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Self-Guided Adventure
Tailor-made
Honshu Hiking
14 Nights: from US$4069 per person (twin share) Trip Code: HIKJPN
From the sacred pilgrimage trails of the Kumano Kodo to the ancient Nakasendo Way samurai route, this active itinerary takes you on some of the best multi-day hikes Japan has to offer, combined with city stays in Tokyo, Kyoto, and Osaka. Read more >
Japan is a hiker's paradise. From the peaks of the Japan Alps to valleys of ancient forests, there is an incredible array of routes to suit walkers of any level. We have picked out our favourite hikes around the main island of Honshu and combined them with stays in Japan's most exciting cities to give you the perfect combination of nature and urban life.
You'd be forgiven for thinking that Tokyo is all about the neon lights and glitzy districts. But located in western Tokyo just an hour's train ride from the centre of the city is Mount Takao, proud owner of three stars in the Michelin Green Guide. At 599m it makes for a great day-hike, and offers plenty of scenic vistas as you head up the trail - on a clear day you can even see Mt Fuji from the summit.
Matsumoto in the foothills of the Japan Alps is famous for its striking 'Black Crow' castle and tasty soba noodles. It makes a perfect stop before heading deeper into the hills for a two day hike along the historic Nakasendo Way in the Kiso Valley. This samurai route is dotted with little wooden postal towns, and walking is the best way to enjoy the beautifully preserved towns and forest paths along the route from Magome to Narai.
Historically the Nakasendo Way connected Matsumoto with the old capital, Kyoto, which is the next stop on your journey. As the religious and cultural heart of the country, the 'City of A Thousand Temples' has more to see than it's physically possible to fit into a visit. One of our favourite half-day excursions from the city is the picturesque but off-the-radar hike from the hamlet of Kibune to the quaint hot spring town of Kurama Onsen, where you can relax in the onsen pools at the end of your walk.
From Kyoto you'll head south down the Kii Peninsula to reach the ancient pilgrimage trails of the Kumano Kodo in Wakayama. The routes, which date back a thousand years, criss-cross the peninsula and connect the three grand shrines known as the Kumano Sanzan - Nachi Taisha, Hongu Taisha, and Hayatama Taisha. Your three-day hike will follow in the footsteps of countless pilgrims as you make your way along our favourite sections of the old Imperial Nakahechi route which connects Kii-Tanabe on the west coast with Kii-Katsuura on the east. You'll along valleys, past rural villages, and through ancient forests, all the while staying at a fascinating mix of traditional ryokan and family-run inns.
Rounding off your trip is a visit to Osaka. The city's reputation as 'Kansai's Kitchen' is well-deserved; a favourite of foodies everywhere, it's the perfect place to tuck into delicious street food while enjoying the laid back vibe of Japan's second biggest city.
What's included
- Accommodation for 14 nights (five nights Japanese style)
- Breakfast each morning, six evening meals and two lunches
- Airport transfers
- Manaca transport card with 2,500 yen credit for city transport
- All train travel between destinations
- Full day private guide service in Tokyo and Kyoto
- Nakasendo Trail map
- Kumano Kodo orientation
- Same-day luggage forwarding service between all destinations in the Kumano Kodo
- Pocket WiFi device
- Your personalised InsideJapan Tours Info-Pack
What's NOT included:
- International flights
- Local transport (buses, subways, taxis) unless otherwise specified
- Any entrance fees unless otherwise specified
- Baggage handling and luggage forwarding (outside the Kumano Kodo)
Trip Highlights
- Walk the Nakasendo samurai route
- Explore the exciting cities of Tokyo, Kyoto & Osaka
- Hike the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails
- Day trip to Mount Takao & Kurama Onsen
- Stay in family-run traditional accommodation
- Visit the “black crow” castle of Matsumoto
- Admire Nachi-no-Otaki, Japan's tallest waterfall
- Try hot spring bathing and hearty Japanese cuisine
For more information email us: [email protected] or call: + 44 117 244 3380
What, where, when and how...
