An Inspiring Journey through Japan's Cultural & Spiritual Landscapes
Embark on this immersive journey that contrasts Japan's cityscapes with its spiritual countryside and ancient pilgrimage traditions on the Kii peninsula. Start in Osaka, the bustling business hub that embodies all one expects from modern-day Japan, and end in Kyoto, Japan's former capital for a thousand years and the repository of its cultural heritage. Over the five days in between, hike along the Nakahechi section of the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo, an age-old web of pilgrimage routes. Soak up the spectacular scenery, marvel at sacred shrines, rest in ryokan inns, dine on the freshest local ingredients, and end long days of hiking by relaxing in natural hot springs.
Embark on this immersive journey that contrasts Japan's cityscapes with its spiritual countryside and ancient pilgrimage traditions on the Kii peninsula. Start in Osaka, the bustling business hub that embodies all one expects from modern-day Japan, and end in Kyoto, Japan's former capital for a thousand years and the repository of its cultural heritage. Over the five days in between, hike along the Nakahechi section of the UNESCO-listed Kumano Kodo, an age-old web of pilgrimage routes. Soak up the spectacular scenery, marvel at sacred shrines, rest in ryokan inns, dine on the freshest local ingredients, and end long days of hiking by relaxing in natural hot springs.
Arrive at Osaka airport and join your transfer to the hotel. At 7pm, meet with your Mountain Travel Sobek guide and other tour participants in the hotel lobby for a short orientation, then head to a nearby restaurant for the welcome reception and dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Royal Classic Osaka
Meals: Dinner
Embark on the Kumano Kodo Nakahechi Trail
Day 2
Today enjoy the train ride along the coast of the Kii peninsula to Takijiri, the traditional starting point of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. Embark on the Nakahechi trail, a route that links three of the most important Shinto and Buddhist shrines, along the way dotted with smaller shrines called oji. Finish this first hike at the mountainside Takahara village, whose nickname kiri-no-sato translates to 'village in the mist.' Wrap up the day unwinding in Japanese baths at the ryokan inn.
Accommodation: Organic Hotel Takahara Kiri-no-sato
Activity: 3 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 820' elevation gain
Transportation: 2.5-hour train ride and 40-minute bus journey
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Explore the Mountains Between Takahara & Chikatsuyu
Day 3
Continue eastward along the Nakahechi pilgrimage trail, and dive deeply into the sacred ambiance of hinoki (Japanese cypress), oak and cherry forests. Along the way, spot small bodhisattva statues that honor Jizo, the patron saint of travelers; old cha-ya (tea houses) that provided rest to pilgrims right up until the early 20th century; and find Gyuba-douji, a small stone statue depicting a man riding astride a cow and horse. Descend to the quiet village of Chikatsuyu for a transfer to the inn for dinner.
Accommodation: Organic Hotel Takahara Kiri-no-sato
Activity: 7 miles / 4 hours hiking with 1,150' elevation gain and 1,180' elevation loss
Transportation: 30- to 60-minute private transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Marvel at Hongu Taisha & Explore the Ancient Shugendo Religion
Day 4
From Chikatsuyu, follow the trail up to Nonaka and Tsugizakura-oji, one of the many small shrines along the route. Nobles would rest at these sub-shrines, called oji, to refresh themselves and compose poems. Next, transfer from the Nonaka to Hosshinmon-oji and hike through scenic ridgetop villages to reach Hongu Taisha, This is one of the Three Grand Shrines and is dedicated to Shinto's main deity, the sun goddess Amaterasu. En route, meet a local Shugendo monk to learn about this syncretic faith that draws on multiple spiritual traditions. From there, marvel at the stunning Oyunohara Torii gate, which is one of the largest in the world! The gate marks the spot where the Shinto shrine was originally located and is a scenic and peaceful destination. Transfer to Kawayu Onsen for an overnight stay.
Accommodation: Fujiya Ryokan
Activity: 6 miles/4 hours hiking with 780' elevation gain and loss
Transportation: 1-hour bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Take in Yunomine Onsen & Cruise the Kumano River
Day 5
Soak up the cool shade of the forested Danichi-goe trail that connects Hongu Taisha with Yunomine Onsen, where pilgrims used to perform purification rituals. Take a scenic boat ride on the Kumano River that connects Hongu Taisha to Hayatama Taisha, the second Grand Shrine. Explore its precincts on foot, then take a coastal train journey to the small port and fishing town of Kii Katsuura.
