Included: Experienced Japanese and English-speaking hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area 8-day Basho Tohoku walk with flexible walking options each day Accommodation for 7 nights in authentic hotels and lodges (double occupancy) All meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners Complimentary sake, beer, or soft drink with dinners Luggage transfers (this is a pack-free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry) Private vehicle transfers (no trains) Experiences as in the itinerary: Art of Bonsai Demonstration Boat cruise Shiogama Traditional dance performance Traditional Shinto ritual at the Dewa Sanzan shrine Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout): Single occupancy room Not included: International or domestic flights Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges Special dietary requirements Visa and passport fees Personal expenses Guide gratuities — optional Insurance — mandatory, available to add at checkout

How fit do I need to be?

To join this Japan walking tour, good fitness is required . You’ll be hiking for 7 days in a row, and the most you’ll cover in a day is 10.8 km (6.7 mi) . The toughest day is the ascent of Mt Haguro, which involves 2,446 stone steps and some steep, rocky sections on the descent. Most other days feature moderate terrain on well-formed paths, village roads, and forest trails, with flexible walking options available each day for those who’d prefer a shorter route. Want to see what else is there in the area? D iscover more Japan walking tours here !

What do I need to bring?

Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring: Small day pack for items you might need throughout the day Hiking poles — optional Passport, visa, and indemnity form Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity) Lightweight hiking boots or shoes Comfortable hiking clothes Spare clothes for layering Waterproof rain jacket Sunhat Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.) Headlamp or flashlight Sunglasses Camera — optional (but recommended) 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. Your luggage will be transferred from one point to another, so you don’t need to worry about hauling your luggage with you. You’ll receive a detailed packing list before your departure.

Group sizes and age requirements

Group sizes and pricing For this Basho Tohoku walk, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 9:1. It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants. Solo travelers can join this adventure and either pay the single supplement at checkout or share a room. If you choose to share a room, your guides will try to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender.If no match is found by around 8 weeks before departure, you will be required to pay the single supplement. A Basho Tohoku walk can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements. Min. age requirements If you are older than 18, you’re good to go. Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Basho Tohoku walk on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian. If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.

Is a single occupancy room available?

The price for this Basho Tohoku walk is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee . You can add it to your booking at checkout. If you’re a solo traveller happy to share, we’ll do our best to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we’re unable to find a suitable match closer to departure, the single supplement will apply.

Getting there and meeting location

The starting point of your Basho Tohoku walk is Sendai. To get there, it’s recommended you fly into Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo and take the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) to Sendai (1.5 hours journey). Please plan to arrive in the area a day before your adventure starts. Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 7:30am on Day 1 in the foyer of the Hotel GrandBach Sendai. While your guides recommend staying in this hotel prior to your adventure, please note that it is not included in the price.

Safety measures and insurance

Covering all your bases with insurance is mandatory. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout. Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors 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.

Check out Early bird options for best sellers here

SENDAI | JAPAN

Basho Tohoku Walk: Hike the Japanese Poet’s Trail

8 days | Easy to Moderate

From $4,788 ()

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In 1689, the Japanese haiku master Matsuo Basho ditched city life and headed north with a notebook. What he found there turned into one of Japan’s greatest literary works—and that’s exactly why we’ll retrace his steps. Over the course of 8 days, we’ll discover the sacred mountain temples and natural wonders of the Tohoku region. Between learning family bonsai secrets and cruising past pine islands in Matsushima Bay, climbing to monastery feasts on Mount Haguro and drifting down the Mogami River to the sound of folk songs, we might just get what kept Basho’s brush moving. These days, the poet’s journey comes with some upgrades—like luggage that finds its way to our accommodations—but the magic that caught Basho’s eye? That hasn’t changed a bit.

