Active Adventure in Japan: Hiking Trails, Hot Springs & Iconic Landmarks - 16 Days

Day 1: Arrive in Tokyo, Food Tour of Shinjuku

Welcome to the vibrant capital of Japan, Tokyo! Meet your driver outside the airport and transfer to your hotel, where you can relax until this evening's food tour. When it's time, head to the bustling district of Shinjuku to visit an omakase sushi restaurant, where skilled sushi chefs curate a personalized tasting menu. Take a seat at the counter and watch as the chef meticulously prepares each piece of sushi using the freshest seasonal ingredients. End the night by testing your cooking skills as you grill thinly sliced pieces of Wagyu beef, renowned for its exceptional marbling, tenderness, and rich flavor.

Day 2: Full-Day Tour of Tokyo

Join your guide this morning for a full day exploring Tokyo's iconic landmarks, starting at the Meiji Jingu Shrine, built in 1920 to commemorate Emperor Meiji and Empress Shoken. Step through the towering torii gate into the expansive grounds enveloped in a lush forest. Follow the gravel path to the main complex to take in the grandeur of traditional Japanese architecture and witness solemn Shinto ceremonies. Participate in a ritual yourself by praying and leaving an offering at the shrine before continuing to the Tsukiji Outer Fish Market, a bustling hub for food enthusiasts.

Navigate the narrow lanes lined with stalls offering a variety of seafood-heavy dishes, such as fresh sushi or grilled scallops. Once you've had your fill, continue to the East Gardens of the Imperial Palace to stroll along the meandering paths and look at the traditional tea houses, scenic ponds, and picturesque bridges. Another highlight is a stop at Senso-ji, the oldest temple in the city, built in 645 CE. Walk down Nakamise-dori, a busy shopping street, to get to the main hall adorned with sacred artifacts. On your way out, pick up an omikuji to read your fortune and end the tour.

Day 3: Full-Day Tour of the Fuji Five Lakes Region, Transfer to Hakone

Say goodbye to Tokyo this morning as you transfer 1.5 hours to the Fuji Five Lakes region to see Mount Fuji from Arakurayama Sengen Park. Ascend to the Chureito Pagoda perched on the hillside for panoramic views of the snowcapped mountain surrounded by seasonal foliage (like pink cherry blossoms if you visit in spring). Trek back down the hill to visit the charming village of Oshino Hakkai, home to eight spring-fed ponds surrounded by lush greenery and traditional thatched-roof houses. 

Walk through the village and take in the serene atmosphere while you enjoy breathtaking views of Mount Fuji reflected in the crystal-clear waters. In the afternoon, jump on a boat and cruise across the tranquil waters of Lake Kawaguchi, passing charming lakeside villages set against the backdrop of the towering mountain. If you're not a fan of boats, you can take a ride on the Mount Fuji Panoramic Ropeway instead.

As the cable car ascends, enjoy sweeping views of the lake, the lush greenery, and the picturesque villages. After thoroughly appreciating the mountain's beauty, start the 1.5-hour journey to Hakone, renowned for its hot springs and natural beauty, stopping at Fuji Gotemba Distillery on the way. Step inside and learn about the meticulous whisky-making process, from the malting to the fermentation and distillation stages. Sample the different malt and grain whiskies before completing the drive to Hakone to settle into your new hotel.

Day 4: Hike Mount Ashigara, Explore Hakone on Your Own

Enjoy a nourishing breakfast at the hotel to prepare for your 3.7-mile (6 km) hike up Mount Ashigara, also known as Mount Kintoki, this morning. Start the trek at Kintoki-jinja, a shrine nestled amid the vibrant greenery, where you can pause to seek blessings for the ascent ahead. Follow the path through the vibrant torii gate as it winds through ancient cedar forests and bamboo groves. When you reach the summit, you'll be rewarded with panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and the distant Mount Fuji if it's clear enough. 

