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Japan Shikoku Pilgrimage & Inland Sea Islands Hiking Tour

88 Temple Trail, Naoshima Art & Miyajima Floating Torii


Shikoku, the smallest of Japan's main islands, is also its least visited. Its rugged mountains and secluded river valleys hold a sacred route that encircles the enchanting island. On this journey, you will hike centuries-old forest paths and rural byways on the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage, also known as Henro. Walking alongside white-robed pilgrims in their conical hats, discover 12 of the route's stunning Buddhist temples. Venture into the lush heart of the island to explore Iya Valley's thatched Edo-period houses, magical vine bridges, and traditional hot spring baths. Then island-hop through the Inland Sea, with time spent on Naoshima for marvelous contemporary art and on Miyajima to witness the vermilion "floating" torii at UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine. This is Japan as few travelers experience it. 

12 Days • 11 Nights

Shikoku, the smallest of Japan's main islands, is also its least visited. Its rugged mountains and secluded river valleys hold a sacred route that encircles the enchanting island. On this journey, you will hike centuries-old forest paths and rural byways on the 88-temple Shikoku pilgrimage, also known as Henro. Walking alongside white-robed pilgrims in their conical hats, discover 12 of the route's stunning Buddhist temples. Venture into the lush heart of the island to explore Iya Valley's thatched Edo-period houses, magical vine bridges, and traditional hot spring baths. Then island-hop through the Inland Sea, with time spent on Naoshima for marvelous contemporary art and on Miyajima to witness the vermilion "floating" torii at UNESCO-listed Itsukushima Shrine. This is Japan as few travelers experience it. 

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Hike 5 days on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, walking some of the most captivating sections between atmospheric temples

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Experience both old and new Japan, from Iya Valley’s thatch-roofed houses and vine bridges to Naoshima’s contemporary art

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Highlights


  • Hike 5 days on the Shikoku Pilgrimage, walking some of the most captivating sections between atmospheric temples
  • Experience both old and new Japan, from Iya Valley's thatch-roofed houses and vine bridges to Naoshima's contemporary art
  • Marvel at Shikoku's plunging gorges and cypress forests and capture views of the Inland Sea and "floating" shrine from Mount Misen

Japan Shikoku Pilgrimage & Inland Sea Islands Hiking

Start: Kyoto, Japan  End: Osaka, Japan

Itinerary


  • Arrive in Kyoto

    Day 1

    Welcome to Japan! Meet the group and your guides at your hotel in Kyoto. This evening, stroll the winding cobbled streets of Gion, a district known for its historic charm and enigmatic geisha culture. Marvel at traditional wooden machiya architecture, crafted in minimalist style with latticed windows and sliding doors. Settle in for a sumptuous welcome dinner joined by a maiko (apprentice geisha).

    Accommodation: Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu

    Meals: Dinner

  • Explore Kyoto's Mystical Temples & Ancient Paths

    Day 2

    Immerse yourself in daily life with a typical ride on public transportation—along with your guides, of course—to Nanzen-ji, a serene Zen temple in the Higashiyama foothills. Pause to cross through the towering gate to its beautiful structures and gardens, then follow the Philosopher’s Path, a contemplative ramble along a peaceful cherry tree-lined canal through a quiet Kyoto neighborhood. Time permitting, visit Heian Jingu, a Shinto shrine with a blazing red torii gate. This afternoon, visit To-Ji, a Buddhist temple and UNESCO World Heritage Site. This temple was founded by Kukai (Kobo Daishi)—the monk who established the Shikoku Pilgrimage—and continues to be the headquarters of the Shingon sect of Buddhism. While there, he built the landmark five-story wooden pagoda, the tallest in Kyoto and a symbol of the city. Enjoy dinner at a local restaurant and discuss your plans for the journey to Shikoku Island.

