Eight days of hiking ancient trails and a deep dive into Japan’s past—Kunisaki is where adventure meets tradition, and where we swap city chaos for cedar forests and temple steps. This adventure is all about contrasts: steep climbs, smooth onsens, mountain treks, seaside towns, and days filled with history, hiking, and next-level cuisine. Think of it as a pilgrimage for people who love a challenge but also appreciate a well-earned bowl of soba (or five). We’ll hike to hidden shrines, stand in the shadow of giant Buddha carvings, soak up views that look like a Studio Ghibli backdrop, and soak in the rhythm of old Japan—one scenic, spiritual step at a time.
On the Kunisaki Peninsula, time moves differently. Ancient temple paths wind through misty forests, stone Buddhas watch over silent valleys, and rice terraces carve patterns into the hills. For eight days, we’ll follow in the footsteps of monks, climbing peaks with panoramic views, crossing hidden shrines, and soaking in onsens after days of adventure. Along the way, we’ll feast on fresh seafood, handmade soba, and steaming bowls of miso, all in settings straight out of a samurai film. It’s Japan at its most authentic—untouched, spiritual, and waiting to be explored.
Make your own way to your accommodation for tonight at the Royal Park Hotel in Fukuoka. Check-in is from 3pm. The remainder of the day is free to explore Fukuoka at your leisure. You’ll meet your guides at 6pm in the foyer of the hotel for a welcome meeting followed by a beautiful 2.5-hour Yatai night tour, where you’ll indulge in the local cuisine of Fukuoka by visiting different night stalls.
Meals: Dinner
Accommodation: Royal Park Hotel
Meet the guides at 7:30am in the hotel lobby for an early departure. This morning, we’ll set off by private transfer to the Komo Shrine. Afterwards, we’ll stroll along the Misumi Pond and park around the shrine before heading to Rakanji Temple, where a walk through the stunning Oita mountains awaits (optionally, we can take the famous Ropeway gondola up for a more scenic experience). The main hall, perched on a cliff, provides a stunning panoramic view of the surrounding valley.
Afterwards, we’ll have lunch at a traditional soba noodle restaurant before heading to the famous Ryoai rice terrace for a unique cultural experience. Here, a local terrace revitalization council chairman will teach us about traditional agriculture and lifestyle. The day ends at our accommodation in Yamaga with a nice dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 6.5 km (4 mi)
Accommodation: Hotel Yamaga Kazenosato
After breakfast, we’ll be transferred to the start of the Kunisaki Hantou Minemichi Long Trail. The route follows in the footsteps of the monks who practiced the asceticism of Rokugo Manzan. We will begin at the Kumano Magaibutsu, the oldest and largest stone cliff Buddha in Japan. Later on, we will continue along the trail through verdant forest valleys, walking across rice fields with beautiful shrines scattered throughout.
Just before lunch, we will be transferred to the Kozanji Temple, built at the end of the Heian period. This marks the end of the first section of the trail, but we will continue on to Fuki-ji Temple. Afterwards, we’ll make our way back to the hotel for a lovely traditional Japanese dinner.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 12 km (7.4 mi), 6 hours
Accommodation: Hotel Yamaga Kazenosato
The day begins with a Japanese breakfast before embarking on the ascent of Mount Inomure. The journey commences with a stone step section leading us through the Torii gate to the Nio statues. As we ascend, we’ll encounter Tateishi, an imposing rock protruding from the slope. Upon reaching the summit, breathtaking views of the green valleys below and forested hills await.
Descending into the valley below, we’ll stop for a tasty bento box lunch. Eventually, the trail will lead us to Reisenji Temple in the afternoon. Just outside the temple stands the region’s largest Buddha statue, marking the conclusion of our hike before our transfer back to the lovely Onsen hotel for dinner and relaxation.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 13 km (8 mi), 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 800 m (2,624 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Yamaga Kazenosato
Today, we’ll embark on the Kunisaki course towards Iwato-ji. After breakfast, we’ll be transferred to Saihoji no Sato. Following a brief stretch past rice fields and lush forests, we’ll arrive at Ofuda Iwaya rock formations. Descending from this point leads us into a peaceful valley with a charming farm town, before we ascend once more to encounter more rock formations. This area is adorned with more Buddhist shrines, including the Kyusento-ji Temple, once a pivotal temple of Rokugo Manzan. Here, we’ll discover the Tomb of the renowned Buddhist monk Ninmon Bosatsu.