Honshu Hiking - 15 Days
Honshu Hiking - 15 Days - Day by Day
Honshu Hiking - 15 Days - Accommodation
Honshu Hiking - 15 Days - Experiences
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Day 1-3
Immerse yourself in everything Tokyo has to offer, from the traditional Asakusa area to the bright lights of Shinjuku, and enjoy a gentle hike up Mount Takao.
Welcome to Japan! We've arranged for a shared shuttle bus to meet you at the airport and whisk you away to your accommodation in the city. We've chosen the traditional district of Asakusa for your stay in Tokyo; home to Tokyo's old temple Senso-ji and delicious restaurants and cafes, it's the perfect place to ease you gently in to your trip.
On your first full day in the city you will have the services of a professional English-speaking guide to show you the ropes. Whether you want to see all the top sights or get off the beaten track and discover some hidden gems, your guide can tailor the day to suit your interests, as well as showing you the ropes on Tokyo's enormous but incredibly efficient transportation system.
Fancy a breather from the hectic pace of the capital? On your final full day in the city you can hop on a train and head west to get to Mount Takao, a small mountain with some excellent trails and sweeping views of the Kanto Plain – and Mt Fuji if you're lucky! Although it's not as known to foreign visitors, Mount Takao is well-loved by Tokyoites as an easy day trip, and the trails are clearly marked. Just before you reach the top, be sure to stop by the majestic Yakuo-in, a Buddhist temple founded almost 1400 years ago. And if you're feeling like taking it easy, there's always a cable car to take you most of the way to the top!Overnight: Richmond Asakusa
-
Day 4
Today you'll journey into the Alps where you can marvel at the dramatic black castle of Matsumoto.
Bid farewell to Tokyo as you board a Limited Express train to take you north-west into the foothills of the Japan Alps to Matsumoto. This small city is home to its striking ‘Black Crow' castle, considered to be one of the best in the country, delicious soba noodles, and the fascinating Ukiyo-e woodblock print museum on the outskirts of the city. Take in the sights at your leisure before resting up for the first of your multi-day walks on the following day.
Overnight: Buena Vista Hotel
-
Day 5
It's time to walk in the footsteps of samurai as you set off on the first day of the old Nakasendo Way.
From Matsumoto you will head deeper into the hills on another Limited Express train to Nakatsugawa – keep your eyes open en-route for some stunning views. A short bus ride will bring you to the charming postal town of Magome with its streets lined of beautifully preserved wooden buildings selling yummy snacks and drinks, perfect for a quick pit-stop before setting off on your hike on the historic Nakasendo Way.
The walk from Magome to Tsumago is a leisurely three hours, and it takes you along clearly marked paths through forests and past tiny hamlets and rice fields, giving you a fascinating glimpse of rural Japanese life. Tonight you will be staying at a family run minshuku inn where a home-cooked dinner awaits.Overnight: Daikichi Minshuku
-
Day 6
This morning you will head further into the hills for a second day of hiking the Nakasendo Way, before arriving in the wonderfully preserved post town of Narai
Today you will be walking the second part of your two-day Nakasendo Way adventure. A gentle one hour walk followed by an hour's train ride will bring you to Yabuhara, and from there you can set out on the 3 hour scenic hike northeast to Narai post town. The route is one of the highest sections of the Nakasendo Way as it takes you up and over Torii Pass at 1200m above sea level. Your accommodation tonight is another traditional inn with tatami mat flooring and dinner using local Kiso Valley ingredients.
Overnight: Iseya
-
Day 7-9
Swap forests for temples as you journey on the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. After exploring the historic sights, you venture off the regular tourist track on the photogenic day-hike from Kibune to Kurama.
