Private Travel
Japan
Private
Private Tour
Kyoto - Narita or Osaka – 10 Days
Join us on the Sacred Trails of Japan tour, a peaceful journey through Japan’s most spiritual and scenic places. Begin in Kyoto, where you’ll experience zen meditation with monks, stroll through the Arashiyama Bamboo Grove, and enjoy traditional vegetarian meals known as shojin ryori. Explore Nara’s ancient temples, meet friendly deer in Nara Park, and admire the Great Buddha—an important symbol of Japan’s religious past.
Travel onward to Mount Koya and walk the sacred Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, both deeply spiritual destinations. In Ise-Shima, visit the grand Ise Jingu Shrine and meet the famous ama pearl divers. Along the way, you’ll also enjoy Japan’s natural beauty—from cherry blossoms in spring to views of Mount Fuji. This Japan spiritual tour is ideal for those seeking serenity, cultural depth, and unforgettable experiences in one of the world’s most beautiful and spiritual countries. Start planning your Japan holiday with us today.
ZEN & TEMPLE LIFE IN KYOTO: Start your journey in Kyoto with peaceful Zen meditation in ancient temples surrounded by tranquil gardens. Join local monks and learn the art of mindfulness. This experience offers a deep connection to Japanese tradition, providing calm and insight in one of Japan’s most beautiful and spiritual cities.
KUMANO KODO & MOUNT KOYA: Walk the sacred Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail through quiet forests and mountain shrines. Spend a night at Mount Koya’s Soji-in temple, eat shojin ryori, and join morning prayers. These experiences bring you close to Japan’s spiritual heart and offer moments of reflection in peaceful natural surroundings.
ISE SHRINE & CULTURAL HERITAGE: Discover the Ise Jingu Shrine complex in Ise-Shima, one of Japan’s most sacred sites. Surrounded by nature, these grand shrines reflect the country’s deep spiritual roots. Learn about ancient rituals and explore the region’s rich traditions, including visits to local villages and the famous ama pearl divers.
CHERRY BLOSSOMS & JAPANESE CUISINE: In spring, enjoy the hanami tradition of cherry blossom viewing with locals. Taste Japan’s famous dishes like sushi, ramen, and seasonal sweets. Whether under blooming sakura trees or in lively markets, this journey blends food and festivals, making it perfect for a Japan holiday filled with culture and flavour.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Private Travel
Moderate
Premium
Discover Japan’s spiritual soul on a 10-day journey through sacred temples, meditation, and ancient pilgrimage trails. Explore serene landscapes, connect with timeless traditions, and customise your experience for a meaningful, personal adventure. Perfect for spiritual seekers, this tour blends culture, nature, and reflection in Japan’s most peaceful and inspiring places.
Your journey starts in the heart of Japan’s cultural capital, Kyoto, a city that pulsates with ancient Japan. Upon arrival you’ll be immersed in the peaceful atmosphere of a traditional temple lodging. The day is all about tranquillity and introspection, with a private Zen meditation session led by a monk. This will dissolve stress and bring inner peace. As the day comes to a close, enjoy the subtle flavours of shojin ryori, a vegetarian cuisine that adheres to Buddhist principles, prepared to nourish body and soul. Guests may also wish to try Kyoto's renowned ramen shops during their stay, experiencing this heart-warming and authentic Japanese dish that is a staple of local food culture.
Start the day with the harmonious ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony, an artful practice steeped in Zen philosophies of mindfulness and simplicity, shared with temple monks. The day’s journey takes you to Kokedera, the Moss Temple, famous for its mossy garden. Then to Tenryuji temple, a World Heritage Site and beautiful garden and views. Your exploration continues to Ryoan-ji temple, home to the famous Zen rock garden. The day ends with a walk through the bamboo of Arashiyama Grove and then Sanjusangendo Temple, famous for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy. To complete your day in Kyoto, be sure to visit a local sushi restaurant to experience authentic Japanese flavors and enjoy this essential part of Japan's culinary heritage.
