16 days Japan Kumano Kodo & Nakasendo

Arrive in Osaka and make your way to your accommodation. Spend the remainder of the day exploring Osaka at your leisure. Known for its vibrant atmosphere, visit the lively Dotonbori district with its endless restaurants or simply relax in your hotel. Osaka is a city of contrasts, blending traditional sites with modern entertainment.

Overnight in Aloft Hotel Dojima, Osaka, part of the Marriott Group

Start the day with a transfer to Koyasan, a sacred temple town. After a short sightseeing tour, embark on a 11km walk through towering cedar forests, passing centuries-old temples and rugged mountains. Reach the majestic Daimon Gate and enjoy a spiritual experience with a guided meditation session. End the day with an authentic Japanese dinner at your temple lodging.

Overnight in Rengejoin Lodge, Koyasan

This challenging 12.6km walk takes you through the lush forests and stone paths of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route. Begin at Takijiri-Oji, ascend to Takahara village, and visit the ancient Takahara Kumano-jinja shrine. After lunch, choose between two optional walks or enjoy free time in Takahara, soaking in stunning views of the Hatenashi mountain range.

Overnight in Takahara Organic Hotel

Today’s 5km walk leads you from Michi-no-Eki to Tsugizakura-Oji, with scenic views of Chikatsuyu village and the Hiki-gawa River. Explore sacred shrines and giant cedar trees before transferring to Watarase Onsen for relaxation. Enjoy a soothing soak in the hot springs and a traditional dinner, served in yukata (Japanese robes), at the hotel.

Overnight in Hotel Sasayuri

A 10km journey through forests and remote villages brings you to the grand Kumano Hongu Taisha Shrine. Marvel at the towering 33.9-meter torii gate before descending towards the Taisha complex. Continue to Yunomine Onsen for a relaxing evening in its hot springs. Enjoy a traditional dinner with sake or beer at the hotel.

Overnight in Hotel Sasayuri

Set out on a 13km walk from Ukegawa, ascending to Hyakken-gura for sweeping mountain views. Descend through serene forests towards Koguchi, a remote village nestled among towering mountains. After the walk, transfer back to your hotel to relax in the hot springs and enjoy a delicious dinner.

Overnight in Hotel Sasayuri

Today’s 14.53km walk challenges you with steep ascents and descents, leading you to the grand Nachi Taisha Shrine. Explore the beautiful Seiganto-ji Temple and the awe-inspiring Nachi-no-Otaki waterfalls, the tallest in Japan. After the walk, head to the coastal fishing village of Kii-Katsuura and unwind at Hotel Urashima.

Overnight in Hotel Urashima

Experience a traditional wooden boat cruise along the Kumano River, following in the footsteps of ancient pilgrims. After disembarking in Shingu, visit the Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site. Afterward, transfer back to Osaka and check in at the Aloft Hotel Osaka for a relaxing evening.

Overnight in Aloft Hotel Osaka, part of the Marriott Group

Arrive in Kyoto and begin your day with the iconic walk through Fushimi Inari Shrine’s thousands of orange torii gates. After a traditional lunch, experience a tea ceremony in kimonos, learning the ancient art while dressed in stunning attire. Capture beautiful moments and enjoy the peacefulness of this cultural tradition.

Overnight in The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo

Visit Hikone Castle, a National Treasure with a rich history dating back to the Edo period. Explore its gardens and the historical streets of Hikone before transferring to the town of Ena for a visit to the Hiroshige Museum of Art. End the day with a delightful organic dinner at your accommodation.

Overnight in Ichikawa Inn

Walk through the rural landscapes of Okute-juku, passing through traditional farmhouses and quiet shrines. Reach the Naegi Castle Ruins, nestled in lush greenery, and enjoy sweeping views of the Kiso Valley. After the walk, transfer back to Ena for dinner and relaxation at your inn.

Overnight in Ichikawa Inn

Enjoy a 10km walk from Magome, a charming Edo-era town, to Tsumago, through the Kiso Valley. The scenic walk takes you through forests, past waterfalls, and traditional villages. Tsumago’s preserved architecture offers a peaceful glimpse into Japan’s past. Relax and unwind at the traditional Maruya Inn.

Overnight in Maruya Inn

Embark on a 13km walk through lush countryside and dense forests, offering glimpses of traditional villages and serene rivers. After the walk, enjoy a sake-tasting session at a local brewery in Kiso Fukushima, before heading back to your accommodation in Ena for a traditional Japanese dinner.

Overnight in Tsutaya Inn, Kiso Fukushima

Today’s 6km walk takes you to the sacred Mount Ontake, where you’ll trek through lush forests and visit spiritual shrines along the way. Enjoy views of the Shintaki and Kiyotaki waterfalls, which are part of purification rituals. After the walk, unwind in the Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat’s open-air onsen.

Overnight in Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat

Enjoy a peaceful 9km walk from Yabuhara to Narai, passing through lush forests and quaint villages. As you ascend to Torii Pass, take in panoramic views of the surrounding mountains before arriving in Narai, a beautifully preserved post town. Spend time exploring the town before heading to your accommodation in Karuizawa.

Overnight in Ancient Hotel

On the final day, visit the stunning Shiraito Waterfall and enjoy a scenic walk through the cypress-lined forest path. Take in views of Mount Asama before reaching Yokokawa. After a rewarding walk, transfer back to Tokyo to conclude your Japan adventure.