After trekking down the mountain, return to your hotel to change, then venture back out to explore Hakone on your own. If you just want to relax, visit one of the many onsens, a traditional hot spring and bathing facility, scattered around town to unwind. Those who want to discover more of the area can enjoy a boat cruise across Lake Ashi to see Mount Fuji again and the towering torii gate of Hakone Shrine sitting on the shore. In the evening, sit down for dinner at one of the restaurants lining the lake serving fresh seafood and local delights.

Day 5: Train to Kyoto, Partake in a Tea Ceremony, Visit the Samurai Ninja Museum

Make your way to the station this morning to catch a three-hour bullet train to Kyoto, the former capital of Japan. Head to the hotel to drop off your bags and refresh before the tea ceremony at Kyoto Maikoya. When you arrive, change into a kimono and learn about the ceremony, called sado or chanoyu. Sit down on a tatami, a type of straw mat, and join in the ritualistic preparation and consumption of matcha led by a knowledgeable tea master. 

After the ceremony, walk five minutes to the Samurai Ninja Museum. Browse the collection of authentic samurai armor, weapons, and artifacts, all showcasing the meticulous craftsmanship of these revered warriors. Watch the multimedia presentations to gain a deeper insight into the lives and philosophies of the samurai and ninja. Before you leave, try on a full samurai armor and choose from a selection of replica swords to take a commemorative picture.

Day 6: Visit Kinkaku-ji & Nijo Castle Tour, Hike to Tofuku-ji 

Kyoto, often called the cultural capital of Japan, is renowned for its shrines, temples, and castles. Today, you'll get to explore some of these landmarks, starting at the UNESCO-listed Kinkaku-ji, better known as the Golden Pavilion, as it's covered entirely in gold leaf. Stroll through the landscaped gardens and look out at the golden structure reflected in the surrounding ponds. Since you can't enter the temple, continue to another UNESCO World Heritage site, Nijo Castle, once home to the first shogun (military leader) of the Edo period.

Enter the main palace to see the walls adorned with intricate paintings depicting scenes from nature and Japanese folklore. Head outside to stroll through the expansive gardens, looking out at the serene reflecting ponds. After taking in the peaceful atmosphere, set off on a four-hour hike from Fushimi Inari-taisha, a shrine full of 10,000 torii gates, to Tofuku-ji, a large Zen temple. Follow the torii-lined route up Mount Inari and admire the wishes and names of those who donated the gates inscribed on their surface. 

 

When you reach the top, take in the panoramic view of the cityscape below, surrounded by lush greenery and towering mountains. Descending the mountain, follow the path to Tofuku-ji, built in 1236. Enter the sacred grounds at Sanmon Gate and stroll through the Hojo Garden, a serene space for reflection with meticulously raked gravel and carefully placed rocks. Cross over Tsutenkyo Bridge and enter the main hall to see the intricate Zen architecture and religious artifacts on each level of the temple. After a long day, return to the hotel to rest for the evening.

Day 7: Cycle to Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, Visit Nishiki Market

Today's active adventure includes a half-day cycling tour through Kyoto's countryside to get to the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. As you cycle, look out at the emerald-green rice fields, traditional thatched-roof houses, and quaint villages. If you're lucky, you may spot some macaques playing in the fields. When you arrive, park your bike and enter the bamboo forest. Watch the sunlight struggle to filter through the towering stalks and listen to them sway around you while you walk. After exploring the bamboo grove, jump back on your bike and return to your hotel in Kyoto to rest.

In the evening, head to the 400-year-old Nishiki Market, often called "Kyoto's Kitchen," to browse the hundreds of stalls offering an array of fresh produce, Kyoto specialties, and handmade goods. Sample pickled vegetables, yuba (tofu skin), Kyoto-style sushi, and other regional delights before ending the night with a sweet matcha-flavored treat, such as mochi, ice cream, or dorayaki, a pancake filled with matcha paste. Before you leave and return to the hotel, check out the Japanese kitchen knives, ceramics, and tableware to admire the artisans' attention to detail.

Day 8: Train to Osaka, Explore the Port City at Your Own Pace

Trade one iconic Japanese city for another this morning as you make your way to the station to catch a 30-minute bullet train to the port city of Osaka. After settling into your hotel, venture out to explore the area on your own. A good place to start is Osaka Castle, a grand structure that served as both a castle and fortress in the 16th century. Cross over the moat to get to the main tower, adorned with gilded embellishments and imposing stone walls. Ascend to the upper floors for panoramic views of the modern skyline and discover the museum within.