    Accommodation: Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu

    Activity: 8 hours/5-6 miles city walking with negligible elevation gain or loss

    Transportation: Public train, bus, and subway transfers within Kyoto

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Travel to Shikoku & Step onto the 88 Temple Trail

    Day 3

    Depart Kyoto for the coast, then cross a series of bridges across Awaji Island and the bay to Tokushima, the traditional starting point of the Shikoku Henro (pilgrimage). The 750-mile route is centered around the monk Kukai (Kobo Dashi), who was born on the island and later founded the Shingon sect of Buddhism. Walk in the afternoon light, following rural roads linking the first three temples on the route—Ryozen-ji, Gokuraku-ji, and Konsen-ji. Each has its own charms, from weathered pagodas and moss-covered stone paths to lantern-lit halls rich with incense and history. You will walk alongside pilgrims beginning their months-long journey around the island, dressed in white, shaded by conical hats, and carrying distinctive wooden staffs. Mark the start of your hiking adventure with a staff of your own, available at Ryozen-ji, your first stop on the legendary trail.

    Accommodation: Awa Kanko Hotel

    Activity: 2 hours/4 miles walking (negligible ascent and descent)

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Visit Fujii-dera Temple & Climb the Path to Shosan-ji Temple

    Day 4

    After a morning visit to temple 11, Fujii-dera (Wisteria Temple), a collection of atmospheric weathered-wood structures tucked at the base of Mount Shosan-ji, head into the mountains by private van to rejoin the route at Ryusui-an Temple. Hike one of the more challenging sections of the trail, which are known as henro korogashi (pilgrim tumbler). The path winds up stone and log steps through a magical landscape of ferns, moss, and forest. Crest two hills and pass through stands of bamboo and camelias with stone pilgrimage guardians cheering you on to temple 12. Ascend to stunning Shosan-ji (Burning Mountain Temple), perched in a lush grove of cedars. Depending on the weather, the temple may be beautifully enveloped in clouds, or if the sun is out, look outward for a breathtaking view over the valley.

    Accommodation: Hotel Shikinosato

    Activity: 5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,215' elevation gain and 3,315' elevation loss

    Transportation: 1-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Hike from Kakurin-ji to Tairyu-ji & Journey to the Iya Valley

    Day 5

    Start the day at temple 20, Kakurin-ji (Crane Forest Temple), immersed in ancient cedar, hinoki, and pine trees. Walk through the mountaintop temple’s impressive gate to gaze up a rare three-storied pagoda before starting your hike for the day, another challenging henro korogashi. Walk along narrow paved paths and rock staircases through endless shades of green, descending to curving Naka River. Now it’s time to climb! Trace a burbling brook through towering groves, climbing the last section on log steps. At temple 21, Tairyu-ji (Great Dragon Temple), the scent of burning incense wafts below intricately carved woodwork. Ride down the mountain by cable car, gliding over the cedar canopy with views out to the sea. Meet your waiting vehicle and travel into remote Iya Valley, soaking in outdoor hot spring baths at your onsen hotel this evening.

    Accommodation: Hikyonoyu

    Activity: 3 hours/5 miles hiking with 1,510' elevation gain and 1,540' elevation loss

    Transportation: 3-hours private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Marvel at Ancient Vine Bridges & Explore Traditional Villages in Iya Valley

    Day 6

    This morning, set off into the mountains and gorges of Iya, a place where little has changed over the centuries. Walk across two massive vine bridges (kazurabashi) spanning the river valley, said to have been built by exiled samurai in the 12th century. Peer down at the rushing river below and stunning valley on either side, as the bridge gently sways, the knotted vines securely lashed to hardwood beams—a thrilling look into the region’s past. Visit one of the oldest farmhouses in the valley, its thick thatched roof and dark pine floors have endured for 300 years, preserving the tradition of rural Japanese architecture through the Chiiori Trust. Explore the small village of Ochiai, guided by members of this traditional community. This evening, relax in the thermal waters at your hotel and complete your day of Japanese traditions with a delicious dinner of local dishes.

    Accommodation: Hikyonoyu

    Activity: 4 hours/4 miles walking with 500' elevation gain & 500' elevation loss

    Transportation: 2-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Walk a Three-Temple Trail into the Goshikidai Mountains

    Day 7

    Start the day with a drive through the countryside to reconnect with the pilgrimage trail. Begin at magnificent temple 80, Kokubun-ji. Have a look at its legendary bell, then follow a sloping path through dense forest and ascend log stairs to the peak of Mount Shiromine. Discover beautiful architecture at temple 81, Shiromine-ji (White Peak Temple), surrounded by maple trees. Descend back into the forest, walking on rock and dirt trails to the lantern-filled halls of temple 82, Negoro-ji (Fragrant Root Temple), on the slopes of Mount Aomine. Drive to Kotohira, a delightful onsen town known for its large Shinto shrine dedicated to sailors and seafaring, Kompira-san. Settle into your inn and soothe any sore muscles at the onsen baths.

