Private Travel
Japan
Private
Private Tour
Kyoto - Narita or Osaka – 10 Days
Join us on a spiritual journey through Japan’s most sacred landscapes and ancient temples with the Sacred Trails of Japan tour. This carefully crafted journey allows you to immerse yourself in the peaceful beauty and deep traditions of Japan’s sacred sites. Starting in the ancient city of Kyoto, experience zen meditation with monks, taste the vegetarian cuisine of shojin ryori and wander through the serene Arashiyama Bamboo Grove. Explore the historic treasures of Nara, marvel at the grandeur of the Great Buddha and stroll through the beautiful Nara Koen Park, blending spiritual discovery with natural wonder.
Continue to the mystical heights of Mount Koya and the sacred Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail where the spiritual essence of Japan unfolds with every step. In Ise-Shima, see the traditional ama divers and explore the grand Ise Jingu shrine complex, getting to the heart of Japan’s spiritual heritage. This journey is not only a window into the soul of Japanese culture but also a peaceful escape into the country’s most stunning landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking tranquillity, beauty and a deeper connection to the spiritual world.
ZEN MEDITATION IN KYOTO: Begin your journey with Zen meditation alongside Kyoto's monks, finding peace within the ancient city's serene temples and lush gardens, an experience that harmonizes the soul with the beauty of Japanese traditions.
KUMANO KODO PILGRIMAGE: Trek the sacred Kumano Kodo Trail, a spiritual journey through misty forests and majestic shrines, where every step brings you closer to enlightenment amidst Japan's breathtaking natural landscapes.
MOUNT KOYA STAY: Spend a night at Mount Koya's Soji-in temple, participating in shojin ryori with monks, a profound experience that immerses you in the heart of Japan's spiritual practices and communal living.
ISE JINGU SHRINE COMPLEX VISIT: Explore the Ise-Shima region, home to the Ise Jingu Shrine complex, where the spiritual and cultural essence of Japan is encapsulated in the grandeur and tranquillity of its most significant shrines.
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 heart through meditation, ancient trails, and sacred shrines. This journey offers immersion into Japan's rich cultural tapestry, blending serene natural beauty with profound traditional practices.
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.
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.
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. 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. 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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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.
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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, Culinary, History & Archaeology
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Heritage, Art & Architecture
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Experience Japan's dynamic blend of tradition and modernity, from Tokyo's avant-garde buzz to serene countryside shrines and heritage villages. Explore geisha districts and picturesque gardens, savouring authentic Japanese cuisine from sushi to kaiseki. Engage in unique activities like gold-leaf painting, weaving together Japan's rich past and vibrant present in an unforgettable journey.
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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
