This enchanting journey through Japan combines stunning vigorous walks with timeless tradition. Beginning in the old imperial city of Kyoto and ending in modern Tokyo, our itinerary follows the Nakasendo, a network of ancient trade routes once used to travel from Kyoto via the provincial towns of the Kiso Valley to Tokyo. By way of temples, shrines, and hamlets, you'll take in ethereal landscapes of lush gardens, misty forests and possibly the bloom of cherry blossoms. Along the way, enjoy generous Japanese hospitality in a shukubo (temple lodging) and family-run inns, and the contrasts between old and new in this magical land.
This enchanting journey through Japan combines stunning vigorous walks with timeless tradition. Beginning in the old imperial city of Kyoto and ending in modern Tokyo, our itinerary follows the Nakasendo, a network of ancient trade routes once used to travel from Kyoto via the provincial towns of the Kiso Valley to Tokyo. By way of temples, shrines, and hamlets, you'll take in ethereal landscapes of lush gardens, misty forests and possibly the bloom of cherry blossoms. Along the way, enjoy generous Japanese hospitality in a shukubo (temple lodging) and family-run inns, and the contrasts between old and new in this magical land.
Welcome to Japan! Meet the group at the hotel in Kyoto and convene for a welcome dinner at a restaurant in the city center. With over 1,000 Buddhist temples, sublime gardens, and excellent cuisine, it's easy to see why Kyoto has been voted Travel+Leisure's Best Overall City two years in a row!
Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Meals: Dinner
Explore Kyoto's Magnificent Temples & Gardens
Day 2
This morning transfer to Arashiyama, a beautiful area in northwest Kyoto known for spring cherry blossoms, dramatic autumn foliage, forested mountains and Togetsu-kyo Bridge over the Katsura River. Visit the famous bamboo groves and Tenryu-ji Temple. We'll then have an early lunch before we continue on to Ryoanji to see its famous rock garden. Then, we head to the extraordinary 14th Century Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion - named for its top two stories covered in gold leaf. Explore the Zen Buddhist temple's magnificent Japanese strolling garden and mirror pond before we return to our hotel to freshen up before dinner.
Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Kyoto
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Travel the Scenic Nankai Railway and Follow the Pilgrim's Trail to Mount Koya
Day 3
We travel by train along the scenic Nankai railway line to Mount Koya, a bowl-shaped valley filled with stands of cedar trees 2600 feet up in the mountains of the Kii Peninsula. Since the 9th century, when the priest Kukai (also known as Kobo Daishi) founded the first temple and the shingon sect of Buddhism, Mount Koya has been a place of religious devotion and ceremony. Today there are more than 100 monasteries, many of which have shukubo (temple lodgings). We will visit Kongobu-ji temple and there will be a guided walk through the vast Okuno-in cemetery, with thousands of graves and memorials to feudal lords and other past luminaries before arriving at one of the elegant shukubo (pilgrims' lodgings), run by the monks, and dine on shojin-ryori (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine). Your luggage will be transferred by courier this morning from Kyoto, so you will be without your luggage for two nights, and will need a bag or pack to carry your overnight items.
Accommodation: Shojoshin-in Shukubo-Koyasan
Transportation: 3-hour train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Ride the Train to Nara
Day 4
This morning you will have the opportunity to get up early to join in the Buddhist service at the temple. After breakfast travel onward by funicular and trains to Nara. On a much smaller scale than Kyoto, Nara was established in 710 AD as Japan's capital, and is home to the famous Nara park, where the semi-tame deer roam. We walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a Shinto shrine established in the 8th century. Stone lanterns line the path to the entrance, and inside hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the building. We continue to Mount Wakakusa for a walk that gives us a view of the city.
Accommodation: Hotel Nikko Nara Accommodation: Piazza Hotel Nara
Activity: 2 hours/3 miles hiking
Transportation: 2-hour train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Explore Nara and the Kiso Valley
Day 5
This morning, we visit Todaiji temple - the world's largest wooden building - which houses one of Japan's largest bronze statues of Buddha. We then travel by train to the Kiso Valley, part of the ancient 'Nakasendo' trail passes through the valley, linking Kyoto and Edo (medieval Tokyo). Meaning 'road through the mountains', the Nakasendo has villages known as 'post towns' located along its route. Many of these have been preserved through the effort of the local residents, and we will enjoy the hospitality of villagers who have converted their traditional 'machiya' houses into inns. We arrive at our Japanese style inn on time for dinner. Your luggage transferred from Kyoto will be waiting for you.