    Accommodation: Onyado Shikishimakan

    Activity: 5 hours/8.4 miles hiking with 2,150' elevation gain and 1,100' elevation loss

    Transportation: 3-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Follow the Path Between the Pilgrimage's Final Two Temples?

    Day 8

    After breakfast, begin your final day of walking on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Begin with a visit to temple 87, Nagao-ji (Long Tail Temple), tucked into a suburban neighborhood and the penultimate temple for pilgrims. Drive to the Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage Exchange Salon, then hike the final leg of the pilgrimage to temple 88, Okubo-ji (Great Hollow Temple), on the slopes of Nyotai-san Mountain. You can feel the emotion as the journey nears its goal on this last ascent. As the final stop on the pilgrimage, wooden staffs are traditionally discarded at the understated temple to mark the completion of the journey. Celebrate your achievement together before leaving the trail for the coastal city of Takamatsu.

    Accommodation: Royal Park Hotel, Takamatsu

    Activity: 3-4 hours/6.8 miles hiking with 1,765' elevation gain and 826' elevation loss

    Transportation: 1.5-hour private van transfer

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Explore the Art Island of Naoshima & Travel to Hiroshima

    Day 9

    Depart Shikoku by ferry for Naoshima island, an art-filled jewel in the picturesque Inland Sea. Visit a museum that is a work of art in itself. Designed to minimize its impact on the island’s natural beauty, it was ingeniously constructed underground in such a way that the interior is illuminated with natural light, which changes color and angle according to the hour and season. Works by artists such as Claude Monet and James Turrell can be experienced in this unusual space. Next, get outdoors to view installations and sculptures, including Yayoi Kusama’s celebrated Pumpkin, set on a pier with the Inland Sea as a striking backdrop. Discover unoccupied homes, now reimagined as works of art through the Art House Project. At the end of the day, hop on a ferry to Honshu and drive to Okayama where you’ll board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima and check into your hotel.

    Accommodation: Hotel Granvia Hiroshima

    Activity: 4 hours/5 miles walking with 300' elevation gain & 300' elevation loss

    Transportation: 50-minute ferry, 20-minute ferry 1-hour private van transfer 40-minute bullet train ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch

  • Witness the Floating Itsukushima Shrine

    Day 10

    This morning the ferry takes you back onto the Inland Sea to the photogenic shores of Miyajima Island, a sacred Shinto site since the 6th century. Visit Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed as an excellent example of the Japanese standard of beauty, harmoniously combining architecture with nature—in this case both sea and mountains. Built over the water on stilts, the Shinto shrine features elegant wooden pavilions connected by boardwalks, designed to appear as if floating during high tide. Its iconic vermillion torii gate rises dramatically from the sea, framing the forested mountains beyond. Spend tonight on the island.

    Accommodation: Itsukushima Iroha

    Activity: 3 hours/3 miles walking with 300' elevation gain & 300' elevation loss

    Transportation: 30-minute private van transfer, 30-minute ferry ride

    Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

  • Summit Miyajima's Mount Misen for Inland Sea Views

    Day 11

    Awake for another day on this gorgeous island. Head out on the trails, first stopping at Buddhist Daisho-in temple. Although Miyajima is known for its Shinto shrine, Mount Misen is also a place where Kukai (Kobo Daishi)—who the Shikoku pilgrimage is dedicated to—practiced Buddhism. Ascend into the hills, walking through enchanting old growth groves with chances to see the resident spotted deer or—if you are very lucky—monkeys. After a final steep climb, reach the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of inland sea islands, forested ridges, and down over the Itsukushima Shrine. Return to the base of the mountain by gondola and gather for a celebratory farewell dinner.

    Accommodation: Itsukushima Iroha

    Activity: 3 hours/3 miles hiking with 1,700' elevation gain

    Transportation: 20-minute gondola ride down from Mount Misen

    Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner

  • Depart from Hiroshima

    Day 12

    Rise early to catch the morning ferry from Miyajima to Hiroshima. Board the Shinkansen to Osaka and transfer to Kansai International Airport for flights home, or continue by train to Kyoto to continue your Japan journey independently.

