A 4 day luxury escape to Yakushima. Explore the magical atmosphere of an unspoiled Yakushima on foot and kayak out deep into the emerald-green valley of the Anbo river. Sure to please the senses of the most adept outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this Yakushima tour is brimming with best walking and kayaking experiences and relaxation at the secluded retreat - Sankara Hotel & Spa. Walk to explore Yakushima UNESCO heritage site by day and enjoy world-class fine dining at night. This tour is the best of both worlds - the rustic beauty of the nature that surrounds, and all the comforts of a 5-star hotel.
The tour includes 3 nights accommodation, all meals, English speaking private guide, all transportation, all entry tickets/park fees, and airport or ferry port return transfers.
Combining the best adventures with acclaimed Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, this short escape represents the ultimate in luxury on Yakushima.
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.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
A 5 day luxury escape to Yakushima. Explore the magical atmosphere of an unspoiled Yakushima and hike among its cedars which date back thousands of years. Sure to please the senses of the most adept outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this Yakushima tour is brimming with best walks and time for relaxation at the secluded retreat - Sankara Hotel & Spa. Walk to explore Yakushima UNESCO heritage site by day and enjoy world-class fine dining at night. This tour is the best of both worlds - the rustic beauty of the nature that surrounds, and all the comforts of a 5-star hotel.
The tour includes 4 nights accommodation, all meals, English speaking private guide, all transportation, all entry tickets/park fees, and airport or ferry port return transfers.
Combining the best walking routes with acclaimed Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, this short escape represents the ultimate in luxury on Yakushima.
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.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
A luxury 4 day escape to Yakushima. Explore the magical atmosphere of an unspoiled Yakushima and hike among its cedars which date back thousands of years. Sure to please the senses of the most adept outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers, this Yakushima tour is brimming with best walks and time for relaxation at the secluded retreat - Sankara Hotel & Spa. Walk to explore Yakushima UNESCO heritage site by day and enjoy world-class fine dining at night. This tour is the best of both worlds - the rustic beauty of the nature that surrounds, and all the comforts of a 5-star hotel.
The tour includes 3 nights accommodation, all meals, English speaking private guide, all transportation, all entry tickets/park fees, and airport or ferry port return transfers.
Combining the best walking routes with acclaimed Sankara Hotel & Spa Yakushima, this short escape represents the ultimate in luxury on Yakushima.
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.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
Enjoy a short break that epitomizes the Kamikochi and Japan's Alps experience. With clear skies, spectacular mountains, and bright blue river streams, this 2-day walk offers you some of the best hikes in Japan.
Kamikochi is the crown jewel of the Japanese Alps and one of Japan’s most famous hiking destinations. This high mountain valley is located in the Northern Japan Alps in Chubu Sangaku National Park. The surrounding mountains reach 3,190 m, which creates a stunningly magnificent background with the beautiful aquamarine Azusa River in the foreground. Open only from April to November, the valley is flocked to by nature lovers and hikers.
The crafted two day package incorporates one day walking in Kamikochi valley and one day mountain hiking. Your experienced guide will tailor the walking program to suit your fitness levels. The walking courses cover many scenic spots of Kamikochi and you can take in its unique beauty and stark contrasts.
The package includes two day private guided walks, return transfers to/from Matsumoto, boutique accommodation and all meals.
With stunning mountain views, crystal clear waters, and boutique accommodation, Best of Kamikochi & Alps Walk offers one of the best Japanese Alps hiking experiences.
Departure Dates
Departs daily from May to October 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.
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: Tokyo - Nakasendo Way - Kyoto - Shikoku Island - Naoshima - Hiroshima - Kyushu Island - Yakushima Island
A luxury journey from East to West traversing through three of Japan's main islands - Honshu, Shikoku & Kyushu. Combining walks and cultural sightseeings, this comfortable holiday takes in the highlights of the historically and culturally-rich ancient towns of Japan, trekking the ancient trade route of Nakasendo Trail, discovering the picturesque Iya Valley, and hiking on the Yakushima islands where nature has remained untouched for countless millennia. This 15-day/14-night immersion will enthral with its dramatic scenery, awe inspiring scale and depth of history. This truly is the quintessential Japanese experience
The luxurious accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 4 and 5 star hotels and boutique Japanese ryokans.
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 14 nights accommodation, meals as mentioned in the itinerary, English speaking guide(s), all transportation during the tour, all entry tickets/park fees, and luggage transfers.
This is the luxury discovery of Japan's three main islands from Alps to Sea. This incredible journey will inspire with its scale, natural beauty and depth of history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.
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.
Luggage Transfers
Luggage transfers are included in the package. Please see the itinerary for the details.
This tour is eligible to earn ONLYLUXE reward points.
Route: Tokyo - Matsumoto - Kamikochi - Kiso Valley - Tsumago - Magome - Kiso-Fukushima - Takayama - Kyoto
A delightful journey from Tokyo to Kyoto, walking the best sections of the old Nakasendo Trail, exploring the famous Japan Alps region, 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.
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 opportunity to visit Shirakawago, a UNESCO World Heritage Site famous for its gassho-zukuri farmhouses.
The package also includes one day private guide walk in Tokyo and one day private guided cycling tour in Kyoto.
The classic accommodation is hand picked for this package, including some of the best 4 star hotels and comfortable traditional Japanese inns.
Most meals are included for the duration of the tour. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine. Please refer the itinerary for the meal inclusion.
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 customised travel document.
This is the classic discovery of Japan Alps replete with natural beauty and rich history. 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.
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.
Route: Kyoto - Kumano Kodo - Ise Shima - Osaka
Journey to the world-famous Kumano Kodo on foot from mountain to sea and immerse yourself in one of the most fascinating Japanese sacred traditions of Ama diving. Starting from Kyoto, this fully guided tour is the ideal discovery of the mountainous Kii Peninsula blessed with a rich pilgrimage tradition, isolated hot springs, and welcoming countryside hospitality. Your experiences also include an unforgettable culinary experience at a Michelin star restaurant in Kyoto.
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 Kumano Kodo hiking route is well marked with sign posts. It weaves through the mountainous Kii Peninsula, forested landscapes and occasional villages. This walking journey has a mix of easy, moderate and hard day walks. The moderate Kogumotori-goe -pass rewards trekkers with the amazing view from Hyakken-gura. The Ogumotori-goe is a challenging walk with long ascents and descents, but it's believed to be the most memorable challenge of the Kodo. You'll walk from village to village covering up to 65.5 km and have an opportunity to visit two Grand Shrines (Kumano Hongu Taisha & Kumano Nachi Taisha).
The best accommodation along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route is hand picked for this package, including a luxury Ryokan (a member of Relais & Châteaux member) in Kyoto, a traditional Ryokan run for generations since the Edo era in the picturesque hot-spring village of Yunomine Onsen, a private island hot spring resort and the luxurious Japanese Ryokan sitting along cliffs and overlooking the Pacific Ocean.
All meals are included for the duration of the walk. You will enjoy authentic and delicious local cuisine.
Your luggage will be transported all the way through, so you only need to carry a day pack to enjoy your daily exploration. Round trip train tickets and all transportations (taxi & local bus) during the Kumano Kodo hike are also included.
Luxury Kumano Kodo Mountain to Sea & Ama Divers is the ultimate discovery of Kumano replete with natural beauty and rich history. You'll return invigorated and inspired with memories that will last a lifetime.
Departure Dates:
Departs daily year round on request.
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.
- 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.
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.