Adventure Highlights

The footsteps of the wise: Hike the storied paths of Japan’s greatest haiku poet through forests, shrines, and river valleys
Local secrets: Discover the art of bonsai, join a Shinto ritual, and sail through Japan’s most scenic bay
Onsen-sational stays: Unwind in traditional accommodations with cozy rooms, onsens (natural hot springs), and local cuisine

Duration

8 days

Season

April through October

Group size

Up to 12 people

The adventure, day by day

Download itineraries

Discover what made a grumpy poet write Japan's most famous travel diary! On this 8-day adventure through northern Japan, we'll follow Matsuo Basho's footsteps from coastal Sendai through the mountains of Tohoku. Each day brings something that's survived the centuries: learning tree-shaping secrets at a bonsai workshop, floating through the iconic Matsushima Bay and Mogami River, and hiking to centuries-old temples where monks still follow the old ways. With experienced guides handling all logistics, accommodations and meals included, and our bags moving magically between traditional inns and temple lodgings, we can focus on what matters—collecting stories of our own where some of Japan's best tales began.

Day 1: Arrival in Fukushima

Arrive at Sansuiso, a traditional ryokan nestled in the scenic Tsuchiyu Onsen area, where modern comforts blend seamlessly with timeless Japanese traditions. The ryokan is known for its soothing hot spring baths and locally sourced cuisine. At 6:30 pm, we meet our guides in the foyer for a welcome dinner featuring local cuisine and wine.

Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Sansuiso ryokan, Tsuchiyu Onsen

Day 2: Bonsai visit and walk up Mt Issaikyozan

We meet our guides at 8 am and head south through the landscapes of Fukushima Prefecture. First stop is the home of Bonsai Abe, where we explore the family’s tradition and philosophy of bonsai artistry—how forms are shaped to reflect natural forces like rain, wind, snow, and erosion. From there, we set off on a walk up Mt Issaikyozan, taking in sweeping views of Mt Azuma-Kofuji, an extinct volcano with a striking crater often compared to Mt Fuji, before reaching Goshikinuma Pond, famous for its vivid blue-green hues caused by volcanic minerals. We return to Sansuiso to relax, soak in the onsen, and enjoy dinner.

Meals: Dinner
Hiking: 6.6 km (4.1 mi)
Elevation: +380 m (+1,247 ft)
Accommodation: Sansuiso ryokan, Tsuchiyu Onsen

Day 3: Walk along the Onsen trail

After a traditional Japanese breakfast, we transfer to the start of the Onsen Trail and head deep into Bandai-Asahi National Park, walking through lush forests and rolling foothills toward Dake Onsen—a hot spring town that has welcomed visitors for over 1,200 years. We learn about its history during the Edo period and its celebrated sake culture, and trace the journey of the spring water through Japan’s longest onsen pipeline before it reaches the baths. We finish the walk with a well-earned soak, followed by lunch at a local restaurant and a dinner of seasonal dishes back at the ryokan.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6.6 km (4.1 mi)
Accommodation: Sansuiso ryokan, Tsuchiyu Onsen

Day 4: Boat cruise and walk in Matsushima

After breakfast, we travel to Shiogama and board a boat for a scenic cruise through Matsushima Bay—one of Japan’s celebrated “Three Views,” dotted with hundreds of pine-covered islands. On land, we visit Zuigan-ji Temple, exploring ancient caves carved into the cliffs by monks for ascetic retreats, then move on to Entsu-in Temple, known for its serene gardens and heart-shaped pond. We continue to Fukuurajima Island via the picturesque red-lacquered Fukuurabashi Bridge. The day ends with dinner and a glass of wine or soft drink at Hotel Matsushima Taikanso.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Accommodation: Hotel Matsushima Taikanso

Day 5: Walk through the Hiraizumi UNESCO World Heritage area

After breakfast, we board a boat for a 90-minute cruise along Genbikei Gorge before beginning our walk through the Hiraizumi UNESCO World Heritage Area. We visit Motsu-ji Temple, renowned for its 12th-century Pure Land Buddhist garden, and Takkoku-no-Iwaya Bishamondo, a temple carved directly into the rock face. The route continues to Chuson-ji Temple—the spiritual heart of Hiraizumi, a city that once rivalled Kyoto in cultural importance—where we learn about the powerful Fujiwara clan and the haiku Basho composed here. We end the evening with dinner at Kajitsu no Mori and a traditional dance performance at Ichinoseki Onsen Yamazakura Momonoyu.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: 10.8 km (6.7 mi)
Accommodation: Kajitsu no Mori

