Route: Tokyo - Matsumoto - Kamikochi - Kiso Valley - Tsumago - Magome - Kiso-Fukushima - Takayama - Kyoto
A luxury journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, exploring the 'Alps' of Japan to discover pristine alpine towns filled with history and culture, walking the best sections of the old Nakasendo Trail, and venturing the remote mountainous highland valley Kamikochi. Over 11-days/10-nights, you'll fall under the spell of some of Japan's most spectacular mountain scenery and create memories to treasure. Soak in mountain-side onsens whilst enjoying breath-taking landscapes at every turn.
Japan is a country of mountains. With over seventy-percent of the country being mountainous terrain, it's no wonder that mountains have religious and culture importance to the Japanese. In particular, the Japan Alps region offers stunning views of scenic alpine landscapes.
Starting from Tokyo, you'll walk on the best section of the old Nakasendo Trail for 3 days passing the picturesque Kiso Valley. The village to village walk allows you to visit the exquisitely-preserved villages of Magome and Tsumago, and stay at some of the best hand-picked traditional Japanese inns. Venture into Kamikochi and explore the beautiful highland on foot along Azusa River surrounded by stunning peaks and seasonal foliage. You'll also have an opportunity to visit Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
The package also includes a one day private guided walk in Tokyo and a one day private guided cycling tour in Kyoto.
The luxurious accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 5 star hotels and boutique Japanese ryokans.
You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine. Please refer to the itinerary for meal inclusions.
The tour includes 10 nights accommodation, meals as mentioned in the itinerary, English meet and greet at the airport and return transfers to the airport, transport pass, guided tour in Kyoto and Tokyo and a customised travel document.
This is the luxury discovery of the Japan Alps replete with natural beauty and rich history. A Japan adventure like none other. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.
Departure Dates
Departs daily on request
Luggage Forwarding
Baggage handling is not included in the tour cost, but Japan has a fabulous luggage forwarding service which you can use to send your luggage to your next destination. It will take between 24 and 72 hours to get the luggage to the next point so we recommend preparing an overnight bag when using this service. Luggage can be sent between any two points in Japan and the bell desks or receptions at your hotel will be happy to assist you with arranging this luggage transfer. We can assist you to arrange luggage transfers.
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.
Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. For 6 days, navigate its diverse wonders and conquer challenges, including traversing the Kogumotori-goe and the formidable Ogomotori-goe passes. Embark on a journey from mountain peaks to the serene sea, encountering the captivating Kumano Nachi Taisha and the thundering Nachi Falls.
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Your conquest of Nakahechi begins at Takijiri-oji, leading you through mist-kissed Takahara, into the embrace of forested mountains en route to Chikatsuyu, and onwards to the tranquil Tsugizakura-oji. Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, surrounded by breathtaking nature. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation to soothe your tired muscles. Hike the Kogumotori-goe and descend to the tiny village of Koguchi. Brave the challenging Ogumotori-goe Pass, leading to the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.
Seek refuge in thoughtfully selected accommodations for a serene escape. Absorb tranquil atmospheres amidst enchanting panoramas. Indulge in the soothing embrace of traditional Japanese hot springs and savour the enchanting flavours of the freshest seasonal cuisine sourced from the Pacific Ocean.
This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation 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 included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking.
Grab the perfect opportunity to explore, conquer, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Kumano Kodo. Heed the call of discovery and experience the past of Old Japan on this 6-day adventure.
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.
Delve into the beating heart of an ancient trail that weaves through Japan’s history and present — the Nakahechi segment of the Kumano Kodo. For 6 days, navigate its diverse wonders and conquer challenges, including traversing the Kogumotori-goe and the formidable Ogomotori-goe passes. Embark on a journey from mountain peaks to the serene sea, encountering the captivating Kumano Nachi Taisha and the thundering Nachi Falls.
