We’re talking two legendary trails, 16 days, and one pretty epic adventure. Step onto the sacred Kumano Kodo, where monks have walked for over 1,000 years, then follow the Nakasendo Way, a route once ruled by samurai. Expect misty forests, jaw-dropping waterfalls, and villages that look like a time machine dropped them off from the Edo period. But don’t worry—this isn’t a history lesson with bad lodging. We’re serving up every meal, 4-star (and up) stays, and onsens so good you’ll wish you had one at home. Let’s walk through Japan’s past while living our best present!
Welcome to Osaka! The participants arrive independently, with flights arranged on their own. For those looking to experience Japan’s famous high-speed rail, an option is to fly into Tokyo and take the Shinkansen to Osaka. After checking in at the Aloft Hotel Dojima, part of the Marriott Group, the evening is free to explore Osaka’s lively Dotonbori district, known for its neon lights, street food, and entertainment.
Accommodation: Aloft Hotel Dojima (Marriott Group)
We begin the day with a morning transfer to Koyasan, a sacred mountain and the heart of Shingon Buddhism. A guided sightseeing tour takes us through historic temple complexes and moss-covered cemeteries, offering insight into Japan’s spiritual traditions. We then embark on a walk through ancient cedar forests, following a centuries-old pilgrimage route. The trail ends at Daimon Gate, the impressive entrance to Koyasan. In the afternoon, we’ll participate in a peaceful meditation session led by a resident monk.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 11 km (6.8 mi), 3 hours
Elevation gain: 350 m (1,148 ft)
Accommodation: Rengejoin Lodge, Koyasan
The morning starts with a traditional vegetarian breakfast at our temple lodging, followed by a transfer to Takijiri-Oji, the starting point of the revered Kumano Kodo trail. At the visitor center, we learn about the pilgrimage before beginning a challenging ascent through native forests. The hike rewards us with spectacular views and leads us to Takahara Village, a picturesque hamlet with stunning mountain scenery.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 12.6 km (7.8 mi), 3-4.5 hours
Elevation gain: 357 m (1,171 ft)
Accommodation: Takahara Organic Lodge
Today’s shorter but scenic hike takes us through towering cedar forests and along panoramic ridges. Along the way, we stop at the statue of Emperor Kazan and visit Chikatsuyu-oji Shrine, an important pilgrimage site. After completing the hike, we transfer to Watarase Onsen, where we unwind in soothing thermal hot springs.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 5 km (3.1 mi), 2-3 hours
Elevation gain: 150 m (492 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri
We follow a sacred path through quiet forests and traditional villages, making our way to Hongu Taisha, one of the three grand shrines of the Kumano Kodo. Here, we admire the towering 33.9-meter (111-foot) torii gate, the largest in Japan. From there, we continue to the historic Yunomine Onsen, a hot spring town where pilgrims have bathed for centuries.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 4 hours
Elevation gain: 100 m (328 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri
Our journey takes us on a steady climb to Hyakken-gura, a scenic viewpoint overlooking lush valleys and rolling mountains. From here, we descend through dense pilgrimage forests before arriving at the rural village of Koguchi, surrounded by tranquil nature.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8.1 mi), 4-5 hours
Elevation gain: 420 m (1,378 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Sasayuri
Today’s hike is the most demanding, featuring a challenging ascent through thick forest trails. We press on toward the breathtaking Nachi Taisha Shrine, a sacred site overlooking Japan’s tallest waterfall, the 133-meter (436-foot) Nachi Falls. After exploring the area, we transfer to Kii-Katsuura, a charming fishing village known for its fresh seafood.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 14.5 km (9 mi), 8 hours
Ascent: +1,260 m (+4,134 ft)
Descent: -930 m (-3,051 ft)
Accommodation: Yukai Resort Koshinoyu
We take a serene boat cruise down the Kumano River, retracing the route once used by pilgrims. Arriving at the Kumano Hayatama Taisha Grand Shrine, a UNESCO World Heritage site, we explore its sacred grounds before transferring back to Osaka for the night.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Accommodation: Aloft Hotel Dojima
We take a leisurely walk through the iconic vermillion Torii gates of Fushimi Inari Shrine, one of Kyoto’s most photogenic spots. Later in the afternoon, we immerse ourselves in Japanese culture with a tea ceremony, dressing in traditional kimonos for an authentic experience.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 3 hours
Accommodation: The Royal Park Hotel Kyoto Sanjo