Accommodation: Katsuura Gyoen
Activity: 1.7 miles/1.5 hours hiking with 855' elevation gain and 670' elevation loss
Transportation: 25-minute train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Nachi Taisha & Travel to Kyoto
Day 6
The third Great Shrine awaits today at the top of Daimon-zaka, a cobblestone staircase that runs through cedar forests and bamboo groves up to the majestic sacred landmarks. Admire the Buddhist Seiganto-ji pagoda, poised in front of the mighty Nachi waterfall, then marvel at the Nachi Taisha shrine, a visit that completes the pilgrimage to the Grand Shrines of Kumano. On your afternoon train journey to Kyoto, enjoy a traditional Japanese take-out bento box for lunch.
Accommodation: The General Hotel Kyoto Accommodation: Noku Hotel
Activity: 1 mile/1 hour hiking with 656' elevation gain
Transportation: 4.5-hour train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Roam the Temples of Kyoto & Attend a Tea Ceremony
Day 7
Take a train to Fushimi Inari shrine, dedicated to the Inari spirit, protector of rice cultivation famous for thousands of Torii gates that snake up the mountainside. Next, explore the sights of Kyoto's cultural district of Higashiyama and walk up to the 8th-century Kiyomizu temple to admire city panoramas from its expansive veranda. End on a high note with a ritual tea ceremony, steeped in the ichi-go ichi-e philosophy that deems each encounter unique and inimitable. Take in the mesmerizing streetscapes of Kyoto on the walk back to the hotel, where you'll enjoy farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Noku Hotel
Transportation: 15-minute train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Bid Farewell to Japan
Day 8
On the last day of your tour, transfer to Kansai International Airport or Osaka International Airport (Itami).
Dreaming of an adventure designed exclusively for you? With insider access and decades of experience, our travel experts create custom tailored adventures that are perfect for families, couples, and large groups. MT Sobek's custom adventures are designed to our exacting standards and led by our award-winning adventure guides.
When to start planning? Earlier is always better when designing a custom trip. More time allows for better availability of preferred accommodations, guides and your desired activities. Ideally, start the conversation with us at least 6 months before you want to travel. If you are looking for a custom trip that departs within three months, chances are greatly diminished in securing requested accommodations and the best guides.
*Custom trips require a 25% non-refundable deposit once an itinerary is agreed upon.
The best people to immerse you in a destination are the ones who live there, which is why we feature local Adventure Guides on our trips. Here are a few that you might meet on this adventure.
Tomomi S.
Tomomi was born and raised in Tokyo. After completing her degree in international relations, she studied in the UK and the US. Later she lived in Hawaii and Israel for years and traveled extensively in Europe, the US and Middle East. She now lives in Tokyo, close to its center and loves gardening, walking, cycling and yoga. Tomomi enjoys guiding and sharing her knowledge of both traditional and urban cultures of Japan. Meet Tomomi on MT Sobek's adventures in Japan.
Toshi K.
Toshiyuki was born in Nagano Prefecture, Japan, and grew up in Sekiyama in Niigata Prefecture. His interest in travel became apparent from the very moment he played with a globe as a child and it turned into a life-long passion. After graduating from university in 1978, he moved to Canada and now divides his time between Canada and Japan. Toshiyuki has guided the Nakasendo and Kumano Kodo trails since 2013. He has traveled to over 200 cities in 25 countries in America, Europe, and Asia.
Naomi H.
Naomi earned her master's degree in sports tourism and marketing to complement her travel agency background and expand her knowledge of the tourism industry. During her study, she organized and managed events for international students for the purpose of cross-cultural exchange. In 2014, she passed the national tour guide exam and since then, she has been working as a guide. She is interested in Japanese history, food, culture and sports. Currently, she is studying to be qualified as a Kikisake-shi (Master of Sake).
Arrive at Osaka airport and join your transfer to the hotel. At 7pm, meet with your Mountain Travel Sobek guide and other tour participants in the hotel lobby for a short orientation, then head to a nearby restaurant for the welcome reception and dinner.
Today enjoy the train ride along the coast of the Kii peninsula to Takijiri, the traditional starting point of the ancient Kumano Kodo pilgrimage. Embark on the Nakahechi trail, a route that links three of the most important Shinto and Buddhist shrines, along the way dotted with smaller shrines called oji. Finish this first hike at the mountainside Takahara village, whose nickname kiri-no-sato translates to \'village in the mist.\' Wrap up the day unwinding in Japanese baths at the ryokan inn.