    Activity: 30-minute ferry ride, 30-minute private van transfer 1.5-hour train ride

    Meals: Breakfast

Why Travel With Us?


  • MT Sobek has been operating award-winning adventures in Asia since 1969, crafting a wide choice of exciting hiking and cultural journeys.
  • This exclusive MT Sobek Shikoku Pilgrimage adventure includes explorations into lush Iya Valley and culturally rich Inland Sea islands.   
  • Our expert local guides provide an immersive experience, deepening your understanding of Japanese history, traditions, and current culture. 

Know Before You Book


Meals
Meals are usually Japanese cuisine, including many breakfasts, and seating is often on cushions on the floor. We're not able to arrange 100% fish-free or 100% gluten-free meals.

Transportation
Most of your transportation will be by private van, with transportation between islands by shared public ferry. In Kyoto you will get to experience a slice of daily life, riding public transportation with your guides.

Accommodation
6 nights are at traditional Japanese inns known as ryokans. All have ensuite private bathrooms, and just 2 nights of the trip involve futon beds. At hotels, most rooms have two beds rather than one double bed. Solo travelers who have a single room at hotels may be asked to share a room with a same-gender traveler at the ryokans.

Dates & Prices


  • 2026
  • Go Custom
  • Inclusions

2026

Scheduled Dates


Price is per person, double occupancy in USD.

The earlier you book, the more choice of available dates you’ll have and once you book, your price is guaranteed.

Go Custom

Create Your Very Own Adventure


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.

Start Planning

Inclusions

Price Includes


  • Expertise and services of our experienced adventure guides
  • All accommodations as noted in the itinerary
  • All breakfasts, almost all lunches and dinners as noted in the itinerary
  • Snacks and water between meals
  • Additional regional guides and experts on many trips
  • Comprehensive Trip Planner with detailed pre-trip information
  • Private guided tours at historic sites, museums, wineries and other select attractions as noted in the itinerary
  • Special events and other select attractions as mentioned in the itinerary
  • All gratuities at hotels and restaurants
  • Equipment and experienced guides for activities as described in the itinerary
  • Park and other entry fees (unless otherwise noted)
  • Fares for trains, ferries and other modes of travel as listed in the itinerary
  • Select transfers as mentioned in the itinerary
  • Baggage transfers and porterage

Price Does Not Include


  • International airfare, airport taxes, and excess baggage fees
  • Alcoholic beverages (MT Sobek provides wine at select events)
  • Gratuities for MT Sobek guides and guide-drivers
  • Travel Protection Program
  • Personal expenses

Contact An Expert


800-974-0300

Need help picking your next adventure? Call us to answer your questions.

Your Guides


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 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.

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Start the day with a drive through the countryside to reconnect with the pilgrimage trail. Begin at magnificent temple 80, Kokubun-ji. Have a look at its legendary bell, then follow a sloping path through dense forest and ascend log stairs to the peak of Mount Shiromine. Discover beautiful architecture at temple 81, Shiromine-ji (White Peak Temple), surrounded by maple trees. Descend back into the forest, walking on rock and dirt trails to the lantern-filled halls of temple 82, Negoro-ji (Fragrant Root Temple), on the slopes of Mount Aomine. Drive to Kotohira, a delightful onsen town known for its large Shinto shrine dedicated to sailors and seafaring, Kompira-san. Settle into your inn and soothe any sore muscles at the onsen baths.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 3-hour private van transfer [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.187 [Longitude] => 133.81 ) [7] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 8 [DayTo] => 8 [Headline] => Follow the Path Between the Pilgrimage\'s Final Two Temples? [ActivityOverview] => 3-4 hours/6.8 miles hiking with 1,765\' elevation gain and 826\' elevation loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