Browse the collection of artifacts, armor, and artwork before continuing to the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street to explore the kaleidoscope of fashion, entertainment, and gastronomic delights. Pop in and out of shops, ranging from international brands to quirky boutiques, to shop for clothing or Japanese crafts. In the evening, head to the lively district of Dotonbori to walk along the canal and try okonomiyaki, a grilled pancake topped with your choice of protein and toppings, like scallions or cabbage. End the night with a sweet treat of taiyaki, a fish-shaped cake filled with red bean paste.

Day 9: Train to Koya, Hike the Koyasan Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Trail 

Leave the city behind today as you catch a 1.5-hour train to Koya, your starting point for a three-hour hike along a portion of the 14.9-mile (24 km) Koyasan Choishi Michi Pilgrimage Trail. If you want a longer or more challenging hike, you can disembark at Kami-Kosawa Station instead for a five-hour trek or conquer the entire trail, starting at Nankai Namba Station, which normally takes six hours. Don't worry about getting lost without a guide on any of the routes, as there are stone markers every 357 feet (109 m) that were built in the Kamakura period to guide pilgrims.

As you walk through the serene cedar forest, look out for ancient temples, emerald rice fields, and bubbling streams along the path. When you finally see the towering Daimon Gate, surrounded by colossal Nio guardian statues, you know you've reached the end of the trail. If you still have some energy, you can follow the signs to Okunoin Cemetery, one of the largest and most revered cemeteries in the country. Pass the ruins of ancient temples and monasteries until you reach the sacred burial grounds.

 

Enter the lantern-lit corridor of Torodo Hall and walk along the centuries-old tombstones belonging to countless monks, samurai, and other notable figures. At the end of the trail, visit the mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. After paying your respects, head to your shukubo, a traditional temple lodging, where you can interact with the resident monks, learn about their daily lives, and enjoy shojin ryori, a Buddhist vegetarian dinner.

Day 10: Train to Hongu, Soak in the Hot Springs of Kawayu Onsen 

Get ready for an early wake-up call so you can participate in morning prayers with the monks and enjoy a traditional vegetarian meal for breakfast. After refueling, you can explore more of Mount Koya on your own. Visit the Okunoin Cemetery if you were too tired yesterday, or take a stroll through the quaint town of Koyasan. When it's time, head to the bus station for a four-hour transfer to Kawayu Onsen, nestled along the Otogawa River in Hongu. Spend the rest of the day soaking in the onsen's soothing hot springs, surrounded by forest and towering mountains.

Day 11: Hike a Portion of the Kumano Kodo Trail, Unwind in Tsubo-yu

After a day of relaxation at an onsen, you should be ready for another hike, this time along a portion of the 43-mile (70 km) Kumano Kodo trail. Start with a 30-minute bus ride to Hosshinmon-oj, a Shinto shrine that marks the starting point for your 4.6-mile (7.5 km) trek. Set off down the stone-paved path, climbing up moss-covered stairways and following the route of ancient pilgrims. Look out at the centuries-old cedar trees, lush fields, and expansive tea plantations until you reach the monumental Orotti Gate at the entrance of Kumano Hongu-taisha, one of three major shrines in Kumano.

Discover the sacred grounds and main hall adorned with a thatched roof, intricate woodwork, and vermilion accents. Then, visit the nearby Kumano Hongu Heritage Center to learn about the rich history of the Kumano Kodo pilgrimage and browse the collection of artifacts, ancient maps, and insightful displays. Don't miss Oyunohara, the largest torii gate in the world, standing at 111 feet (33.9 m). Once you've thoroughly explored the area, hop on a bus for a 10-minute transfer to Tanabe, home to the only UNESCO-listed hot spring in the world, Tsubo-yu, where you can spend the rest of the day relaxing.

