From $3,186 Was $3,540
Guarantee
Small Group
Average
Rating
(13 reviews)
Experience Overview
Stray off the tourist trail with an eight-day trekking adventure on some of the ancient pilgrim routes in Japan. The Koya-san and Kumano Kodo treks take you deep through the wilderness and into the mountainous landscapes of Honshu, as well as providing insight into the strong connection with past and present pilgrims hiking these historic routes. Along the way, stop by peaceful temples and tranquil monasteries, soak in traditional onsen and discover the cultural hubs of Kyoto and Osaka. This small-group adventure will give you both a physical and cultural workout around the best of enchanting Japan.
Highlights
- Experience two of the main religions in Japan – Buddhism and Shintoism – by following the footsteps of ancient pilgrims on their quest for faith along the Koya-san and Kumano Kodo trails.
- Discover two of the major cultural hubs of Japan on foot, walking the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto and strolling through the Dotombori district in Osaka.
- Join in the morning prayers and share a traditional shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) meal during an overnight temple stay in Koya-san, deep in mountainous Wakayama prefecture.
- Soak in an ancient onsen after a day of trekking in Yunomine – there's no better way in Japan to relax and rejuvenate, as well as understand local traditions, than in the natural mineral waters of a hot spring.
- Explore Kyoto on a couple of nearby hikes for a different perspective on the life and culture in this notable city, as well as visiting some sites of natural and religious significance.
- By travelling on this trip, you’ll learn about our Intrepid Foundation partner, Eden Reforestation Projects. Donations help them provide local employment opportunities and tackle climate change one tree at a time as they restore forests across 10 different countries. Intrepid will double the impact by dollar-matching all post-trip donations made to The Intrepid Foundation.
Trip Details
Product Code: 1731
Tour Type: Small Group
Accommodation: Moderate
Transport: Train,Private vechicle,Taxi
Guide Language: English
Supplier Code: CJXK
Starts: Kyoto, Japan
Finishes: Osaka, Japan
Duration: 8 days
Departures: Guaranteed
Physical rating:
Average
Includes
Meals: Breakfasts (6), Lunch (2), Dinner (5)Accommodation: Hotel (3 nights),Ryokan (1 night),Guesthouse/Ryokan (2 night),Temple Stay (1 night)
Price
Price per person: (Double Occupancy) $3,186 ($398 /day)
Itinerary
Konnichiwa! Welcome to Kyoto, Japan. Your adventure begins with a welcome meeting at 6 pm today. If you have some free time, step out onto the streets for your first taste of this beautiful city. Originally founded as Heian-kyo – ‘tranquility and peace capital’ – in AD794, Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years before the emperor and government relocated to Tokyo. Because of this, Kyoto is rich in history, with over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens. After the meeting tonight, perhaps head out for your first taste of local Japanese food. As the millennium-long home of the imperial kitchen, Kyoto is known as the centre of Japanese culinary tradition, so you’re sure to have a delicious meal wherever you go.
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Get active this morning with a walk to the eighth century Shimogamo Shrine – located right at the intersection of the Kamo-gamo and Takano rivers. The shrine is dedicated to the god of harvest and holds many rites around purification and agricultural produce, and this visit will provide an introduction to Shintoism – an indigenous belief system connecting ancient past and present Japanese culture together. Continue to renowned Ginkaku-ji, also known as the Silver Pavilion, to see Japanese garden design at its best and learn about the key principles of Japanese Zen. Afterwards, take a short but steep hike up behind Ginkaku-ji for some scenic views over Kyoto. On your way back to the hotel, walk along Philosopher’s Path, lined with cherry blossom trees, and if there’s time, stop by two other Zen temples. Today’s introduction to the importance of Buddhism and Shintoism in Japanese culture will inform some aspects of your hiking trails in the days to come, so listen up!
Included Activities:
- Kyoto - Shimogamo Shrine
- Kyoto - Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku-no-Michi)
- Kyoto - Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
- Kyoto - Mt. Daimonji-yama hike
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
Take a train (approximately 2.5 hours) to Kii-hosokawa Station in the Koya-san district, ready for your forest trek. Koya-san is the name given to a monastic complex in the Koya-Ryujin Quasi-National Park, and is one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Begin your 11-kilometre trek on the Koya-san Choishi Michi trail, passing by stone signposts (choishi), which stand every few hundred metres to help the original pilgrims find their way. After approximately 4.5 hours, you’ll reach Daimon Gate – a two-storey crimson gate that marks the entrance to Koya-san. Being the centre of Shingon Buddhism, Koya-san is steeped in centuries of history, and you’ll be able to learn about its role as an active spiritual centre this afternoon. Tonight you will stay in traditional shukubo (temple stay) accommodation, and enjoy a shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) meal provided by your hosts.