Accommodation: Tajimaya Minshuku-Magome, Kiso Valley Accommodation: Hanasarasa Inn
Transportation: 5-hour train and bus transfer
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Discover Magome & Hike a Forested Trail to Tsumago
Day 6
Explore the small town of Magome before walking over Magome Pass (2,625') to the village of Tsumago-juku. The trail rises gently, passing through another small village before reaching Magome Pass and then descending on a mixed paved and dirt trail through forest to Tsumago-juku. This small village has many restored machiya houses lining the main street, and there are small shops selling local crafts as well as snacks such as gohei-mochi, rice paste covered in miso and nut-based sauce. After sightseeing Tsumago, we'll have a short drive to our accommodation.
Accommodation: Daikichi Minshuku-Tsumago Accommodation: Matsushiroya Minshuku-Tsumago Accommodation: Hotel Kisoji
Activity: 3 hours/5.2 miles walking with 1,070' elevation gain & 1,400' elevation loss
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Follow the Old Nakasendo from Tsumago to Nenoue Toge
Day 7
Today you'll continue your journey through the Kiso Valley and along Nakasendo today, walking a forested route from Nagiso to Nenoue Touge. Enjoy the lovely trail along empty country lanes and paths that weave their way beside rice fields and the gardens of village houses. From Nenoue Toge (where the trail turns into paved road) travel by private vehicle to Kiso Fukushima. and stay at a ryokan with its own hot spring. There are more than three thousand named hot springs in Japan, fed by Japan's abundant volcanic activity. Soak your muscles after your hike with a quintessential Japanese onsen experience!
Accommodation: Komanoyu Ryokan-Kiso Fukushima
Activity: 5 hours/8 miles of hiking with 2129' ascent and 750' descent
Transportation: 30-minute or 45-minute train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Climb to Torii Pass & Explore Narai-juku Village
Day 8
After a short train ride to Yabuhara, climb to Torii Pass, with good views over the Kiso Valley. In early spring, snow may dust on the mountaintops, but from mid-April onward the scenery is lush, green forest. Come early afternoon arrive in the well-preserved village of Narai-juku. Your ryokan dates back over 200 years and is typical of the merchant houses that line the village's main street. Take time to explore the atmospheric village, and perhaps try one of the local specialties. Your luggage will be transferred by courier this morning to Tokyo, so you will be without your luggage for one night, and will need a bag or pack to carry your overnight items.
Accommodation: Iseya Ryokan-Narai, Kiso Valley
Activity: 3 hours/4 miles walking with 1,130' elevation gain & 885' elevation loss
Transportation: 45-minute train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Walk the Nakasendo from Narai to Hirasawa, Transfer to Tokyo
Day 9
After breakfast in Narai-juku, set out for a short walk to Hirasawa, renowned for its lacquer-ware artisans. Stop in at a workshop and meet local artisans before transferring to Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, where you'll have free time to explore before dinner at your leisure. The luggage transferred from Day 8 will be waiting for you.
Accommodation: Park Hotel-Tokyo
Activity: 1 hour/1.6 miles walking
Transportation: 3.5-hour train ride
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Tour Tokyo's Top Sights
Day 10
Today's Tokyo tour includes walks around Nihonbashi, the elegant Ginza shopping district, and the Imperial Palace. The contrast of the Imperial Palace's large grounds, deep moat, and historic buildings with downtown Tokyo's modern office buildings reflects Japan's twin identities of modernity and tradition. Continue to Harajuku for lunch and to visit the Meiji Shrine, a beautiful place of quiet reflection located within an evergreen forest. Then walk along the fashionable, tree-lined Omotesando - the Champs-Elysees of Tokyo - to the bustling entertainment area of Shibuya. Return to the hotel before your farewell dinner.
Accommodation: Park Hotel-Tokyo
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Depart from Tokyo
Day 11
Your guide is on hand this morning to help you transfer to Narita Airport for homeward-bound flights.
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.
Atsuko I.
Atsuko was born in Osaka, an old merchant city, and brought up in Kamakura, an ancient capital of samurais. Since childhood she has visited many temples and shrines, which might have fostered her love for Japanese culture. She majored in French at Sophia University in Tokyo and lived in Los Angeles, Bangkok, London and Paris for 11 years because of her husband's work. She loved to talk with locals in these places and enjoyed communication wherever she lived. After coming back to Japan, Atsuko was passionate about introducing Japanese culture to foreign visitors, and worked at Edo-Tokyo Museum as a volunteer guide for 7 years. Now she guides throughout Japan. On each trip, she enjoys communicating with her group members and always tries her best to show the real beauty of Japan and theJapanese way of thinking and living.
Welcome to Japan! Meet the group at the hotel in Kyoto and convene for a welcome dinner at a restaurant in the city center. With over 1,000 Buddhist temples, sublime gardens, and excellent cuisine, it\'s easy to see why Kyoto has been voted Travel+Leisure\'s Best Overall City two years in a row!