After breakfast, begin your final day of walking on the Shikoku Pilgrimage. Begin with a visit to temple 87, Nagao-ji (Long Tail Temple), tucked into a suburban neighborhood and the penultimate temple for pilgrims. Drive to the Shikoku Henro Pilgrimage Exchange Salon, then hike the final leg of the pilgrimage to temple 88, Okubo-ji (Great Hollow Temple), on the slopes of Nyotai-san Mountain. You can feel the emotion as the journey nears its goal on this last ascent. As the final stop on the pilgrimage, wooden staffs are traditionally discarded at the understated temple to mark the completion of the journey. Celebrate your achievement together before leaving the trail for the coastal city of Takamatsu.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 0 [Travel_Type] => 1.5-hour private van transfer [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.341 [Longitude] => 134.052 ) [8] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 9 [DayTo] => 9 [Headline] => Explore the Art Island of Naoshima & Travel to Hiroshima [ActivityOverview] => 4 hours/5 miles walking with 300\' elevation gain & 300\' elevation loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Depart Shikoku by ferry for Naoshima island, an art-filled jewel in the picturesque Inland Sea. Visit a museum that is a work of art in itself. Designed to minimize its impact on the island’s natural beauty, it was ingeniously constructed underground in such a way that the interior is illuminated with natural light, which changes color and angle according to the hour and season. Works by artists such as Claude Monet and James Turrell can be experienced in this unusual space. Next, get outdoors to view installations and sculptures, including Yayoi Kusama’s celebrated Pumpkin, set on a pier with the Inland Sea as a striking backdrop. Discover unoccupied homes, now reimagined as works of art through the Art House Project. At the end of the day, hop on a ferry to Honshu and drive to Okayama where you’ll board the Shinkansen (bullet train) to Hiroshima and check into your hotel.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 0 [Travel_Type] => 50-minute ferry, 20-minute ferry 1-hour private van transfer 40-minute bullet train ride [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.3 [Longitude] => 132.475 ) [9] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 10 [DayTo] => 10 [Headline] => Witness the Floating Itsukushima Shrine [ActivityOverview] => 3 hours/3 miles walking with 300\' elevation gain & 300\' elevation loss [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

This morning the ferry takes you back onto the Inland Sea to the photogenic shores of Miyajima Island, a sacred Shinto site since the 6th century. Visit Itsukushima Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage Site listed as an excellent example of the Japanese standard of beauty, harmoniously combining architecture with nature—in this case both sea and mountains. Built over the water on stilts, the Shinto shrine features elegant wooden pavilions connected by boardwalks, designed to appear as if floating during high tide. Its iconic vermillion torii gate rises dramatically from the sea, framing the forested mountains beyond. Spend tonight on the island.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 0 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 30-minute private van transfer, 30-minute ferry ride [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.300 [Longitude] => 132.321 ) [10] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 11 [DayTo] => 11 [Headline] => Summit Miyajima\'s Mount Misen for Inland Sea Views [ActivityOverview] => 3 hours/3 miles hiking with 1,700\' elevation gain [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Awake for another day on this gorgeous island. Head out on the trails, first stopping at Buddhist Daisho-in temple. Although Miyajima is known for its Shinto shrine, Mount Misen is also a place where Kukai (Kobo Daishi)—who the Shikoku pilgrimage is dedicated to—practiced Buddhism. Ascend into the hills, walking through enchanting old growth groves with chances to see the resident spotted deer or—if you are very lucky—monkeys. After a final steep climb, reach the summit for breathtaking panoramic views of inland sea islands, forested ridges, and down over the Itsukushima Shrine. Return to the base of the mountain by gondola and gather for a celebratory farewell dinner.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 1 [Dinner] => 1 [Travel_Type] => 20-minute gondola ride down from Mount Misen [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.3 [Longitude] => 132.321 ) [11] => Array ( [DayFrom] => 12 [DayTo] => 12 [Headline] => Depart from Hiroshima [ActivityOverview] => 30-minute ferry ride, 30-minute private van transfer 1.5-hour train ride [EstimatedLength] => [ActivityLevel] => [ItinBlock] =>

Rise early to catch the morning ferry from Miyajima to Hiroshima. Board the Shinkansen to Osaka and transfer to Kansai International Airport for flights home, or continue by train to Kyoto to continue your Japan journey independently.