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Continue eastward along the Nakahechi pilgrimage trail, and dive deeply into the sacred ambiance of hinoki (Japanese cypress), oak and cherry forests. Along the way, spot small bodhisattva statues that honor Jizo, the patron saint of travelers; old cha-ya (tea houses) that provided rest to pilgrims right up until the early 20th century; and find Gyuba-douji, a small stone statue depicting a man riding astride a cow and horse. Descend to the quiet village of Chikatsuyu for a transfer to the inn for dinner.
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From Chikatsuyu, follow the trail up to Nonaka and Tsugizakura-oji, one of the many small shrines along the route. Nobles would rest at these sub-shrines, called oji, to refresh themselves and compose poems. Next, transfer from the Nonaka to Hosshinmon-oji and hike through scenic ridgetop villages to reach Hongu Taisha, This is one of the Three Grand Shrines and is dedicated to Shinto\'s main deity, the sun goddess Amaterasu. En route, meet a local Shugendo monk to learn about this syncretic faith that draws on multiple spiritual traditions. From there, marvel at the stunning Oyunohara Torii gate, which is one of the largest in the world! The gate marks the spot where the Shinto shrine was originally located and is a scenic and peaceful destination. Transfer to Kawayu Onsen for an overnight stay.
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Soak up the cool shade of the forested Danichi-goe trail that connects Hongu Taisha with Yunomine Onsen, where pilgrims used to perform purification rituals. Take a scenic boat ride on the Kumano River that connects Hongu Taisha to Hayatama Taisha, the second Grand Shrine. Explore its precincts on foot, then take a coastal train journey to the small port and fishing town of Kii Katsuura.
The third Great Shrine awaits today at the top of Daimon-zaka, a cobblestone staircase that runs through cedar forests and bamboo groves up to the majestic sacred landmarks. Admire the Buddhist Seiganto-ji pagoda, poised in front of the mighty Nachi waterfall, then marvel at the Nachi Taisha shrine, a visit that completes the pilgrimage to the Grand Shrines of Kumano. On your afternoon train journey to Kyoto, enjoy a traditional Japanese take-out bento box for lunch.
Take a train to Fushimi Inari shrine, dedicated to the Inari spirit, protector of rice cultivation famous for thousands of Torii gates that snake up the mountainside. Next, explore the sights of Kyoto\'s cultural district of Higashiyama and walk up to the 8th-century Kiyomizu temple to admire city panoramas from its expansive veranda. End on a high note with a ritual tea ceremony, steeped in the ichi-go ichi-e philosophy that deems each encounter unique and inimitable. Take in the mesmerizing streetscapes of Kyoto on the walk back to the hotel, where you\'ll enjoy farewell dinner.
On the last day of your tour, transfer to Kansai International Airport or Osaka International Airport (Itami).
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. Moderately paced hikes of up to seven miles a day on mostly dirt trails, plus walking during cultural touring and scenic train rides. The route includes some uneven ground and a number of steep ascents and descents. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 2
3 miles/2-3 hours hiking with 820' elevation gain
Day 3
7 miles / 4 hours hiking with 1,150' elevation gain and 1,180' elevation loss
Day 4
6 miles/4 hours hiking with 780' elevation gain and loss
Day 5
1.7 miles/1.5 hours hiking with 855' elevation gain and 670' elevation loss
Day 6
1 mile/1 hour hiking with 656' elevation gain
Accommodations
Stay in traditional ryokans (inns) and unwind in onsen (hot springs) while on the Kumano Kodo, and comfortable hotels with modern amenities in Kyoto and Osaka.
Organically designed and hidden from the hustle and bustle of mainstream Kyoto, the General Kyoto combines architecture, food, communication, and art to create a wonderful accommodation. Emboldening the "creative wealth" of the region, the hotel hosts a phenomenal space installation, the first of its artistic kind in Japan. The rooms are very comfortable, and have evidently been designed with a keen eye for detail in both mind and spirit.
Set inside the historic Osaka Shin-Kabukiza theater building, the Royal Classic Osaka couples a vivid past with Western-style design and contemporary lines. Staying here, you will be in the center of the lively Namba district known for its thriving theater and restaurant scene. The well-appointed rooms come equipped with en-suite facilities, AC, TV and fridge.