After a three-train journey, which includes a stint on the shinkansen bullet train from Nagoya, you will arrive in the former Imperial capital, Kyoto. You'll be staying in downtown Kyoto with easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shops, including Nishiki Market full of enticing shops and stalls.
The sheer number of incredible sightseeing spots can make it a challenge to know where to start, so we've included a full day's private guide with a knowledgeable local to help you get around and see everything you want. Whether you've always wanted that shot of the Golden Temple, or you'd love to wander the bamboo grove of Arashiyama, or you're keen to get away from the crowds, your guide will be on hand to ensure you get the most out of your day.
On your second full day in the city you might be ready to see a different side of Kyoto. One of our favourite half-day trips is the relatively unknown hike from the tiny village of Kibune to Kurama Onsen in the Kitayama Mountains. The two to three hour hike takes you along lantern-lined stone pathways past temples, and through the woods. We recommend treating yourself to a relaxing dip in the hot springs in Kurama to round off your hike.Overnight: Mitsui Garden Kawaramachi Jokyoji
-
Day 10
After a thorough orientation and lunch in seaside Kii-Tanabe, you'll travel to the riverside village of Yunomine Onsen for your first night on the Kumano Kodo.
And now for the Kumano Kodo!
After making the journey from Kyoto south to Kii-Tanabe, you'll start off your Kumano Kodo journey with an orientation session followed by a bus ride to Yunomine Onsen where you can leave your luggage. Then you will have the afternoon at leisure to warm up your legs and hike the 1.5 hour route to Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine before hopping on the bus back to your accommodation.Overnight: Adumaya Ryokan
-
Day 11
A short bus ride will take you from Yunomine Onsen to Ukegawa trailhead for the start of today's hike along the Kogumotori-goe trail to Koguchi.
Today's portion of the Kumano Kodo should take around five to six hours, and it features a gentle but steady climb followed by a descent into the valley. The highlight is ‘hyakken-gura', a lookout which offers incredible vistas of the Kumano Mountains – be sure to have a quick break here for photos and a spot to eat.
Overnight: Shizen-no-Ie
-
Day 12
It's the final day of the Kumano Kodo; the Ogumotori-goe is most challenging portion of the whole route, but well worth it for the rewarding views of Nachi at the end.
The 14km hike today will take around eight hours. It involves the largest elevation change of all five days' hiking, but rewards you with some gorgeous scenery and views out over the eastern coast of the Kii Peninsula. On arrival in Nachi you will be met with the majestic sight of Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall flowing from the mountain behind the vermillion pagoda.
Your accommodation tonight is located a short way from the main shrine grounds and waterfall. A tasty homecooked meal and hot spring bath await you this evening.
After checking out the next morning it's time to bid farewell to the Kumano Kodo and head north again on the four-hour journey to Osaka.Overnight: Mitaki Sanso
-
Day 13-15
Swap mountains for city as you head to the vibrant streets of Osaka for your final two nights in Japan.
Osaka has a reputation for being home to some of the best food in the country – from savoury okonomiyaki pancakes to piping hot takoyaki octopus dumplings, there is plenty for food lovers to sample during a stay in the city. We'll arrange for you to have a private food tour with a local guide, so that you can try out the very best food on offer. Your centrally located hotel is right around the corner from vibrant Dotonbori, and the nearby Shinsaibashi and Nanba areas are great places for picking up some last-minute souvenirs.
At the end of your trip you'll head out to the airport on the Nankai Rapit train in plenty of time for your flight home. We hope you have a pleasant journey.Overnight: Cross Hotel Osaka
-
Day 1-3
Immerse yourself in everything Tokyo has to offer, from the traditional Asakusa area to the bright lights of Shinjuku, and enjoy a gentle hike up Mount Takao.
Welcome to Japan! We've arranged for a shared shuttle bus to meet you at the airport and whisk you away to your accommodation in the city. We've chosen the traditional district of Asakusa for your stay in Tokyo; home to Tokyo's old temple Senso-ji and delicious restaurants and cafes, it's the perfect place to ease you gently in to your trip.