[Breakfast] => 1 [Lunch] => 0 [Dinner] => 0 [Travel_Type] => [Quotation] => [Quotation_Attribution] => [Quotation_Location] => [Itinerary_Location] => [Latitude] => 34.437 [Longitude] => 132.917 ) ) [ActivityHighlight] => Moderately paced hikes of up to 8 miles a day on five consecutive days, plus a shorter hike on Miyajima, and extensive walking and cultural touring in Kyoto and on Naoshima. Daily mileage is shorter than most Level 4 trips, but we rate this trip a Level 4 due to some steep and continuous ascents and descents, including long flights of large uneven steps that may be slippery. [Trip_Level] => 4 )

Activity Level


This trip is rated activity level 4. Moderately paced hikes of up to 8 miles a day on five consecutive days, plus a shorter hike on Miyajima, and extensive walking and cultural touring in Kyoto and on Naoshima. Daily mileage is shorter than most Level 4 trips, but we rate this trip a Level 4 due to some steep and continuous ascents and descents, including long flights of large uneven steps that may be slippery.
Learn more about activity levels here.

Activity Snapshot

Day 2

8 hours/5-6 miles city walking with negligible elevation gain or loss

Day 3

2 hours/4 miles walking (negligible ascent and descent)

Day 4

5-6 hours/8 miles hiking with 2,215' elevation gain and 3,315' elevation loss

Day 5

3 hours/5 miles hiking with 1,510' elevation gain and 1,540' elevation loss

Day 6

4 hours/4 miles walking with 500' elevation gain & 500' elevation loss

Day 7

5 hours/8.4 miles hiking with 2,150' elevation gain and 1,100' elevation loss

Day 8

3-4 hours/6.8 miles hiking with 1,765' elevation gain and 826' elevation loss

Day 9

4 hours/5 miles walking with 300' elevation gain & 300' elevation loss

Day 10

3 hours/3 miles walking with 300' elevation gain & 300' elevation loss

Day 11

3 hours/3 miles hiking with 1,700' elevation gain

Day 12

30-minute ferry ride, 30-minute private van transfer 1.5-hour train ride

*Mileage and elevation change information is approximate and may vary slightly depending on trail conditions, weather, and route adjustments, and the guide’s discretion.

Accommodations


Enjoy stays in traditional ryokans (inns) – many with onsen (hot springs) – and comfortable hotels with modern amenities.
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu
Nohga Hotel Kiyomizu
Stylish with a Japanese aesthetic, this sustainability-forward hotel incorporates elements crafted by local artisans throughout. Sink into a seating nook or stretch out on crisp white bedding. Your room includes a Bluetooth speaker and rain shower. Take in the views over the city nestled around a firepit at the rooftop bar. Historic temples including Kiyomizu and Sanjusangen-do are just a short stroll away. 
Awa Kanko Hotel
Awa Kanko Hotel
Ideally located in the urban center of Tokishima, this hotel is easily identified by its distinctive geometric architecture. Stay in simple guest rooms offering Western bedding with fluffy duvets, ensuite baths, and city views. The warm friendly staff are ready to help, and the soothing public bath is a welcome escape after a day of exploration.  
Hotel Shikinosato
Hotel Shikinosato
On the same site as the original 1868 bathhouse, this 20-room ryokan offers delightful indoor hot spring baths. One built with local Kamiyama bluestone and cedar fed by the original spring and another with cobbled stone walls and water from a mineral-rich salt spring, both with views of the surrounding hills. Our reserved rooms feature the comfort of a Western bed and full en-suite bathroom. 
Hikyonoyu
Hikyonoyu
In the spirit of hikyou (an unexplored place), this modern ryokan takes you on culinary adventures and hot spring rituals. Light-filled rooms look out on mountain scenery and include traditional features such as futon beds, sliding shoji screens and tatami mats. Our reserved rooms all include full-ensuite bathroom. The mineral-rich public baths include a therapeutic mugwort bath, salt sauna, and a large indoor pool and small outdoor bath surrounded by maple trees—both crafted with Tokushima bluestone. 
Onyado Shikishimakan
Onyado Shikishimakan
Stay in carefully renovated Shikishimakan—a Meiji-era wooden inn. The interior blends classic Japanese design with modern comforts. Stay in a neatly organized room, with a shoji-screened window, wooden furnishings, and comfortable Western twin beds, as well as en-suite shower and toilet. Wear your yukata to the bathhouse, which includes a large cypress-edged indoor pool, two outdoor cypress barrel baths and a stone-lined pool. Watch life pass by from the soothing foot bath out front.  
Royal Park Hotel, Takamatsu
Royal Park Hotel, Takamatsu
The rich materials, geometric shapes, and soft colors of Art Deco style welcome you in, and quiet, cozy rooms with plush bedding and compact baths invite you to stay. The staff here are warm and welcoming, ready to assist you, and the hotel is convenient to the ferry port. Begin your day with a delicious breakfast and end it with a cocktail and complimentary appetizers in the dark wood library lounge.   
Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
Hotel Granvia Hiroshima
With a prime location next to the train station, this hotel is perched in a modern high-rise building, overlooking the city and station below, allowing you to watch the shinkansen zip by. Thoughtfully designed rooms with soothing interior décor and large windows. Enjoy Western and Japanese dishes made with local Inland Sea and Hiroshima ingredients at the restaurant and unwind at the bar in the evening. 
Itsukushima Iroha
Itsukushima Iroha
Established in 1867, this ryokan has evolved over the decades yet maintains a traditional Japanese aesthetic. Stylish rooms include a sleeping area (most with western beds – one room has futons instead, for those that prefer), and a traditional tatami mat area with Japanese style floor seating and low table. All rooms have ensuite bath and toilet facilities. On the roof you will find an indoor onsen bath and an open-air bath with spectacular views of the mountains, sea and Itsukushima torii gate.    