The day begins with a visit to Hikone Castle, a designated National Treasure, where we explore its well-preserved samurai-era architecture. In the afternoon, we’ll travel to Ena and take part in a Japanese woodblock art class, learning a centuries-old artistic technique.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 3-6 km (1.9-3.7 mi), 3 hours
Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn, Ena
We traverse historic post towns and scenic rice paddies, following an ancient trade route. The day’s highlight is a visit to the dramatic Naegi Castle Ruins, perched on a rocky hilltop with commanding views of the surrounding valley.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 14 km (8.7 mi), 5 hours
Accommodation: Ichikawa Inn, Ena
We step back in time as we hike through the beautifully preserved Edo-era post towns of Magome and Tsumago. Along the way, we pause at a traditional firepit house, where travelers once rested centuries ago.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi), 4 hours
Elevation gain: 461 m (1,512 ft)
Accommodation: Maruya Inn, Tsumago
We continue our journey along the scenic Yogawamichi Path, winding through dense cedar forests and past tranquil mountain streams. This route, once traveled by samurai messengers, offers a peaceful escape into nature. In the afternoon, we’ll visit Kiso-Fukushima, a historic post town known for its well-preserved Edo-period architecture. An optional sake brewery tour provides a glimpse into the art of Japanese rice wine-making.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8.1 mi), 4 hours
Elevation gain: 669 m (2,195 ft)
Accommodation: Tsutaya Inn, Kiso Fukushima
Today, we embark on a sacred hike along the Ontake pilgrimage route, a trail used for centuries by mountain ascetics seeking spiritual enlightenment. The path leads us through ancient forests and past waterfalls used for purification rituals. Along the way, we pause to take in breathtaking views of Mount Ontake, one of Japan’s most revered peaks.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6 km (3.7 mi), 4.5 hours
Elevation gain: 323 m (1,060 ft)
Accommodation: Tsutaya Tokinoyado Retreat
Our hike takes us through the historic Torii Pass, a forested mountain trail connecting the old post towns of Yabuhara and Narai. Along the way, we pass through towering cypress trees and traditional Torii gates, marking the entrance to sacred Shinto grounds. Upon arrival in Narai, we have free time to explore its beautifully preserved Edo-era streets, lined with wooden merchant houses and charming tea shops. In the afternoon, we’ll transfer to Karuizawa, a scenic mountain resort town.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi), 3 hours
Elevation gain: 373 m (1,224 ft)
Accommodation: Ancient Hotel Karuizawa
Our final hike brings us to Shiraito Waterfall, a stunning cascade known for its delicate white streams flowing over moss-covered rock formations. We then continue toward Usui Pass, where we visit Kumanokotai Shrine, a unique temple straddling the border between two prefectures. After soaking in the panoramic views, we take a return transfer to Tokyo, marking the end of our journey.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi), 3 hours
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Add-ons:
Not included:
This Kumano Kodo Nakasendo Way walk is rated moderate, which means that a moderate level of fitness is required for this adventure. Expect to hike up to 8 hours and 14.5 km (9 mi) per day, while gaining up to 1,260 m (4,134 ft) in elevation.
You can find more detailed day-by-day hiking distances and elevation changes in the itinerary.
Looking to explore a different adventure in Japan? Check out this trail hike!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
Dress comfortably and for the weather in clothes you can move in. We suggest bringing clothing appropriate for the season. Layers are best and don’t wear jeans.
Group sizes and pricing
Kumano Kodo Nakasendo Way walk can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.
Min. age requirements
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The starting point of your Kumano Kodo Nakasendo Way walk is Osaka. To get there, most people fly into Kansai International Airport (KIX). From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Osaka.
Once you’re there, you will meet your guide on Day 2 at 7:30am in the foyer of the hotel.
Medical and travel protection is mandatory for this adventure. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, simply choose Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner!
Redpoint tailors their protection packages for adventure travel, offering a comprehensive travel program, even in remote locations. Trip cancellation, natural disasters, pandemic coverage, medical evacuation, primary medical expenses—regardless of the travel interruption that may happen, Redpoint will have you covered.
Once your booking is confirmed and your trip is paid in full, you will be offered to purchase Redpoint’s protection. If you need any help or require more information, let us know and we will be happy to help!