Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail
Overview
Highlights
- Hike along forested pilgrim trails between ancient shrines
- Explore the temples and gardens of historic Kyoto and Nara on foot
- Enjoy traditional Japanese cuisine and accommodation
What's this trip about?
Details
Travel Themes
Destinations
Attractions
Activities
Itinerary
The trip starts today in Tokyo, the ultra-modern capital of Japan. Your Leader plans to meet everyone in the hotel reception at 6.30pm for the welcome meeting. If some of the group are arriving on later flights then the main introductory briefing will be conducted ...
In the morning we head out to explore this thriving metropolis on a walking tour that will take in some of the residential and more traditional neighbourhoods of the city - Nippori, Yanesen and Nezu, for a glimpse of life in Tokyo far away from the neon lights of the ...
We depart from Shinjuku train station (reputedly the world's busiest) on a scenic journey through the Japanese Alps to Matsumoto. Flanked on each side by mountains, Matsumoto is best known for its 500 year-old castle which is Japan's oldest, and one of its most elegan...
We make an early start today and catch a train to Nakatsugawa. From here it's a journey of around 30 minutes by public bus to Magome in the tranquil Kiso Valley, running alongside the Central Alps. We hike from here along a section of the Nakasendo Way, an historical ...
At the heart of Japanese culture and influence for over 1,000 years, Kyoto lay at the centre of events that helped to shape the destiny and history of this most fascinating of cultures. One of the only major cities to survive the extensive bombing of WWII, Kyoto can b...
We spend today in Japan's first capital Nara, travelling there by train (in around 50 minutes) and exploring on foot. Perhaps one of Japan's friendliest and greenest cities, Nara sits on the edge of a sprawling park that provides a picture-perfect backdrop for the cit...
Today we head into rural Japan and the mountains of the Kii Peninsula, much of which is covered in dense rainforest. Travelling first by train and then bus, we arrive at the small village of Takijiri-Oji, the starting point for our hike on the Kumano Kodo. Kumano Kodo...
We return this morning by minibus to Takahara. It's a longer hike today to Chikatsuyu, a route that takes us past the ruins of the Uwada-jaya Teahouse and across the Hashiori-toge Pass, with its iconic Gyubadoji statue of one of the first pilgrim emperors. We'll be tr...
Today's hike takes us over the mountains from Hosshinmon to the Hongu Taisha, at the very heart of the Kumano Kodo and the region's most important shrine, serving as the head shrine for over 3,000 Kumano shrines across Japan. It's also known for its huge torii gate, t...
We take a break from walking today and start the day with a leisurely boat trip along the Kumano River to Hatayama Taisha, the second of the 3 great Kumano shrines. This is how pilgrims traditionally approached the shrine, which is located near the river mouth. The n...
This morning we take a bus to Daimonzaka Chushajo, from where it's around a 1 hour walk to the Kumano Nachi Taisha, the last of the Kumano Kodo's 3 great shrines. This walk takes you part of the way along the Daimonzaka, an impressive 600 metre/1969 feet cobbled stair...
The trip ends after breakfast this morning at our hotel in Osaka. There are no activities planned today, so you are free to depart from Osaka at any time. If your flight is departing later in the day luggage storage facilities are available at our hotel. If you wou...
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Dates & Availability
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The total tour cost includes the tour price (regular or promotional) and the compulsory local payment. The promotional price is subject to change. Check directly with the operator for the latest price offer. The tour operator requires you to pay only the tour price to purchase your travel. The compulsory local payment will be paid when you join the trip. All prices are based on double, twin or triple share occupancy. Solo passengers will be accommodated in a double, twin or triple room according to availability with a passenger(s) of the same gender. Single supplement only needs to be paid if the passenger does not want to share and requests their own room. Discounts can only be applied at the time of booking and cannot be added at a later date, regardless of any changes made to the original booking.
Prices may vary due to local taxes and trip seasonality. Click "Request Info" to inquire directly with the tour operator for the final trip price.
Explore! Reviews & Ratings
Trusted Customer
Dec 2023
Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail
The trails were the highlight
Anne
Nov 2023
Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail
A life-changing, immersive experience in all things Japan! The trip was well-organised with the perfect balance of city and countryside life. Friendly support and ...
Rosemary
Nov 2023
Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail
The Kumano Kodo trail was really special - off the beaten track. By using the local bus and taxis we completed 4 sections - it was brilliantly organised. It was gr...
Susan
Nov 2023
Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail
Great trip with a great guide - David Lam.
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Tour Operator
About Explore
We've been taking small groups on adventure vacations for over 41 years. Our authentic adventure travel experiences explore the sights and culture of a country, with hand-picked accommodation that balances comfort and location. Our average group tour size is just 11; perfect for meeting new people and getting to the heart of our destinations. Explore is one of the world's most trusted adventure travel companies with over 350 trips to more than 100 countries. We are passionate about travel and have developed a wide range of unique activities and adventures which give our customers an unforgettable experience with a team of award-winning Explore leaders. With Explore, you'll get to see your destination from a whole new perspective that takes you away from the typical well-trodden tourist track. You'll have the chance to meet, dine and stay with local people, rest in authentic accommodation with other like-minded explorers and travel to must-see destinations with a unique Explore twist. From family holidays to trips for solo travelers; cycling tours to wildlife safaris; trekking on mountains or exploring miles of scenic coastline, there is something for every kind of traveler with Explore. We will provide our expert knowledge, exciting itineraries and outstanding service as part of our sustainable travel experiences which take you under the skin of the country you're visiting for the adventure of a lifetime.
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Transportation & flights
- Breakfast : 11
- Dinner : 5
- Lunch : 4
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