A day of breathtaking landscapes awaits as we journey to Mount Fuji and its stunning surroundings. Start with the serene Lake Kawaguchiko, where Fuji’s reflection shimmers on the water. Climb 398 steps to the Chureito Pagoda for one of Japan’s most iconic views. Then, enjoy a scenic drive along the Ashinoko Skyline,  to capture postcard-perfect panoramas of Fuji and the Five Lakes region.

We return to Tokyo in the evening.

Transport: Private charter bus
Meals included: Breakfast, Traditional Lunch

With backpacks ready, we set off on a three-day journey along the Nakasendo Trail, tracing the ancient route once traveled by samurai and merchants. 

We will walk between beautifully preserved rural post towns with wooden inns, cobbled streets, and rice paddies, offering a glimpse into Japan’s rural past.

Staying in traditional ryokans, we’ll experience warm hospitality and home-cooked meals. The trail is one of the most scenic hikes, called the Living Museum of Japan, and winds through forests, mountain passes, and quiet villages.

On the third day of the route, after we finish the hiking trail in Magome, we will have a leisurely lunch and take a bus to the train station to catch the Shinkansen to Kyoto, where our next adventure awaits.

Daily distances: 7 - 14 km / 4 - 9 miles (3-4 hrs daily)

Daily elevations:  Insignificant ~1500 feet gain and drop

Lodging: traditional ryokans, private 2-ppl sharing rooms with onsens

Meals included: 3 Breakfasts, 3 Lunches, 3 Dinners

Today we will dive into the timeless beauty of Kyoto, once Japan’s imperial capital and a city of exquisite architecture and profound spiritual heritage. 

Our full-day guided walk takes us through serene Zen rock gardens, and ancient shrines, revealing the essence of Japan’s cultural heart. We’ll stroll beneath the iconic torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, where the mysterious fox statues guard the sacred pathways.

Adding to the experience, we’ll step back in time by wearing traditional kimonos and capturing stunning group photos in the setting of a historic temple.

As the evening falls, we enter the enchanting world of Gion, Kyoto’s legendary Geisha district, for an exclusive dining experience in the company of an authentic Geisha, a rare and unforgettable glimpse into Japan’s traditions.

Meals included: Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

Transport: private van

Step into the serene world of Mount Koya, the spiritual heart of Japanese Buddhism. An overnight stay at pilgrimage lodging (shukubo), a rare opportunity to experience the peaceful monastic life and connect with the sacred atmosphere of this revered mountain.

After an early breakfast, we check out from our hotel in Kyoto, leaving the main luggage in storage and bringing only essentials for the night. The journey to Koyasan takes approx 3hrs by subway, cable car and public bus.

To get to our temple guesthouse,  we will embark on a scenic hike through ancient forested paths, following in the footsteps of monks and pilgrims. where we check-in and settle into our traditional rooms. Onsen baths are available for the guests.

As the day winds down, we gather in the temple’s dining hall for a humble vegetarian dinner, prepared in the style of Buddhist monks. A night in Koyasan is more than just a stay—it’s a spiritual experience that leaves lasting memories.

During our stay, there is a chance to join the following ceremonies at the shrine:

🙏 Ajikan “watching or meditating on the character A,” which symbolizes the Cosmic Sun Buddha,  or to try hand copying Buddhist sutras

🙏 Shakyo, hand copying the sutras as a form of meditation, can bring the practitioner peace of mind

🙏 Gomakito (or Homa) fire ritual, performed to destroy negative energies, detrimental thoughts, and desires, and for the making of secular requests and blessings

As the sun begins to set, we visit the Okunoin Cemetery, Japan’s largest and most sacred burial site, where thousands of moss-covered tombstones and towering cedar trees create an unforgettable atmosphere. Walking through the lantern-lit path to the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the revered Buddhist monk who founded Shingon Buddhism, is a deeply moving experience.

We will return in Kyoto the next evening and stay in the same hotel.

Walking distance Day 7 & 8:  up to 14 miles

Elevation gain:  up to 800m/ 2600 feet

Meals:  2 Breakfasts & 1 Dinner

Step back in time as we explore Nara, Japan’s ancient capital, on a guided walk. Admire the impressive five-story pagoda and visit the historic Todaiji Temple, home to Japan’s largest Great Buddha statue.

At Nara Park, meet over 1,000 friendly, free-roaming deer, considered sacred messengers of the gods. Enjoy the chance to feed them and snap some fun selfies with these charming locals!

For lunch, a hands-on sushi-making workshop awaits, where you’ll prepare and enjoy your own delicious creation—an experience that’s as fun as it is tasty!

In the afternoon, we continue our journey to Osaka by train.

Meals included: Breakfast & self-made sushi lunch.

Spend your final morning in Japan exploring the vibrant city of Osaka at your own pace. Visit the iconic Osaka Castle, a symbol of the city's rich history, or take a last stroll through its bustling streets. 

A private group shuttle will take us to Osaka Airport for our flight back home, bringing an unforgettable journey to a close.