On your first full day in the city you will have the services of a professional English-speaking guide to show you the ropes. Whether you want to see all the top sights or get off the beaten track and discover some hidden gems, your guide can tailor the day to suit your interests, as well as showing you the ropes on Tokyo's enormous but incredibly efficient transportation system.
Fancy a breather from the hectic pace of the capital? On your final full day in the city you can hop on a train and head west to get to Mount Takao, a small mountain with some excellent trails and sweeping views of the Kanto Plain – and Mt Fuji if you're lucky! Although it's not as known to foreign visitors, Mount Takao is well-loved by Tokyoites as an easy day trip, and the trails are clearly marked. Just before you reach the top, be sure to stop by the majestic Yakuo-in, a Buddhist temple founded almost 1400 years ago. And if you're feeling like taking it easy, there's always a cable car to take you most of the way to the top!Overnight: Richmond Asakusa
-
Day 4
Today you'll journey into the Alps where you can marvel at the dramatic black castle of Matsumoto.
Bid farewell to Tokyo as you board a Limited Express train to take you north-west into the foothills of the Japan Alps to Matsumoto. This small city is home to its striking ‘Black Crow' castle, considered to be one of the best in the country, delicious soba noodles, and the fascinating Ukiyo-e woodblock print museum on the outskirts of the city. Take in the sights at your leisure before resting up for the first of your multi-day walks on the following day.
Overnight: Buena Vista Hotel
-
Day 5
It's time to walk in the footsteps of samurai as you set off on the first day of the old Nakasendo Way.
From Matsumoto you will head deeper into the hills on another Limited Express train to Nakatsugawa – keep your eyes open en-route for some stunning views. A short bus ride will bring you to the charming postal town of Magome with its streets lined of beautifully preserved wooden buildings selling yummy snacks and drinks, perfect for a quick pit-stop before setting off on your hike on the historic Nakasendo Way.
The walk from Magome to Tsumago is a leisurely three hours, and it takes you along clearly marked paths through forests and past tiny hamlets and rice fields, giving you a fascinating glimpse of rural Japanese life. Tonight you will be staying at a family run minshuku inn where a home-cooked dinner awaits.Overnight: Daikichi Minshuku
-
Day 6
This morning you will head further into the hills for a second day of hiking the Nakasendo Way, before arriving in the wonderfully preserved post town of Narai
Today you will be walking the second part of your two-day Nakasendo Way adventure. A gentle one hour walk followed by an hour's train ride will bring you to Yabuhara, and from there you can set out on the 3 hour scenic hike northeast to Narai post town. The route is one of the highest sections of the Nakasendo Way as it takes you up and over Torii Pass at 1200m above sea level. Your accommodation tonight is another traditional inn with tatami mat flooring and dinner using local Kiso Valley ingredients.
Overnight: Iseya
-
Day 7-9
Swap forests for temples as you journey on the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, the cultural heart of Japan. After exploring the historic sights, you venture off the regular tourist track on the photogenic day-hike from Kibune to Kurama.
After a three-train journey, which includes a stint on the shinkansen bullet train from Nagoya, you will arrive in the former Imperial capital, Kyoto. You'll be staying in downtown Kyoto with easy access to restaurants, cafes, and shops, including Nishiki Market full of enticing shops and stalls.
The sheer number of incredible sightseeing spots can make it a challenge to know where to start, so we've included a full day's private guide with a knowledgeable local to help you get around and see everything you want. Whether you've always wanted that shot of the Golden Temple, or you'd love to wander the bamboo grove of Arashiyama, or you're keen to get away from the crowds, your guide will be on hand to ensure you get the most out of your day.