Leave Kyoto for the city of Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital where history and tradition blend with natural beauty. Your journey includes Fushimi-Inari Shrine, famous for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Then Isui-en Garden, a beautiful garden that embodies Japanese garden design. Next Kasuga Taisha, Nara’s Shinto sanctuary, shrouded in myth and hundreds of stone lanterns. The highlight of your Nara visit is Todaiji Temple, home to the Daibutsu (Great Buddha) statue, a symbol of spiritual significance. Here, you can also see displays of samurai attire, including the traditional belt that signified status and authenticity in the past. Nara’s sites offer a unique glimpse into Japan’s fascinating past, revealing the heritage and culture of previous eras. Your day ends with a stroll through Nara Park, a peaceful space inhabited by friendly deer, symbolising the city’s sacred and natural harmony. You’ll settle into a ryokan for the night.
Journey to the spiritual heart of Japan, Mt. Koya, nestled in the Kii Peninsula’s mountains. Start your pilgrimage at the Danjo-Garan complex and Kongobu-ji Temple, the centre of Shingon Buddhism. Explore the religious history and art at the Reihokan Museum. In the afternoon, Okunoin, Japan’s most sacred cemetery, a peaceful sanctuary and final resting place for monks and samurai. The spiritual atmosphere of Mt. Koya encourages visitors to open their minds and hearts to new experiences, allowing deeper connections with the sacred surroundings. As the day comes to a close, retire to the Soji-in temple lodging. Here you’ll enjoy shojin ryori, a vegetarian cuisine that embodies Buddhist culinary traditions, shared with monks.
Wake up before dawn for a meditation session with the monks and then breakfast. Leave the tranquillity of Mt. Koya for the Kumano region, a spiritual landscape that has welcomed pilgrims for centuries. Lace up for a hike along the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, starting from Hosshinmon-oji. This path winds through ancient forests to the grand Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, a spiritual hub of the region.Visit the Kumano Kodo Centre to get a deeper understanding of this sacred journey. The day ends at Kawayu Onsen Fujiya, a hotel famous for its natural hot springs, where you can relax and reflect.
Continue your pilgrimage to the divine realms of Kumano, starting with Kumano Hayatama Taisha, famous for its ancient sacred tree. Take a traditional boat ride along the Kumano-gawa River, following the path of ancient pilgrims, to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual landscape. The pilgrimage leads to Kumano Nachi Taisha, a sanctuary in harmony with nature, and the majestic Nachi-no-Taki waterfall, Japan's highest. The day ends at Hotel Nakanoshima, a secluded hot-spring resort on a private island in Katsuura, with ocean views and an onsen experience, encapsulating the essence of sacred and natural beauty.
Hike through the historic Matsumoto Toge Pass, a key section of the Kumano Kodo Iseji Route. This gentle 3-mile hike, 2-3 hours, passes by the Jizo statue and the iconic Lion Rock (Shishi-iwa) and immerses you in the spiritual heritage of the region. Your path ends at Hana-No-Iwaya Shrine, Japan's oldest and a testament to the enduring spirit of pilgrimage. The day ends with a relaxing evening at an Owase hotel, where you can unwind and reflect on the day's sacred experiences.
Start the day with a walk through the bustling Owase Fish Market, then visit the beautiful Owase Hinoki forest, a cypress sanctuary. The day's adventure continues with a 4.5-mile hike along the picturesque Magose-toge Pass, part of the Kumano Kodo Iseji Route. See the Yonaki Jizo shrine and the mesmerizing Magose-fudoson beside a waterfall. The journey continues through Mie Prefecture to Shima, where the evening is at leisure and luxury at the hotel Amanemu, a peaceful haven in Ise-Shima.