This morning transfer to Arashiyama, a beautiful area in northwest Kyoto known for spring cherry blossoms, dramatic autumn foliage, forested mountains and Togetsu-kyo Bridge over the Katsura River. Visit the famous bamboo groves and Tenryu-ji Temple. We\'ll then have an early lunch before we continue on to Ryoanji to see its famous rock garden. Then, we head to the extraordinary 14th Century Kinkaku-ji or Golden Pavilion - named for its top two stories covered in gold leaf. Explore the Zen Buddhist temple\'s magnificent Japanese strolling garden and mirror pond before we return to our hotel to freshen up before dinner.
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This morning you will have the opportunity to get up early to join in the Buddhist service at the temple. After breakfast travel onward by funicular and trains to Nara. On a much smaller scale than Kyoto, Nara was established in 710 AD as Japan\'s capital, and is home to the famous Nara park, where the semi-tame deer roam. We walk to Kasuga Taisha Shrine, a Shinto shrine established in the 8th century. Stone lanterns line the path to the entrance, and inside hundreds of bronze lanterns hang from the building. We continue to Mount Wakakusa for a walk that gives us a view of the city.
This morning, we visit Todaiji temple - the world\'s largest wooden building - which houses one of Japan\'s largest bronze statues of Buddha. We then travel by train to the Kiso Valley, part of the ancient \'Nakasendo\' trail passes through the valley, linking Kyoto and Edo (medieval Tokyo). Meaning \'road through the mountains\', the Nakasendo has villages known as \'post towns\' located along its route. Many of these have been preserved through the effort of the local residents, and we will enjoy the hospitality of villagers who have converted their traditional \'machiya\' houses into inns. We arrive at our Japanese style inn on time for dinner. Your luggage transferred from Kyoto will be waiting for you.
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Today you\'ll continue your journey through the Kiso Valley and along Nakasendo today, walking a forested route from Nagiso to Nenoue Touge. Enjoy the lovely trail along empty country lanes and paths that weave their way beside rice fields and the gardens of village houses. From Nenoue Toge (where the trail turns into paved road) travel by private vehicle to Kiso Fukushima. and stay at a ryokan with its own hot spring. There are more than three thousand named hot springs in Japan, fed by Japan\'s abundant volcanic activity. Soak your muscles after your hike with a quintessential Japanese onsen experience!
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After a short train ride to Yabuhara, climb to Torii Pass, with good views over the Kiso Valley. In early spring, snow may dust on the mountaintops, but from mid-April onward the scenery is lush, green forest. Come early afternoon arrive in the well-preserved village of Narai-juku. Your ryokan dates back over 200 years and is typical of the merchant houses that line the village\'s main street. Take time to explore the atmospheric village, and perhaps try one of the local specialties. Your luggage will be transferred by courier this morning to Tokyo, so you will be without your luggage for one night, and will need a bag or pack to carry your overnight items.
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After breakfast in Narai-juku, set out for a short walk to Hirasawa, renowned for its lacquer-ware artisans. Stop in at a workshop and meet local artisans before transferring to Shinjuku Station in Tokyo, where you\'ll have free time to explore before dinner at your leisure. The luggage transferred from Day 8 will be waiting for you.
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[ActivityHighlight] => You will be walking 1-3 hours and 5-9 miles a day through the Japanese countryside, visiting idyllic villages, ancient temples, traditional inns, and renowned artisanal workshops. Elevations are between 500 and 3,500 feet. You need to be in good health and physical condition for this trip.
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Activity Level
This trip is rated activity level 3. You will be walking 1-3 hours and 5-9 miles a day through the Japanese countryside, visiting idyllic villages, ancient temples, traditional inns, and renowned artisanal workshops. Elevations are between 500 and 3,500 feet. You need to be in good health and physical condition for this trip. Learn more about activity levels here.
Activity Snapshot
Day 4
2 hours/3 miles hiking
Day 6
3 hours/5.2 miles walking with 1,070' elevation gain & 1,400' elevation loss
Day 7
5 hours/8 miles of hiking with 2129' ascent and 750' descent
Day 8
3 hours/4 miles walking with 1,130' elevation gain & 885' elevation loss
Day 9
1 hour/1.6 miles walking
Accommodations
Enjoy stays in traditional ryokans (inns) - many with onsen (hot springs) - and comfortable hotels with modern amenities.
Park Hotel is a luxury hotel ideally located in Shiodome, a bustling center of Tokyo's business and culture. The hotel's art theme is reflected in the 17 artist-designed guest rooms, the various art installations and exhibitions the hotel displays, and the creative cuisine served in its many restaurants. The Park Hotel Tokyo offers traditional Japanese hospitality in a modern setting.