Set off on an awe-inspiring journey, starting from Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, bound for Kii-Tanabe, the gateway to Kumano Kodo. Your conquest of Nakahechi begins at Takijiri-oji, leading you through mist-kissed Takahara, into the embrace of forested mountains en route to Chikatsuyu, and onwards to the tranquil Tsugizakura-oji. Walk from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, surrounded by breathtaking nature. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation to soothe your tired muscles. Hike the Kogumotori-goe and descend to the tiny village of Koguchi. Brave the challenging Ogumotori-goe Pass, leading to the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and Nachi Falls. End your journey exploring Katsuura Fish Market, witnessing lively tuna auctions, and savouring oceanic delights before travelling back to Kyoto or Osaka.
Seek refuge in thoughtfully selected accommodations for a serene escape. Absorb tranquil atmospheres amidst enchanting panoramas. Indulge in the soothing embrace of traditional Japanese hot springs and savour the enchanting flavours of the freshest seasonal cuisine sourced from the Pacific Ocean.
This adventure includes 5 nights of accommodation on a twin-share basis and 5 day private guiding service. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace. Daily luggage transfer is included and guests only need to carry a day pack for walking.
Grab the perfect opportunity to explore, conquer, and immerse yourself in the timeless allure of the Kumano Kodo. Heed the call of discovery and experience the past of Old Japan on this 6-day adventure.
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.
Step into the ancient allure of Old Japan, where the Kumano Kodo invites you to traverse its storied paths. Forge your way through its heart, Nakahechi, conquering the Ogumotori-goe pass while meandering amid enchanting villages and discovering concealed shrines and waterfalls. Experience the humbling presence of the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and the power of Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall—completing your 5-day adventure of the Kodo’s best wonders from mountain to sea.
Your captivating journey begins in Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, and then head towards Kii-Tanabe, your entrance to the captivating Kumano Kodo. Begin your conquest of Nakahechi at Takijiri-oji. Ascend to the mist-draped Takahara, then explore forested mountains leading to Chikatsuyu and then to Tsugizakura-oji. Venture on a trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, immersed in a forested symphony. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation. Conquer the difficult Ogunmoroti-goe trail, visit the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and see Nachi-San, the tallest waterfall in Japan. End 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's Ryokan, and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Experience 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 accommodation on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace.
Experience an unforgettable pilgrimage through time and tradition. Cherish the memories of enchanting villages, hidden shrines, and the majestic Nachi Falls, each a testament to the rich tapestry of Old Japan. Come along and let the echoes of ancient footsteps linger in your heart.
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.
Step into the ancient allure of Old Japan, where the Kumano Kodo invites you to traverse its storied paths. Forge your way through its heart, Nakahechi, conquering the Ogumotori-goe pass while meandering amid enchanting villages and discovering concealed shrines and waterfalls. Experience the humbling presence of the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and the power of Nachi Falls, Japan’s tallest waterfall—completing your 5-day adventure of the Kodo’s best wonders from mountain to sea.
Your captivating journey begins in Shin-Osaka or Kyoto, and then head towards Kii-Tanabe, your entrance to the captivating Kumano Kodo. Begin your conquest of Nakahechi at Takijiri-oji. Ascend to the mist-draped Takahara, then explore forested mountains leading to Chikatsuyu and then to Tsugizakura-oji. Venture on a trek from Hosshinmon-oji to Kumano Hongu Taisha, one of the Grand shrines of Kumano, immersed in a forested symphony. Relax with a dip in a rejuvenating hot spring at your lovely accommodation. Conquer the difficult Ogunmoroti-goe trail, visit the famous Kumano Nachi Taisha and see Nachi-San, the tallest waterfall in Japan. End 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's Ryokan, and Kumano-Bettei Nakanoshima. Experience 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 accommodation on a twin-share basis. A trip perfectly planned with engaging tour activities to discover the region at a leisurely pace.
Experience an unforgettable pilgrimage through time and tradition. Cherish the memories of enchanting villages, hidden shrines, and the majestic Nachi Falls, each a testament to the rich tapestry of Old Japan. Come along and let the echoes of ancient footsteps linger in your heart.
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.
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.
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.
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 station with a tour briefing from local staff and take a bus 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 by bus 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 and take a bus 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.
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
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.