Kumano Kodo - Japan
Destination
Japan
Days
7
Grade
3/4 · Kinda Fit
Distance
60km
Accommodation
Lodge · Hotel
Start time
10:00 am
Japan is one of the most enchanting countries in the world. A place where history and the ultra-modern world coexist and work in harmony. The stunning, diverse landscape with mountains and breathtaking views, offers an array of different experiences. If you haven't had the chance to visit, now is the time.
On this tour we visit Kyoto, a city filled with traditional temples, shrines and beautiful Japanese gardens. The power of these 'zen' gardens is incredible, you'll feel at peace and relaxed (trust me). The main segment of this tour is the Kumano Kodo trail, an ancient pilgrimage route that has been used for over 1000 years. We'll spend 3 days hiking along different sections of the trail, passing through small villages, beautiful temples, and shrines. On this trail, you'll feel a special connection to the land, the culture, and the people. It truly is a magical place. The hiking days are full days taking you through majestic country so you will need to be able to hike a full day to fully enjoy these trails- which are awesome!
What's included
Accommodation & Amenities
Clean, safe, and welcoming accommodation. A home away from home with comfortable amenities.
Activities, Training & Equipment
All programme activities and equipment, including training and workshops from experienced professionals.
Experienced & qualified guides
Our guides are trained to give you the best on and off trail support.
First Aid Support
All our staff are Remote First Aid trained, have comprehensive first aid kits and carry UHF radios and PLBs when required.
Pre-departure Support
Everything you need to prepare for your trip, including visa advice, cultural awareness training, access to your dedicated pre-departure portal, and more.
Social & Fun
The TSA community is supportive and our groups are welcoming.
Transportation
To and from the airport, plus everything in between. Daily transport to your placement and back.
Field notes
Trip Highlights
Stay in traditional Japanese accommodation.
Visit the famous Fushimi Inari Taisha (shrine)
Visit a world-famous waterfall
All food and culinary experiences
Travel 320km/h with a ride on the bullet ride.
Guided by locals with years of experience and knowledge
Supported by Take Shape Adventures
Exploring both the traditional and Modern parts of Tokyo.
Get local and savour legendary, iconic flavours and dishes.
Accommodations in Western-style hotels.
All transport (airport transfers not included)
Entrance fees
English-speaking walking guide/leader
Itinerary
Day 1 Kyoto Welcome & Cultural Immersion
Our adventure begins in Kyoto, where we’ll meet at our central hotel, the same place we’ll return to on the final night. You can leave your luggage here for the day and check in when we return after exploring. We begin with a trip briefing before heading out to visit two of Kyoto’s stunning seasonal temples and gardens, soaking in centuries of history and beauty. A late afternoon guided walk through the Gion district offers a glimpse of traditional Kyoto at twilight, before returning to our hotel and enjoying a welcome dinner together. Optional pre-night available – let us know early if you'd like us to arrange it.
Activity: Cultural walking and sightseeing (Grade 2)
Distance: Approx. 5–6km on foot throughout the day
Meals · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 2 Kyoto
We take a scenic train ride to the gateway of the Kumano Kodo in Kii Tanabe and transfer our luggage. From Takijiri-oji, we begin our pilgrimage with a short but steep hike up to Takahara, a peaceful mountaintop village known as the “Village in the Mist.” Tonight we settle into a traditional inn and begin our deep dive into Japanese hospitality.
Hike: Takijiri-oji to Takahara (Grade 3)
Distance: 4km
Today is a luggage transfer day.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 3 Takahara to Chikatsuyu
We continue along the Nakahechi route through cedar forests and tiny hamlets, passing sacred shrines and tea houses once used by samurai. The path weaves through rolling terrain with a few moderate climbs and descents. We’ll arrive in Chikatsuyu by late afternoon, with time to unwind before another delicious local dinner.
Hike: Takahara to Chikatsuyu (Grade 3)
Distance: 11km
Today is a luggage transfer day.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 4 Hosshinmon to Hongu Shrine & Onsen Stay
Today’s walk begins at the symbolic Hosshinmon-oji gate and follows a gentle descent through beautiful forest toward the majestic Kumano Hongu Taisha. After time to explore the shrine and the giant Oyunohara torii gate, we’ll continue (on foot or by vehicle) to the hot spring village of Yunomine Onsen for a well-earned soak and traditional ryokan stay.
Hike: Hosshinmon-oji to Hongu Taisha + optional walk to Yunomine (Grade 3)
Distance: 7km + opt. 3km
Today is a luggage transfer day.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 5 Koguchi to Nachi Falls
The most challenging and rewarding day of the hike takes us through the dramatic Ogumotori-goe trail. With long climbs, remote forests, and sweeping views, it’s a true pilgrimage day. Our efforts are rewarded with arrival at the awe-inspiring Nachi Falls and the iconic three-story pagoda of Seiganto-ji Temple.
Hike: Koguchi to Nachi Taisha via Ogumotori-goe (Grade 4)
Distance: 14km
Today is a luggage transfer day.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 6 Return to Kyoto
After a slow morning in coastal Kii Katsuura, and maybe a stroll through the lively fish market, we return by train to Kyoto. You’ll have some free time to explore or relax before gathering for a final celebratory dinner to reflect on all you’ve accomplished and experienced.