Tucked away in the Hatenashi mountain range, Organic Hotel Takahara Kiri-no-Sato showcases breathtaking vistas of the surrounding scenery. This friendly lodge, made of local wood features eight rooms: three Japanese-style tatami rooms and five with twin beds. Along with its restaurant and café/bar, and Wi-Fi throughout, the inn features onsen (hot spring) baths, ideal for soaking in after a long hike.
This traditional Japanese-style inn offers airy interiors and a classic Japanese experience. Its eight minimalist rooms feature exposed-wood detailing and tatami (straw) floors. The inn is located in Kawayu Onsen, which features hot spring bathing opportunities aplenty, from private baths at the inn to bathing in thermal waters which bubble up through the river bed opposite the ryokan.
Katsuura Gyoen offers spacious, comfortable Japanese-style rooms with great views out onto the sea, and boasts both indoor and outdoor baths, each with a view of Nachi Falls in the distance. The inn also boasts a great selection of delicious dishes, prepared using tuna fresh from the morning market, beautifully decorated with locally-sourced seasonal vegetables. The property's 119 rooms are typically Japanese style, with futon bedding and tatami flooring. Basic toiletries are provided in all rooms as is a hair dryer for use, a yukata, slippers, and a tea set. Rooms are also provided with televisions, refrigerator, air conditioning, a small in-room security safe, and a telephone. WiFi is available and free of charge.
Located in a quiet part of Kyoto, the Noku Hotel is just a short walk from the Imperial Palace and easily accessible to the subway station. Experience lavish comfort and luxurious amenities in a warm and welcoming environment that captures the shokunin spirit of Kyoto life. Each room comes equipped with free pajamas, a 40-inch TV, Wi-Fi, a mini bar, and 24-hour front desk service.
Weather
Spring and fall temperatures range from the mid 60°Fs to the high 70°Fs/low 80°Fs. The rainy season in Japan is from mid-June through July. Fall months can be slightly wetter than the spring months.
Mar
Apr
May
Sep
Oct
Nov
Kyoto
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Kyoto
56
38
68
47
77
56
84
67
73
55
63
45
Osaka
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Osaka
57
40
68
50
76
59
84
69
74
58
64
48
Know Before You Book
Meals Many of the inns visited will be smaller, family-run establishments that have limited resources so dining choices might be much simpler for gluten or fish allergies. The inns do offer a wide variety of dishes to enjoy, so you can ask to trade a dish with another companion or leave something you dislike off to the side. Please let us know early if you have any significant dietary restrictions
Sitting on the floor for meals is a long-standing tradition in Japan. You should be comfortable with sitting down and standing up from the floor to fully enjoy this experience. In addition, you will be sleeping on futons, that are rolled out each night in your rooms, and sitting on the floor in your rooms.
Transportation Most of the transfers will involve using public transportation and several different modes of public transport will be used on some days. In addition, we transfer luggage on several nights of the trip, where you will pack your essentials in a small backpack and be without your main luggage for one or more nights.
Accommodation Solo travelers booked into single rooms may be asked to share with a same-gender traveler in the ryokans.
Ryokans and minshuku are traditional Japanese inns that offer a unique and authentic experience and access to off-the-beaten-path locations. However, it is important to keep in mind that these inns are not typically luxurious. They may have tatami mat floors, futon beds, and shared bathing facilities. Ryokans may have private onsen (hot spring) baths, while minshuku may have communal onsen. If you are looking for a luxurious stay, then a ryokan or minshuku may not be the best option for you. However, if you are looking for a unique and authentic experience, and don't mind staying in a more basic accommodation, then a ryokan or minshuku is a great choice.
FAQs
Can you manage food alleries like fish or shellfish?
Fish is a more challenging allergy to manage due to the ubiquitous nature of dashi (fish broth), but we can usually still manage it.
Can I travel to Japan if I'm gluten-free?
Yes, you can, but please let us know as soon as possible so we can manage your request.
What is staying in a ryokan like?
The ryokans vary significantly, but usually have tatami mats for flooring and futon beds that are laid out each night. Baths may be communal and divided by gender.
Who will meet me on arrival for this trip?
You will take a group transfer to the hotel. We will arrange a private transfer for all guests arriving on the same flight.
What days will I be without my luggage during this trip?
You will be without your luggage, carrying only your essentials in your daypack, on days 2 and 5. Your luggage will be transported by courier to your accommodation on the following day.
What is the minimum age for this trip?
The standard minimum age for this trip is 18, but check out our private trip options for families and groups with younger guests.