Day 6: Walk the Basho trail

After breakfast, we transfer to Naruko Onsen Station and set off on a 5 km walk to the village of Mogomi, passing rice paddies, small farmhouses, and cedar forests. We stop for lunch at the Naruko Gorge Rest House with views over the gorge, then continue to Kawahata Shrine before following the historic trail to Sakaida—a 5 km route tracing the footsteps of centuries-old travellers through moss-covered stone paths, shaded forest, and open ridgelines. We settle in for the night at Shukubo Daishinbo, a traditional temple lodging, and share dinner together in the tranquil mountain setting.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 10 km (6.2 mi)
Elevation: +150 m (+492 ft)
Accommodation: Shukubo Daishinbo (temple lodging)

Day 7: Mt Haguro

After breakfast, we head to Mt Haguro—one of the three sacred peaks of the Dewa Sanzan—and ascend 2,446 stone steps through an ancient cedar forest on what is known as “the mountain of the present.” A pilgrimage site for over 1,400 years, the mountain holds deep spiritual significance, and at the summit we pause at Dewa Sanzan Shrine before sitting down to Shojin Ryori, the traditional vegetarian cuisine of the Yamabushi monks who still train here. In the afternoon, we transfer to Ginzan Onsen and check in to Ginzanso, where we unwind over a dinner of seasonal, locally sourced ingredients.

Meals: Breakfast, dinner
Hiking: 8 km (5 mi)
Accommodation: Ginzanso, Ginzan Onsen

Day 8: Walk through Ginzan Onsen and farewell

After breakfast at Ginzanso, we take a leisurely stroll through one of Japan’s most atmospheric towns—wooden hot spring inns lining the Ginzan River, old-fashioned gas street lamps, colourful Kote-e paintings on inn walls, and snowflake-tiled roads that feel like a step back in time. We soak our feet at the “Warashiyu” footbath springs along the river and browse the town’s cafes and shops. The trip concludes with a celebratory farewell lunch in Ginzan before we transfer back to Sendai, arriving at approximately 3 pm.

Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 4 km (2.5 mi)

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Accommodation

Authentic ryokans & lodgings

We stay at a carefully selected mix of traditional ryokans and unique lodgings that put you right at the heart of Japanese culture. For three nights, Sansuiso—a charming ryokan nestled in the Tsuchiyu Onsen area—sets the tone with its soothing hot spring baths, breathtaking views, and exquisite local cuisine. In Matsushima, Hotel Matsushima Taikanso overlooks the scenic bay, with open-air baths and restaurants serving fresh seasonal fare. After the Hiraizumi day, we check in to Kajitsu no Mori, where spacious rooms with forest views come with their own cypress onsen bath. The night on the Basho Trail is spent at Shukubo Daishinbo, a historic temple lodging steeped in mountain worship and yamabushi culture. Finally, we close the tour at Ginzanso in Ginzan Onsen—a refined retreat blending modern comfort with traditional Japanese aesthetics, set in one of the country’s most enchanting hot spring towns.

Adventure, packed to go

Basho Tohoku Walk: Hike the Japanese Poet’s Trail

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Meet your guides

Seasoned pros, local legends, and passionate adventurers—your trip is in the best hands.

5.00

Tetsuo

Tetsuo is a fantastic guide for adventures and tours in Japan. He is kind and patient, and has heaps of knowledge that he shares with people in a gentle and generous manner. His English is perfect.