Activity: Free time + train travel (Grade 1)
Distance: Optional walking 2–4km
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 7 Farewell or Tokyo Extension
Some of us will enjoy a final breakfast in Kyoto before heading off to the airport for return flights home, or continuing the adventure solo! For those joining the Tokyo extension, we’ll travel by bullet train to Japan’s buzzing capital for a new kind of experience: modern, fast-paced, and full of flavour. After arriving, we’ll head out for an evening orientation walk through one of Tokyo’s lively neighbourhoods, followed by dinner at a local restaurant to kick off the next leg of the journey with a culinary bang.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 8 Tokyo Extension Day 1
Some of us will enjoy a final breakfast before heading on a return flight home (or continuing the adventure alone)! The rest of us will transfer to Tokyo for an evening orientation walk and dinner at a local restaurant.
Meals · B · D Stay · Hotel
Day 9 Tokyo Extension Day 2
Lots of sightseeing today, visiting Tsukiji Outer Market, Kabuki Theather, Asakusa Sensoji Temple. After lunch at a local restaurant we'll continue visiting Ginza shopping street. Experience the real Tokyo sampling snacks, and visits to Memory lane, Kabukicho and Golden Gai.
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 10 Tokyo Extension Day 3
Enjoy a cultural walking tour of Tokyo as we explore Shibuya Crossing, Meiji Jingu shrine and Takeshitadori street and Meiji Jingu Shrine. Lunch will at a local restaurant. In the evening we embark on a Shinjuku neon light tour (Memory Lane, Kabukicho, Golden Gai)
Farewell dinner at a local pub (izakaya) in Shinjuku 3-chome
Meals · B · L · D Stay · Hotel
Day 11 Tokyo Extension Day 4
We enjoy our final tasty breakfast at our accommodation before leaving to head home or continue the adventure!
Meals · Breakfast Stay · Hotel
Additional Information
Includes
- 7 nights accommodation – a mixture of western style and traditional accommodation.
- Breakfast, lunch and dinner included – this tour will be catered by local Japanese restaurants and local accommodation venues. Food will be prepared to high standards and most dietary requirements can be catered for.
- All activities – the bike ride, the onsen spa experience
- Experienced and qualified guides – highly trained and experienced tour guides who will bring the adventures to life.
- Transport in Japan – you’ll mainly travel on public transport as that’s how they get around in Japan! You also get to board the famous Bullet Train. Each day of hiking will start with a bus trip, so you can take in some scenery before hitting the trail. This does not include airport transfer (you will need to organise transport from the airport)
- Scenery & Culture – visit ancient temples and shrines, and be guided by a knowledgeable local tour guide. Experience the world-famous Kumano Kodo Trail.
- Tokyo Extension Tour Accommodation – APA Hotel Roppongi or similar
What to Bring
- We will send an adventure pack list to help with your packing, the essentials:
- A travel bag for all your clothes (not too big and you will need to travel with this)
- A small day back pack for your jumper, water bottle etc
- A drink bottle, or two bottles on a hot day
- Medication, camera, etc…
- Hat or beanie depending on weather
- Walking poles if you normally carry them
- Walking clothes suitable for the weather on the day
Highlights
- Trek the famous Kumano trail – an ancient pilgrimage route
- Stay in traditional Japanese accommodation.
- Visit a world-famous waterfall
- All food and culinary experiences included – in the land of sushi!
- Travel 320km/h with a ride on the bullet ride – if opting for Tokyo Extension
- Guided by locals with years of experience and knowledge
- Supported by Take Shape Adventures
Tokyo Extension Tour: 4 days
- Exploring both the traditional and Modern parts of Tokyo.
- Get local and savour legendary, iconic flavours and dishes.
- All accommodations in Western-style hotels.
- All transport (airport transfers not included)
- Entrance fees
- English-speaking walking guide/leader
Accommodation
All accommodation is included. We stay in a mixture of Western hotels and traditional Japanese accommodation. Traditional Japanese accommodation may involve sleeping on a soft floor with a mattress. This is surprisingly comfortable and depending on the time of year, some floors may be heated.
Equipment
No special equipment is needed for this trip. Just your normal hiking and travel clothes. We will supply a full pack list to you.
Food
Most mornings we will have breakfast at the hotel or accommodation we are staying in. Most lunches will be on the move or on the trail, this is when bento boxes come in very handy. Dinners will be in local Japanese restaurants (in traditional style this often involves sitting on the floor with cushions). All culinary Japanese experiences are included and of course we will have some sushi!
Transport
We use public transport to get around, both trains and buses. We also briefly get to ride on the bullet train!
Testimonials
“WOW! Just wow, what a trip! From the food, the culture and the hiking, this place is magical! Exploring Kyoto on our bikes was probably one of the highlights and the onsen (spa) was very fun! We added the Tokyo tour as well which I would highly recommend.” Julie, Japan Tour 2024
Tokyo, Japan
Map & Location
Getting there
Tokyo Japan
Book your next adventure
Next departure March 14, 2027 – March 20, 2027 · From $5,695.00 per person. Still got questions? We're happy to help.
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