Accommodation
We spend eight nights in traditional guesthouses/ryokans in Japanese-style rooms (shared bathrooms) and five nights in hotels. For eight nights, we stay in ryokans, traditional inns where we experience the timeless rhythms and customs of the Japanese countryside. Ryokans, while comfortable and full of local character, do not run along the same lines as Western hotels and all have their own unique style. Some are more like Japanese B&Bs with a homestay feel and guests make their own Japanese-style beds up, while others are managed more like a hotel with bedding made up for guests. Rooms do not generally have private facilities and bedding is usually in the Japanese style with thick futon mattresses placed on tatami mats on the floor. Rooms are always doubles or twin-share but bathrooms and showers are generally communal. Please be advised, while females and males have access to separate bathrooms, inside showering and bathing facilities can lack the level of privacy you would be used to in a Western-style shared bathroom. This is very common in Japan and by staying in mostly traditional ryokans, there is the chance to have a very authentic cultural experience throughout the tour. In Kyoto, Tanabe and Tokyo, we stay in Western-style hotels with rooms that have private bathrooms. Worth knowing Single supplements are very limited and only available for five nights of the trip (three nights in Kyoto, one night in Katsuura and one night in Tokyo). Please advise at time of booking if you would like to request a single supplement (subject to availability). In Japan, often single supplements can be accommodated in either an actual single and/or double for sole use room in hotels. Onsen (Japanese public bath) For many visitors to Japan, the onsen is unfamiliar territory. An onsen is a Japanese hot spring and the bathing facilities and inns frequently situated around them. The combination of a strict bathing etiquette, that nudity is compulsory, and that the water temperature is often hotter than most hot tubs can cause some reluctance for first timers. However, once the courage is mustered, you may discover that a dip in an onsen is a highlight of your visit to Japan. We can try onsens on a few occasions throughout the trip. Please note, you may be refused entry if you have large and visible tattoos. Some accommodations may have private baths available for reservation.
Others
All transport and listed activities 8 days guided walking Low altitude throughout Travel by train, local buses and metro Luggage transfers between accommodations on some walk days as required
Guide
We use a mixture of local and international leaders, all experienced in leading international groups and have an in-depth knowledge of the country.
Meals
All breakfasts, six lunches and nine dinners are included. Japanese cuisine is usually one of the main highlights of any trip to Japan. It is based on rice with miso soup and other dishes, which are usually prepared with seasonal ingredients. Seafood is very common, and it usually comes grilled or deep fried. Sushi and sashimi aside, other staple dishes include soba or udon noodles, sukiyaki (meat, fish and vegetables cooked in broth) and yakiniku (grilled meat). The included breakfasts at the traditional guesthouses/ryokans are likely to be Japanese style. The included lunches mostly consist of bento boxes enjoyed during the walks or in some instances may be taken in small eateries where available. The included dinners are usually at ryokans (traditional guesthouses), which may include a kaiseki-style dinner, a multi-course meal including a dozen tiny dishes prepared with locally sourced, seasonal ingredients. When food is not included, your leader can always recommend the best local eateries and arrange some group meals for a full immersion in the varied and excellent cuisine of Japan. Please note, the availability of certain specialised products for restricted diets, eg gluten-free, vegetarian or vegan, is minimal or non-existent in Japan. However, there are several vegan restaurants in Kyoto and Tokyo. It may be a good idea to bring with you some foodstuffs that you normally consume or to supplement meals with snacks purchased in the local convenience stores. Please advise us at the time of booking if you have any specific dietary requirements.
Transport
Transport is by train, local buses and metro. It is worth mentioning that the trains in Japan are both highly efficient and very comfortable so punctuality is requested throughout. Please note, you are required to carry your own baggage on and off trains and buses and through stations. There are some days during the hiking days where luggage is transferred from one accommodation to the next so you do not have to carry your main luggage during any of the hikes. As this trip stays in many smaller, rural locations, there are short walks involved from stations/bus stops to accommodations where needed. 2024 departures: Transfers are no longer available on this trip. Public transport in Japan is excellent, efficient and the expected mode of transport for both the local people and visitors. It is increasingly easy to use and there is English signage everywhere.
Not included:
Insurance
Insurance is not included
Flights
International flights are not included
Optional
Other activities and services not included
Others
— Travel insurance — Single accommodation (single supplements valid 5 nights only) — Visas or vaccinations — Arrival & departure transfers (not available on this tour)
Start planning your experience
Itinerary of your trip Japan’S Kumano Kodo
- Day 1 Day 1: Start Kyoto
Day 1: Start Kyoto
- Day 2 Day 2: Hike To The Kibune Shrine; Onto Kurama Temple; Return To Kyoto (Breakfast)
Day 2: Hike To The Kibune Shrine; Onto Kurama Temple; Return To Kyoto (Breakfast)
- Day 3 Day 3: Walk On The Ancient Yamanobe-No-Michi (Breakfast)
Day 3: Walk On The Ancient Yamanobe-No-Michi (Breakfast)
Experience Style
Mixed
There will be challenging activities such as hiking, biking, canyoning and trekking, but you’re also going to have other means of transportation and relaxed moments to just chill.
Accomodation level
Medium
This accommodation includes essential services like a hot shower, electricity, and a nice and comfy bed.
Experience Type
Small Group
You’ll be accompanied by a small group of travelers just like you.
Physical Rating
Average
There are several physical activities that last from 2 to 6 hours in easy terrains, low altitude flats, or water experiences. Please ask if you’re not sure this applies to you.
Age range
Min: 16 / Max: 99
Age range allowed for this experience.
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