Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek

Japan: Koya-san & Kumano Kodo Trek

Stray off the tourist trail with an eight-day trekking adventure on some of the ancient pilgrim routes in Japan. The Koya-san and Kumano Kodo treks take you deep through the wilderness and into the mountainous landscapes of Honshu, as well as provide insight into the strong connection with past and present pilgrims hiking these historic routes. Along the way, stop by peaceful temples and tranquil monasteries, soak in traditional onsen and discover the cultural hubs of Kyoto and Osaka. This small-group adventure will give you both a physical and cultural workout around the best of enchanting Japan.

Activities

• Kyoto – Shimogamo Shrine
• Kyoto – Path of Philosophy (Tetsugaku-no-Michi)
• Kyoto – Ginkaku-ji (Silver Pavilion)
• Kyoto – Mt. Daimonji-yama hike
• Koya-san – Koya-san Choishi Michi trail
• Koya-san – Okuno-in Mausoleum
• Kumano Kodo – Kumano Hongu Taisha
• Kumano Kudo – Hiking
• Kumano Kudo – Hiking
• Osaka – Dotombori District walking tour
• Kii Katsuura – Tuna Market

Highlights

• Explore Kyoto on a couple of nearby hikes for a different perspective on the life and culture in this notable city, as well as visiting some sites of natural and religious significance.
• Experience two of the main religions in Japan – Buddhism and Shintoism – by following the footsteps of ancient pilgrims on their quest for faith along the Koya-san and Kumano Kodo trails.
• Discover two of the major cultural hubs of Japan on foot, walking the Philosopher’s Path in Kyoto and strolling through the Dotombori district in Osaka.
• Join in on the morning prayers and share a traditional shojin ryori (Buddhist vegetarian) meal during an overnight temple stay in Koya-san, deep in mountainous Wakayama prefecture.
• Soak in an ancient onsen after a day of trekking in Yunomine – there’s no better way in Japan to relax and rejuvenate, as well as understand local cultures, than in the natural mineral waters of a hot spring.