Weather


Spring and fall temperatures range from 50F to the high 70s F, and there is a fair chance of rain.

 
Sep
Oct
Nov
Hiroshima 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Hiroshima
83
68
73
57
63
46
Kyoto 
High
Low
High
Low
High
Low
Kyoto
84
68
73
56
63
46

FAQs


Who will meet me on arrival?
We find most travelers prefer to extend their adventure in Tokyo, Osaka, Kyoto or further afield on their own. On this trip you are free to arrive in the city of your choice and make your own way to the meeting point in Kyoto on Day 1 of the itinerary. When you book with MT Sobek, details on public transportation options are provided in your travel documents.
Can you manage vegetarian meals, or meals without fish or shellfish?
We are more than happy to request meals with no apparent animal products, but meals without any traces of fish are not possible to arrange due to the ubiquitous nature of dashi (broth flavored with dried fish flakes). Dashi is foundational to Japanese cuisine and is a small component of many dishes. We are not able to arrange for all dishes to be prepared without dashi; you can decide not to eat them but may then need to supplement meals with snacks that you supply yourself. Many of our vegetarian guests who have doubts about dashi before coming to Japan find that they enjoy the delicious dishes made with this subtle flavoring.
Can I travel to Japan if I'm gluten-free?
We are unable to guarantee 100% gluten-free meals, as there is some gluten in soy sauce and in miso, which are core seasoning ingredients in Japan and very difficult to avoid. That said, we are happy to request meals that don't include wheat noodles, tempura, breaded items, or bread. Please let us know your needs as soon as possible so we can manage your request.
What happens if I need to skip or shorten a hiking day?

On Shikoku, this trip is fully vehicle supported, offering the option on most days to either join the group further along the trail or meet the van partway through the hike. You may also choose to travel with the luggage to the next destination and wait for the group to arrive later in the day. Please be aware that you will need to wait for the check-in time to get into your room.

What is staying in a ryokan like?
We use traditional inns known as ryokans for 6 nights of the trip (Days 4–7 on Shikoku and Days 10 & 11 on Miyajima). Ryokans usually have tatami mat floors, futon beds, and shared bathing facilities, but for this itinerary, the ryokans we stay at all have a full private bathroom in each room, and most also have Western style beds. There will be just 2 nights in a ryokan with futon beds (Days 5 & 6 in the Iya Valley), plus there is one room at our last ryokan (Days 10 & 11 on Miyajima) that has futons instead of Western beds for guests that choose this option. For these nights where futons are used, note that bedding is stored during the day and laid out in the evening. The futons are laid out directly on the tatami, together with buckwheat-filled traditional Japanese pillows (or Western style pillows are occasionally available). At all ryokans, you'll remove shoes once inside your room and change into slippers that are provided. Lightweight cotton yukata robes are also provided to wear in the evenings and at dinner, reducing the amount of luggage you'll need to have with you.
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.

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