Continuing along the trail, we’ll encounter an ancient Buddhist training site atop a stone peak, offering some of the area’s most spectacular views. A short walk from here brings us to our final destination, Iwato-ji. Established in 1283, this site boasts one of the oldest Kunisaki-stone towers in the region and hosts an annual fire festival. A local Sentouji priest will perform a special Gomadaki fire ceremony. After exploring the stunning gardens, we’ll transfer back to Kazenosato for another delicious dinner served with sake or beer.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi), 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 650 m (2,132 ft)
Accommodation: Hotel Yamaga Kazenosato
After breakfast, we’ll be brought back to Iwato-ji, where we’ve concluded the walk the day before. Our journey begins with a flat section, passing by charming farmhouses and lush green rice fields. As we traverse the valley, we’ll encounter the serene Iwato waterfall and beautiful Buddhist shrines. We’ll have lunch and go to the former Kuzuhara village, filled with fascinating history. At the foot of the hill, we’ll reach Monjusen-ji Temple, the main temple of Rokugo Manzan’s Suyama.
After the walk, we’ll depart the mainland via a short transfer to the port of Kunisaki, where a scenic boat ride awaits to transport us back 50 years in time to the island of Himeshima. Himeshima boasts beautiful green hills, beaches, a charming town, and numerous fish farms. Tonight, after dinner, we’ll stay at Yachiyo-kan, a lovely boutique hotel on the island.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 9 km (5.6 mi), 5-6 hours
Elevation gain: 600 m (1,968 ft)
Accommodation: Yachiyo-kan
The day starts with a traditional Himeshima fox dance and mask painting experience. Then we’ll delve into the art of making imokiri, a local delicacy exclusive to Himeshima. Following the class, a delicious lunch awaits. We’ll also make a stop at Ozy Espresso for coffee. In the afternoon, we will embark on a hike up Mt. Yahazudake, the island’s tallest peak, or alternatively, you can opt for a tour of the quaint town for a more leisurely experience.
Mt. Yahazudake, an ancient dormant volcano, presents a short yet steep ascent, requiring a decent level of fitness. After taking in the scenery, the descent awaits, followed by a return to the port for another scenic boat journey back to the mainland. We’ll go to our amazing hotel for the night, where chefs will prepare an extra special dinner to mark our last night.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch, dinner
Hiking: 3 km (1.9 mi), 2 hours
Accommodation: Kannawaen
This morning, after breakfast, we’ll venture to the charming town of Kitsuki. Nestled around the castle of the same name, Kitsuki is an ancient samurai settlement brimming with history. We’ll stroll along quaint streets, meander by the serene coastline, and ascend the castle steps. The castle grounds offer amazing views and beautiful gardens to explore.
Following our walk to Kitsuki, we’ll proceed to Tomaya for a traditional tea ceremony. Afterwards, we’ll visit a traditional kaiseki restaurant, where we can savor more local cuisine. Finally, at 5pm we’ll return to Fukuoka, where this incredible cultural experience comes to an end.
Meals: Breakfast, lunch
Hiking: 1.5 km (0.9 mi), 2 hours
Included:
Add-ons
Not included:
This Kunisaki trek is rated moderate, which means that a moderate level of fitness is required for this adventure. Expect to hike up to 6 hours and 13 km (8 mi) per day, while gaining up to 800 m (2,624 ft) in elevation
You can find more detailed day-by-day hiking distances and some elevation changes in the itinerary.
Looking to explore a different side of 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. 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 pricing
Kunisaki trek 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 Kunisaki trek is Fukuoka. To get there, most people fly into Fukuoka Airport (FUK). From there, you can use public transport or rent a car to reach Fukuoka.
Once you’re there, you will meet your guide at 6pm 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!
Secure your spot for 2026 with just a 10% deposit. The remaining 20% of the deposit is due by the end of 2025. Learn about our cancellation policy below.
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
Flexible
Super Flexible