Included Activities:
- Koya-san - Koya-san Choishi Michi trail
- Koya-san - Okuno-in Mausoleum
Accommodation:
- Temple Stay (Number of Nights: 1)
This morning, you’ll have the chance to participate in the monastery’s morning prayers, before making tracks to Yunomine Onsen by private vechicle. This 4.5-hour journey weaves through the Koya-san and Kumano Kodo mountains. Yunomine is an ancient onsen town that forms part of the Kumano Kodo trail, which you will be trekking in the coming days. Yunomine Onsen has such a long history that one of its onsen baths, Tsuboyu, is designated as a World Heritage-listed site. Historically, pilgrims would perform purification rituals in the hot spring water as part of the religious process of their pilgrimage. Today you’ll also get to visit Kumano Hongu Taisha – one of the three grand Shinto shrines on the Kumano Kodo.
Included Activities:
- Kumano Kodo - Kumano Hongū Taisha
Accommodation:
- Ryokan (Number of Nights: 1)
Embrace an early start as you’ll hike part of the historic Kumano Kodo today. The Kumano Kodo is one of only two World Heritage-listed pilgrimage routes in the world, the other being the Camino de Santiago in Spain. This morning, transfer to Ukegawa by bus (a short 15-minute ride), then begin hiking this pilgrimage route to Koguchi. The first 5 kilometres are a gradual uphill to Hyakken-gura, then it’s an undulating trail to the Sakura-toge Pass for around 3.5 kilometres. After this, it will mostly be downhill until you reach Koguchi. Today’s trails are surrounded by natural forest, full of cedar and cypress trees, and upon reaching the Hyakken-gura peak, you’ll be greeted with sweeping views of the mountainous terrain of Wakayama.
Included Activities:
- Kumano Kudo - Hiking
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse/Ryokan (Number of Nights: 1)
New day; new trail – get ready for another full-day hike on the sacred Kumano Kodo. For around the first 3 hours, it’s a steep uphill climb, rising to over 800 metres. After reaching the Echizen-toge Pass, follow the ridge of the forest for another couple of kilometres until you reach the highest point at Funami-jaya teahouse (868 metres). Continue mostly downhill for approximately 4.5 kilometres to Nachi Taisha – another of the three Kumano shrines, and probably the most photographed because of the nearby waterfalls that cascade in the background. Enjoy the peaceful scenery and sense of accomplishment before heading by local bus to Kii Katsuura this afternoon. Your accommodation this evening is a Japanese-style guesthouse.
Included Activities:
- Kumano Kudo - Hiking
Accommodation:
- Guesthouse (Number of Nights: 1)
In the morning, visit the local tuna market at Kii Katsuura, where tuna from the cool waters of the Pacific is traded daily, before you hop on a train and rest your legs for the long journey to Osaka (approximately 5 hours). You’ll hit Osaka around lunchtime, just in time to head on a walking tour with your leader to the famous Dotombori neighbourhood, which is the city’s most popular shopping, food and entertainment district. At night, this district is lit by hundreds of neon lights and mechanised signs, including the famous Glico Running Man and Kani Doraku crab. How about getting a group of your travel pals together for a night of food, drinks and possibly some karaoke!
Included Activities:
- Osaka - Dotombori District walking tour
- Kii Katsuura - Tuna Market
Accommodation:
- Hotel (Number of Nights: 1)
With no activities planned for today, you are free to depart at any time.
Tour Operator
Intrepid Travel
Intrepid Travel is a global adventure travel company, dedicated to providing sustainable, experience-rich travel opportunities. They’ve been the leader in ethical, small-group travel since 1989 - taking people around the world for more than 30 years. They’re the world’s largest travel B Corporation - dedicated to being the best travel company for the world. In 2002, they established The Intrepid Foundation so their travellers could make a lasting impact on the communities they had visited. Although Intrepid Travel absorbs all administrative costs of The Intrepid Foundation, they are separate legal entities, allowing The Intrepid Foundation to grow independently. Intrepid Travel is made up of a collection of tour operator brands and 28 destination management companies all united by one vision: To change the way we all see the world.