Things to know

Included:
- - Experienced Japanese and English-speaking hiking guides with extensive knowledge of the area
  - 8-day Basho Tohoku walk with flexible walking options each day
  - Accommodation for 7 nights in authentic hotels and lodges (double occupancy)
  - All meals: 7 breakfasts, 7 lunches, 7 dinners
  - Complimentary sake, beer, or soft drink with dinners
  - Luggage transfers (this is a pack-free fully supported walk with no heavy packs to carry)
  - Private vehicle transfers (no trains)
  - Experiences as in the itinerary:
    
    Art of Bonsai Demonstration
    
    Boat cruise Shiogama
    
    Traditional dance performance
    
    Traditional Shinto ritual at the Dewa Sanzan shrine
Add-ons (pricing shown at checkout):
- - Single occupancy room
Not included:
- - International or domestic flights
  - Airport transfers, taxes, and excess baggage charges
  - Special dietary requirements
  - Visa and passport fees
  - Personal expenses
  - Guide gratuities — optional
  - Insurance — mandatory, available to add at checkout
To join this Japan walking tour, good fitness is required. You’ll be hiking for 7 days in a row, and the most you’ll cover in a day is 10.8 km (6.7 mi).

The toughest day is the ascent of Mt Haguro, which involves 2,446 stone steps and some steep, rocky sections on the descent. Most other days feature moderate terrain on well-formed paths, village roads, and forest trails, with flexible walking options available each day for those who’d prefer a shorter route.

Want to see what else is there in the area? Discover more Japan walking tours here!
Here’s a list of the equipment you need to bring:
- - Small day pack for items you might need throughout the day
  - Hiking poles — optional
  - Passport, visa, and indemnity form
  - Water bottle or hydration bladder (2L capacity)
  - Lightweight hiking boots or shoes
  - Comfortable hiking clothes
  - Spare clothes for layering
  - Waterproof rain jacket
  - Sunhat
  - Toiletries (sunscreen, hand sanitizer, bug spray, tissues, etc.)
  - Headlamp or flashlight
  - Sunglasses
  - Camera — optional (but recommended)
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. Your luggage will be transferred from one point to another, so you don’t need to worry about hauling your luggage with you.

You’ll receive a detailed packing list before your departure.

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Group sizes and pricing
- - For this Basho Tohoku walk, the usual client-to-guide ratio is 9:1.
  - It takes a minimum of 4 people for this tour to operate. The maximum group size is set at 12 participants.
  - Solo travelers can join this adventure and either pay the single supplement at checkout or share a room. If you choose to share a room, your guides will try to match you with another solo traveler of the same gender.If no match is found by around 8 weeks before departure, you will be required to pay the single supplement.
A Basho Tohoku walk can be arranged for larger groups. Contact us to make arrangements.

Min. age requirements
- - If you are older than 18, you’re good to go.
  - Minors younger than 18 may be permitted to join the Basho Tohoku walk on a case-by-case basis, but must be in the presence of a parent or legal guardian.
If your group has participants under the age of 18, contact us prior to booking to make arrangements.
The price for this Basho Tohoku walk is based on twin-share rooms, but a single occupancy room can be arranged at an additional fee. You can add it to your booking at checkout.

If you’re a solo traveller happy to share, we’ll do our best to match you with another solo traveller of the same gender. If we’re unable to find a suitable match closer to departure, the single supplement will apply.
The starting point of your Basho Tohoku walk is Sendai. To get there, it’s recommended you fly into Haneda Airport (HND) in Tokyo and take the Tohoku Shinkansen (bullet train) to Sendai (1.5 hours journey). Please plan to arrive in the area a day before your adventure starts.

Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 7:30am on Day 1 in the foyer of the Hotel GrandBach Sendai. While your guides recommend staying in this hotel prior to your adventure, please note that it is not included in the price.
Covering all your bases with insurance is mandatory. To make your booking and traveling experience as carefree as possible, you’ll be offered to simply insure your trip with Redpoint at checkout.

Redpoint—the official 57hours insurance partner—tailors 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.
Deposits
You can secure one of the set dates with a 30% deposit upon booking. The remaining 70% of the trip price is to be paid 90 days prior to departure, at the latest.

Cancellations
Booking fees are non-refundable in all cases. During checkout, however, you can choose one of 57hours’ flexibility options:

Basic
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a 70% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-89 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 90 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 60-89 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, there is no refund.
Super Flexible
- - In case of cancellation within 48 hours after booking, the amount paid is fully refundable.
  - For cancellations 60 or more days before the trip, you are eligible for a full refund of the trip price.
  - For cancellations 0-59 days before the trip, you are eligible for a 50% refund of the trip price.

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