Aloft Osaka Dojima offers a vibrant, design-forward stay in the heart of Osaka’s lively Dojima district. Ideal for modern travellers, the hotel features loft-inspired rooms, a lively bar, 24-hour pantry, and gym. With bold interiors, social spaces, and easy access to Umeda and local attractions, it’s a refreshing base to explore the energy of Osaka.

Ren’gejo-in Temple offers a serene, culturally immersive stay in the sacred town of Koyasan. Dating back to the 12th century, this historic temple once housed the famed Sanada samurai clan. Guests sleep in traditional tatami rooms overlooking tranquil gardens, dine on beautifully prepared shōjin ryōri (Buddhist vegetarian cuisine), and are invited to participate in morning prayers, meditation, and sutra copying. A peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual connection and authentic Japanese hospitality.

Organic Hotel Kirinosato-Takahara offers a tranquil, eco-friendly retreat along the sacred Kumano Kodo trail in Wakayama. Perched above terraced fields, it boasts panoramic views of the Hatenashi mountain range. Guests enjoy traditional Japanese or Western-style rooms, organic meals blending local and international flavours, and a serene onsen sourced from Wataze Onsen. With warm hospitality and a peaceful atmosphere, it’s an ideal base for pilgrims and nature lovers alike.

Watarase Onsen Hotel Sasayuri offers a serene, nature-rich retreat in the sacred Kumano region of Wakayama. Set along the Yomura River, this ryokan features Japan’s largest open-air hot spring baths, including private options ideal for couples and families. Guests enjoy spacious Japanese-Western rooms, seasonal kaiseki cuisine, and a tranquil atmosphere, perfect for relaxing after exploring the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails.

Hotel Urashima is a unique seaside resort perched on a rugged peninsula in Nachikatsuura, Wakayama. Accessible by a short ferry ride from Katsuura Port, the hotel is renowned for its Bokido Cave onsen, a natural hot spring bath set within a cavern overlooking the Pacific Ocean. The expansive complex comprises four interconnected buildings, offering a variety of accommodations with panoramic ocean views. Guests can enjoy multiple onsen baths, including the famed cave bath, and dine on fresh local seafood. With its blend of natural beauty and traditional Japanese hospitality, Hotel Urashima provides a memorable retreat along the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage route.

The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo offers a stylish, centrally located stay in Kyoto’s Nakagyo Ward. Just a short walk from Sanjo Station and the Kamo River, the hotel is surrounded by vibrant dining, shopping, and cultural attractions. Modern rooms feature plush bedding, sleek bathrooms, and thoughtful amenities. Guests can enjoy a buffet breakfast at Restaurant Monsieur ITOH and unwind at the chic bar lounge. With its blend of comfort and convenience, it’s an ideal base for exploring Kyoto’s historic charm.

Enakyo Onsen Hotel Yuzuriha offers a tranquil retreat overlooking the scenic Enakyo Gorge in Gifu Prefecture. All rooms feature panoramic views of the gorge, providing a serene backdrop for relaxation. Guests can unwind in natural hot spring baths, including open-air options, and savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine highlighting local ingredients. With spacious accommodations and warm hospitality, it’s an ideal base for exploring the beauty of Ena.

Ichikawa Inn is a historic ryokan nestled in Ena, Gifu Prefecture, with a legacy spanning over 400 years. Originating as the Kadoya inn during the Edo period, it continues to welcome guests along the Nakasendo trail. Traditional Japanese-style rooms overlook serene gardens, offering a peaceful retreat. Guests can savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine crafted from local ingredients, complemented by the inn’s own sake. With its blend of heritage, warm hospitality, and tranquil surroundings, Ichikawa Inn provides an authentic experience of Japan’s cultural charm.

Maruya Inn is a historic family-run minshuku nestled along the Nakasendo Trail in O-Tsumago, Nagano Prefecture. Established in 1789, this charming inn offers travellers an authentic glimpse into Edo-period Japan. Guests can relax in traditional tatami rooms, savour seasonal home-cooked meals, and unwind in the indoor bath. With its warm hospitality and serene atmosphere, Maruya Inn provides a memorable retreat for those exploring the Kiso Valley.

Tsutaya Ryokan is a historic inn nestled in the heart of Kiso-Fukushima, along the scenic Nakasendo Trail. Established in 1688, this traditional ryokan seamlessly blends Edo-period charm with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in serene tatami-mat rooms, savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine, and relax in the onsen baths. With its rich heritage and warm hospitality, Tsutaya Ryokan offers an authentic retreat for travellers exploring the Kiso Valley.

Tsutaya Tokinoyado Kazari is a serene, design-forward retreat nestled in the Kaida Highlands of Kiso, Nagano. Surrounded by forests and offering panoramic views of Mount Ontake, this modern ryokan blends traditional Japanese aesthetics with contemporary comforts. Guests can unwind in rooms featuring private open-air baths or saunas, savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine, and relax in natural hot spring baths. With its tranquil setting and warm hospitality, it’s an ideal base for exploring the beauty of the Kiso Valley.

Ancient Hotel Asama Karuizawa offers a serene, design-forward retreat nestled within the forests of Karuizawa’s Joshinetsu National Park. Ideal for luxury travellers seeking tranquillity, the hotel features 13 uniquely themed rooms inspired by natural gemstones, each blending traditional Japanese aesthetics with modern comforts. Guests can unwind in crystal-stone onsen baths, savour seasonal kaiseki cuisine, and enjoy stargazing sessions guided by experts. With its harmonious integration of nature, thoughtful design, and warm hospitality, Ancient Hotel Asama Karuizawa provides a rejuvenating escape from the everyday.