We use two minshuku (guesthouse) in Tsumago: Daikichi and Matsushiroya. Daikichi is a traditional, family-run inn with five tatami-mat guest rooms. The family serves dinner consisting of many small dishes featuring locally grown ingredients. Guests lay out their own futons in the evening and take turns to use the bath privately — and soak in the bathtub made from Kiso cypress.
Matsushiroya is a traditional-style inn established in 1804, offering six tatami-mat guest rooms, several toilets and wash basins, plus two rooms for bathing. Usually one bathing room is used communally by men and one is used communally by women, but depending on occupancy levels, the inn may suggest that guests take turns bathing privately.
Iseya is a traditional minshuku established in 1818. The friendly, family-run inn occupies the original wooden building and a newer annex. There are 10 tatami-mat guest rooms, several guest toilets and wash basins, plus two rooms with Kiso umbrella pine tubs for bathing. Wi-Fi is available in the rooms. Meals are Japanese-style set menus featuring local specialties.
Komanoyu has lovely, big onsen baths with indoor and outdoor sections (separate baths for men and women). Just grab your traditional Japanese towel for modesty and pad down to the bathing space for complete relaxation. Sleep well atop futons in the spacious guest rooms, and enjoy traditional Japanese dishes. Wi-Fi is available in the lobby area.
Shojoshin-in is a shukubo, or lodging, in a Buddhist temple. In fact Shojoshin-in is attached to one of Mount Koya's oldest Buddhist temples! Built as a thatched hut more than 1,150 years ago, today it boasts attractive 150-year-old buildings with 22 guest rooms and two large communal bathing areas — one for men and one for women — with beautiful Hinoki cypress wood bathtubs.
Experience an authentic minshuku at charming Tajimaya. Located in Magome along the Old Nakasendo, Tajimaya offers traditional Japanese-style rooms where guests share all bathroom facilities. The Japanese irori (hearth) is over 100 years old and still in use. Tajimaya's owners serve fresh, local cuisine, and guests can relax in the wooden tubs after a long day's hike.
The Hotel Granvia Kyoto is a four star property easily accessible within the JR Kyoto Station. Its sleek architectural decor is paired with modern amenities in each room, such as complimentary Wi-Fi, electric kettles and flat screen TVs. Guests can choose to relax in the hot tub, wander through the thousands of pieces of art work on the property or walk over to the Kyoto Tower.
Situated in the center of Nara prefecture, Hotel Nikko Nara is a four-star relaxing retreat with a Japanese-style bath house, fitness center, spa and massage facilities. Each room offers complimentary Wi-Fi, a coffee/tea kettle and a flat-screen TV. Dine at one of the hotel's four restaurants featuring European, Chinese, and Japanese cuisine or take short stroll to any of the local restaurants nearby.
A fusion of Japanese and European sleek design, the Piazza Hotel Nara is a short walk from Nara Park and offers many modern amenities, including complimentary Wi-Fi. Watch as chefs cook authentic Teppanyaki-style dishes in front of your table at the live dining restaurant. Afterwards, head over to the hotel's jazz bar for live musical performances or relax with cocktails on the rooftop terrace.
Immerse yourself in nature in this European-style onsen resort surrounded by hot springs water. As one of Japan's largest bathing facilities, take a moment to relax in one of the open-air springs under a starry night to soothe away the miles from your hike. Hotel Kisoji offers spacious rooms in a minimalist style with flat screen TVs and internet access.
Hotel Hanasarasa is located in the Nakatsugawa Onsen area, sitting at the base of Mount Ena. It is close to Magome, gateway to our walk on the Nakasendo Trail. The hotel's baths are onsen baths (mineral hot springs) and the baths in this area are known for their beautifying properties! Adjoining the hotel is a larger onsen facility with a selection of indoor and outdoor hot springs baths and swimming pools. Meals at the facility showcase local cuisine, including river fish and the Hida beef of Gifu prefecture. Rooms are equipped with en suite toilets and other amenities.
Weather
Spring and fall temperatures range from 50°F to the high 70°'s F. In springtime, there is a fair chance of rain.
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
Tokyo
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Tokyo
56
41
66
50
74
59
81
69
71
58
62
49
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
Who will meet me on arrival?
You will make your own way to the limousine bus desk to take a limousine bus to the hotel, where your guide will meet you in the evening for a trip briefing and dinner.
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 3, 4 and 8. Your luggage will be transported by courier to your accommodation on the following day.
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.
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.
What is staying in a ryokan or minshuku 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.