Day 12: Cruise the Kumano River, Train to Nacihi-Katsuura

Today, you get to explore more of the Kumano Kodo route, but this time, from the water. Hop on a bus to the pier for 40 minutes, then jump on a traditional wooden boat for a cruise down the Kumano River. Look out at the lush greenery, ancient forests, and sacred sites lining the riverbanks, listening out for the occasional bird's call. After the boat cruise, visit Kumano Hayatama Taisha, a sacred Shinto shrine nestled in the coastal town of Shingu. Enter the main hall to see the ancient nagi tree within the complex, showcasing the shrine's balance of intricate architecture and nature.

When you're ready, climb 538 stone steps lined with torii gates to Kamikura-jinja, believed to be where the gods of Kumano first descended to Earth. From the top, enjoy panoramic views of the coastal town below and the glittering river. Once you've explored the shrine, descend the mountain and head to the station for a 20-minute train journey to the charming town of Nacihi-Katsuura, on the Kii Peninsula, renowned for its therapeutic onsens overlooking the water and fresh seafood markets. Spend the rest of the evening relaxing in an onsen or savoring locally caught delicacies.

Day 13: Hike to Kumano Nachi-taisha & Nachi Waterfall

Discover another portion of the Kumano Kodo trail today, starting with a 20-minute bus ride to the Daimonzaka Slope to begin the trek. Follow the ancient stone path into the cedar tree forest, looking out for the moss-covered lanterns and stone markers that allude to the historical significance of this trail. As you walk, listen for the distant sounds of flowing water from the Nachi River until you reach Kumano Nachi-taisha, a Shinto shrine located halfway up Nachi Mountain, after 1.5 hours of walking.

Enter at the towering torii gate and stroll to Seiganto-ji, a temple overlooking the tallest single-tiered waterfall in Japan, Nachi Falls, standing at 436 feet (133 m). After admiring the cascading water, enter the temple to see the intricate architectural details up close and explore the treasure hall full of historical artifacts. Following the hike, rest your feet on a 30-minute transfer back to your hotel in Katsuura, where you can relax for the rest of the evening.

Day 14: Discover Nachi-Katsuura at Your Own Pace

After hiking the Kumano Kudo trail over the last few days, you can enjoy some free time to relax in Nachi-Katsuura today. Enjoy some time unwinding in one of the town's many onsens, then wander the charming streets to discover the local markets, quaint shops, and array of restaurants. Another option is jumping on a boat to cruise around Nachi Bay to discover the rugged coastline and get a different perspective of the falls you hiked to yesterday cascading down the mountainside. In the evening, visit an izakaya, a traditional Japanese pub, for dinner and a glass of sake. 

Day 15: Train to Osaka, Visit Universal Studios or Cruise the Okawa River

Get ready to immerse yourself in Osaka's bustling atmosphere again as you return to the city on a four-hour train ride. Make your way to the hotel to check in and refresh, then venture out to explore the city on your own. If you're not too tired, you could head to Universal Studios Japan, a world-class theme park with an array of rides, performances, and food based on beloved movies and TV shows. Even if you don't like rides, you can immerse yourself in the realms of fantasy and adventure by meeting your favorite characters or watching them perform in live shows.

Those who want a more relaxing day can enjoy a cruise along the Okawa River, passing under intricate bridges and along towering buildings. Look out for iconic landmarks on the shores, like Osaka Castle or Osaka City Hall with its distinct twin towers. Try to time your cruise just right so you can watch the sunset over the water and the city's skyline. In the evening, visit the Kuromon Ichiba Market, better known as "Osaka's Kitchen," to browse the array of stalls and try local delights like sizzling takoyaki, deep-fried octopus balls covered in a sweet sauce and bonito flakes. 

Day 16: Depart Osaka

After spending 16 days hiking, cycling, and cruising across some of Japan's best natural landscapes, your active adventure comes to a close today. If you have some time before your flight, you can return to the Shinsaibashi-suji shopping street to pick up some last-minute souvenirs or enjoy a stroll through Kema Sakuranomiya Park with its well-manicured lawns, bridges, and distant view of Osaka Castle. When it's time, meet your driver back at the hotel and transfer to the airport for your flight home. Safe travels!

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