mattresses on tatami mat floors, with bedding often packed away during the day. Attached bathrooms/toilets will usually be very small and many will only have shared bathing facilities with certain hours, or times available for booking at reception. Your leader will explain etiquette involved in using the shared facilities. As this style of accommodation will often not have furniture (ie. chairs or beds) in the rooms, please consider choosing a different trip style in Japan if you have difficulty getting up from the floor or have knee, hip or back issues. Some establishments may have a curfew when travellers need to be back in the accommodation - this is usually around midnight. Please also be aware that you would normally be required to change to slippers when entering into your room in such properties. Extra fees will be charged if dirty marks are left on their beddings or towels that require professional cleaning. Some of such properties will only give 1 key for each room so you can leave the key at the reception so that you and your roommate won't have to conform to the same schedule when you are out exploring.
We like to encourage travellers to visit traditional Japanese 'onsens' while in the country as it is a quintessential local experience. In public onsens this means bathing naked with others of the same gender. While the experience can feel strange at first for some, most of our groups end up enjoying this activity. There is very specific etiquette for visiting onsens - your leader can give you some tips and instructions. Please be aware that travellers with tattoos may not be permitted to enter public onsens. Private onsens may also be available. Talk to your leader for more information.
The Japanese daily diet contains gluten (ie. in flavourings such as soy sauce) and seafood (dashi, or fish stock, is the basis of most dishes, even vegetable ones), so we highly recommend that vegetarians, vegans and coeliacs do their own online research before travelling about some of the options that might be available to them. While our leaders will assist you whenever they can, there may be some included meals that are fixed in advance and not flexible, such as those included at ryokans, and cannot be modified for different diets. For those suffering from particular food allergies, your group leader will endeavor to disclose to their fullest knowledge the main ingredients in dishes being consumed. It is, however, still your personal responsibility to ensure that you do not ingest any foods to which you are allergic.
Onlyluxe Travel acts as travel agency and work with different tour operators.Payment DetailAll pricing is in Australian dollars and are quoted on a per person twin share basis. A supplementary price is available (see below). Bookings are not confirmed until full payment and the signed Booking Form has been received by Onlyluxe Travel.A non-refundable 30% deposit is payable within 7 days of your booking, with the final balance due 120 days prior to departure. If a booking is made 120 days or less before departure, the full payment is payable immediately. Last minute bookings are payable before arrival. Failure to pay on time may result in automatic cancellation of a booking with cancellation penalties payable to Onlyluxe Travel. If you pay by credit card or PayPal a surcharge will be added to the total price.Single SupplementAll accommodation is twin share. Single guests will share with someone of the same gender. If a single room is demanded, a supplementary price of will apply. The supplementary price refers to our quotation and needs to be stipulated at the time of booking.General Cancellation Policies- Outside of 120 days monies will be refunded less 30% of full fee- Within 120 days prior to arrival all monies will be forfeited- No refunds will be given in the event of non-arrival, any unused services or unused nights due to flight or weather disruption- We strongly recommend guests protect themselves with travel insurance and medical insurancePlease Note: Cancellations must be advised in email and will take effect from the date they are received.LiabilityThe participant agrees to indemnify Onlyluxe Travel, and its servant, tour operator and agents, in relation to any liability, loss and damage which the tour operator, or its servants and/or agents may incur as a result of the participants, negligence or misconduct during the tour.Smoking is not permitted on the bus, or in tents or in other accommodation being used by tour operator at the time that a trip is being conducted.Child PolicyPlease consult travel consultant on age limit.Changes to ItinerariesLocal conditions may necessitate changes to sightseeing, walking and driving routes, camping and accommodation locations. While every effort will be made to provide the services and experiences as offered in our brochure, on our website, and in our trip letters, we reserve the right to vary your itinerary. In the event that we are forced to change your arrangements, substitute arrangements of a similar standard will be provided. The tour operator will not be liable where interruptions to itineraries are caused by weather conditions, technical problems to transport used by the tour operator, industrial action, political or civil commotion or other circumstances beyond our control. We refer you to the conditions regarding travel insurance.Changes in PricesWhile we will do its utmost to honour its pricing unforeseen circumstances may mean that prices may be subject to change without notice.Pre-Existing Medical Conditions and Age LimitsYou need to advise Onlyluxe travel and the tour operator on any pre-existing medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability that might reasonably be expected to increase the risk of your requiring medical attention, or that might affect the normal conduct of a trip and the enjoyment of other trip members. Onlyluxe Travel and the tour operator may require an assessment of your medical condition from a qualified medical practitioner. If you fail to adequately notify the tour operator of any pre-existing medical conditions and/or disability, the tour operator reserves the right, at its reasonable discretion, to cancel your participation in a trip at any time, including after the commencement of your trip, with no right of refund if your medical condition, mobility impairment and/or disability could be reasonably expected to affect the normal conduct of the trip and the enjoyment of other trip members.Cancellation by The Tour OperatorThe tour operator is at the mercy of nature in all her beauty and all her fury. The tour operator will under no circumstance knowingly place at risk the health and well-being of our guests and guides. In the case of natural threats, acts of God and the like (e.g. bushfires, impassable snow, etc) the tour operator may need to cancel a tour with very little notice. In some cases, this can occur after the tour has commenced. The tour operator reserves the right to cancel any tour up to 60 days prior to departure if the minimum number requirement is unable to meet for a tour. If the tour operator needs to cancel for any reason, the cost of the tour or any other costs associated with travel to the designated pick up point, overnight accommodation, meals, etc will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore we strongly recommend travel insurance be taken out prior to travel.Force Majeure'Force Majeure' means (without restriction) any event which Onlyluxe Travel or its third party providers could not, even with due care, foresee or avoid. Force Majeure covers events such as, but not limited to, adverse weather conditions, fire and all similar events beyond our control. In the case of Force Majeure Onlyluxe Travel will not accept liability, and reserves the right to change and cancel trips.EvacuationsIn rare circumstances, due to injury or unforeseen illness, the tour operator may need to evacuate you from a remote part of the walk. Helicopter evacuations are expensive and in most cases will be at a cost to the customer.For Australian residents, under the Australian Government Medicare Act, it is prohibited for any domestic travel insurance product to provide any financial reimbursement with regard to ambulance or air ambulance services. We therefore strongly advise our customers to take specific ambulance cover through their health insurance provider. Evacuation cost will not be covered by the Onlyluxe Travel and therefore it is also strongly recommended that our customers take out travel insurance to cover (amongst other things) the costs associated with evacuation.Travel InsuranceIn view of the heavy cancellation penalties applied to cancelled reservations in certain circumstances, we strongly recommends suitable travel insurance be purchased at the time the holding deposit is paid. We recommend insurance cover that covers any loss which may be suffered due to cancellation. We also strongly recommend comprehensive travel insurance against loss of baggage and medical expenses.