In Business Since 1989
Reviews
Caitlin - Traveled, October 2023
Great trip. Hiking was beautiful especially in the rain. Ken our leader was great. The traditional accommodation and food was so good - so lucky to have experienced it all.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/18/2023
Rob - Traveled, September 2023
A wonderful trip that allows you to gain a greater understanding of the people and culture of Japan and make new friends. Whilst the walk was challenging at times, the trip was an opportunity to experience the wilderness, temples, onsens and a variety of local food types. Kento our fantastic tour leader, was a great ambassador for Japan and Intrepid.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/26/2023
Marcela - Traveled, June 2023
Had a great time during our Japan trip. Well organized, our guide Ken was fantastic. Very knowledgeable and funny. Itinerary and accommodation were as expected so all group had a great time. We were very lucky to have a fabulous group of people of very varied ages (and the 'oldies' proved to be as fit or even fitter than some of the 'youngsters' which was great to see). Would definitely travel with Intrepid again. Thanks for amazing holidays.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/01/2023
Anne - Traveled, June 2023
Fantastic trip and value for money. Awesome leader. Would recommend to anyone who has a good level of fitness.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 06/25/2023
Megan - Traveled, June 2023
This was a wonderful trip. I would highly recommend. For me personally a good mix of sightseeing and trekking. The big trail day was an awesome challenge if your looking for that achievement satisfaction on your trip. Amazing tour leader Ken as well who really made the trip fun and comfortable. I loved getting to know that Japanese rail and public transport system too as it made the rest of my trip much easier.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/01/2023
Julia - Traveled, June 2023
Japan Koya-san and Kumano Kodo Trek did not disappoint. A diverse trip covering many temples and shrines, beautiful countryside, some steep uphill and uneven footage but fully guided by intrepid team and always felt safe and secure. Eating and Sleeping in a mix of local accommodation and hotels gives a great insight to the real Japan.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 07/02/2023
Lisa - Traveled, May 2023
This was an excellent trip for those who like hiking but don’t have time to do the full Kumano Kodo trail. The monastery stay in Koya-san was a highlight, as was the night market in Kyoto and the onsens at the different ryokans. A great trip all around!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/19/2023
Andrew - Traveled, May 2023
A fantastic tour with challenging hikes met with culturally rich Japanese experiences. The Ryokan and Temple stays were such a delight to have and there were aspects of language & culture that only our guide Kento could help us navigate. An forgettable trip!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2023
Pru - Traveled, May 2023
One of a kind trip! It was filled with so much beauty, culture and wisdom. The trail was a great trek, alot of activities were included, lodgings were comfortable and the tour leader was fantastic. I will never forget this tour, I couldn't recommend it more!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 05/17/2023
Ashley - Traveled, October 2023
The description doesn't do the trip justice. Had such a great time staying in more traditional style inns. We would come back from a day of walking to a hot public bath, matching robes, and amazing meals. I was thoroughly filled with happiness everyday. It was like a wellness retreat. Ken did a great job taking care of us and making sure we were all accounted for on public transportation. Definitely recommend.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/19/2023
Rose - Traveled, September 2023
Excellent immersion in the religion, culture, food and remote location of Koyasan and the Komoda Koda. Prepare for a 3 hour, 850 meter elevation change on the toughest hike. Challenging but gratifying when completed. Ken, our tour guide was nothing short of fabulous.
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/01/2023
Patrick - Traveled, September 2023
I had a fantastic time on our tour of the Koya-San and Kumano Kodo. Some challenging hikes, amazing scenery and really interesting places to stay. And all with the wonderful Ken who was a brilliant guide and took so much trouble to make it all go so smoothly. Would highly recommend!
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 10/01/2023
david - Traveled, September 2023
the trip was quite challenging with kento always available to encourage and or assist with any requirements
Source: Tour operator Submitted: 09/21/2023
Share a personalized trip brochure!
Why book with us?
Best Rate Guarantee
Mytours.Travel makes sure you always have the best available rate
Best Selection
The best operators from around the world
Trusted Payments
Secure payments with Stripe
Expert Advice
Our expert agents will assist you in booking the perfect experience