On your second full day in the city you might be ready to see a different side of Kyoto. One of our favourite half-day trips is the relatively unknown hike from the tiny village of Kibune to Kurama Onsen in the Kitayama Mountains. The two to three hour hike takes you along lantern-lined stone pathways past temples, and through the woods. We recommend treating yourself to a relaxing dip in the hot springs in Kurama to round off your hike.Overnight: Mitsui Garden Kawaramachi Jokyoji
-
Day 10
After a thorough orientation and lunch in seaside Kii-Tanabe, you'll travel to the riverside village of Yunomine Onsen for your first night on the Kumano Kodo.
And now for the Kumano Kodo!
After making the journey from Kyoto south to Kii-Tanabe, you'll start off your Kumano Kodo journey with an orientation session followed by a bus ride to Yunomine Onsen where you can leave your luggage. Then you will have the afternoon at leisure to warm up your legs and hike the 1.5 hour route to Kumano Hongu Taisha shrine before hopping on the bus back to your accommodation.Overnight: Adumaya Ryokan
-
Day 11
A short bus ride will take you from Yunomine Onsen to Ukegawa trailhead for the start of today's hike along the Kogumotori-goe trail to Koguchi.
Today's portion of the Kumano Kodo should take around five to six hours, and it features a gentle but steady climb followed by a descent into the valley. The highlight is ‘hyakken-gura', a lookout which offers incredible vistas of the Kumano Mountains – be sure to have a quick break here for photos and a spot to eat.
Overnight: Shizen-no-Ie
-
Day 12
It's the final day of the Kumano Kodo; the Ogumotori-goe is most challenging portion of the whole route, but well worth it for the rewarding views of Nachi at the end.
The 14km hike today will take around eight hours. It involves the largest elevation change of all five days' hiking, but rewards you with some gorgeous scenery and views out over the eastern coast of the Kii Peninsula. On arrival in Nachi you will be met with the majestic sight of Nachi-no-Otaki waterfall flowing from the mountain behind the vermillion pagoda.
Your accommodation tonight is located a short way from the main shrine grounds and waterfall. A tasty homecooked meal and hot spring bath await you this evening.
After checking out the next morning it's time to bid farewell to the Kumano Kodo and head north again on the four-hour journey to Osaka.Overnight: Mitaki Sanso
-
Day 13-15
Swap mountains for city as you head to the vibrant streets of Osaka for your final two nights in Japan.
Osaka has a reputation for being home to some of the best food in the country – from savoury okonomiyaki pancakes to piping hot takoyaki octopus dumplings, there is plenty for food lovers to sample during a stay in the city. We'll arrange for you to have a private food tour with a local guide, so that you can try out the very best food on offer. Your centrally located hotel is right around the corner from vibrant Dotonbori, and the nearby Shinsaibashi and Nanba areas are great places for picking up some last-minute souvenirs.
At the end of your trip you'll head out to the airport on the Nankai Rapit train in plenty of time for your flight home. We hope you have a pleasant journey.Overnight: Cross Hotel Osaka
Trip Reviews
Self-Guided Adventure Honshu Hiking
Read more >We really liked how our trip was designed, a perfect balance of cities and hiking, ryokans and western hotels, and the 3 private guides (Yuji in Kyoto, Ikuko in Tokyo…
Self-Guided Adventure Honshu Hiking
Read more >there was an awful lot of train and bus travel for a two week trip but I guess it was necessary to get to these interesting, out of the way, places.
Trip Reviews
Self-Guided Adventure Honshu Hiking
Read more >We really liked how our trip was designed, a perfect balance of cities and hiking, ryokans and western hotels, and the 3 private guides (Yuji in Kyoto, Ikuko in Tokyo…
Self-Guided Adventure Honshu Hiking
Read more >there was an awful lot of train and bus travel for a two week trip but I guess it was necessary to get to these interesting, out of the way, places.
5.0 out of 5 from 10 reviews Show all Honshu Hiking Reviews
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Head north to experience Japan in autumn that is rarely seen by travellers... #AutumnLeaves #AutumnColours… twitter.com/i/web/status/1…
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