Visit the spiritual centre of Ise-Shima, starting with the Ise Jingu shrine complex, a pilgrimage site with the Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine). In the afternoon, watch the ama divers, the "sea women," who skillfully free-dive to collect pearls from the ocean. Enjoy lunch on Mikimoto Island, celebrating the marine culture of the region. End the day at Amanemu, reflecting on the beauty and culture of Ise-Shima on your final evening.
After a relaxing morning, you'll depart Ise-Shima and transfer to Nagoya Airport. From there, connect to flights at Narita or Osaka International Airports and continue your journey or head home, with Japan's sacred landscapes and cultural treasures in your heart.
This tour was designed as a spiritual odyssey, deeply inspired by Japan's rich tapestry of Buddhism, Shintoism, and the timeless practice of pilgrimage. It aims to connect participants with the profound tranquillity and spiritual legacy of Japan, from the Zen meditation sessions in Kyoto to the sacred trails of the Kumano Kodo.
The journey through ancient capitals, revered temples, and serene natural landscapes offers a unique blend of cultural immersion, historical exploration, and personal reflection.
This expedition is perfect for those interested in activities, nature, culture, or wildlife, seeking an intimate encounter with Japan's spiritual heart and its breathtaking natural beauty.
Our expedition's flexible approach allows us to adapt to new opportunities and conditions. We offer a range of activities from easy to moderate, tailored to your preference. Participants should be fit for activities such as walks, treks, and visits to cultural sites, with options for more strenuous hikes. Our trips are suitable for families.
ACCOMMODATIONS: Our tours feature the finest accommodations in each destination, from charming boutique hotels to cosy lodges, ensuring a comfortable stay with authentic cuisine. We carefully choose each location for its alignment with our itinerary and the activities planned, prioritising comfort and local experience.
TRANSPORTATION: All transportation for your tour is meticulously planned according to the itinerary. For personal explorations beyond the scheduled activities, your Expedition Leader is ready to suggest the best transportation choices, ensuring your travel within the tour is seamless and tailored to your interests.
Prices are per person, based on double or single occupancy (unless otherwise noted) and do not include international airfare to/from your destination. All prices and fares are quoted in US dollars and subject to change. See the terms and conditions for this trip for more information.
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Wellbeing & Yoga, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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PRIVATE
Embark on a captivating journey through Japan and China, exploring ancient temples, imperial palaces, and modern wonders, while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that defines these iconic lands.
Heritage, Art & Architecture
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PRIVATE
This 15-day tour offers an unforgettable journey through Japan and China, blending ancient traditions with modern marvels. From Tokyo's bustling streets to the Great Wall's historic ramparts, and Kyoto's serene temples to Shanghai's urban sophistication, immerse yourself in the diverse cultures, breathtaking landscapes, and rich history of these iconic destinations.
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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Wellbeing & Yoga, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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PRIVATE
Embark on a captivating journey through Japan and China, exploring ancient temples, imperial palaces, and modern wonders, while immersing yourself in the rich tapestry of culture, history, and tradition that defines these iconic lands.
Heritage, Art & Architecture
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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People & Culture, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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Heritage, Biking/Cycling, Hiking/Trekking
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Heritage, People & Culture, History & Archaeology
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PRIVATE
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People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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Heritage, People & Culture, Art & Architecture
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The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
The difference with the Asian Geographical is, that each of our holidays is designed with extreme precision of a mountaineering expedition.
Your entire holiday is designed around your personal preferences
Travel at your own pace with full itinerary flexibility
Choose from handpicked, luxury hotels & resorts across Asia
Enjoy seamless logistics, private transfers, and 24/7 assistance
Our package holiday team has decades of experience in luxury Asia travel
Receive first-hand advice from specialists who know each destination intimately
Gain access to hidden gems and authentic local experiences
Our aim is to stay committed to responsible travel in Asia
We partner with eco-conscious providers
Itineraries include experiences that preserve Asia’s cultural and natural heritage
Travel with complete confidence under full ATOL protection
Fully bonded and financially protected for your peace of mind
Established in 2014
