Sacred Trails of Southern Japan

Tokyo

Arrive at Narita Airport and transfer to your hotel in central Tokyo. Visit Toyosu Fish Market, Japan’s largest seafood market, and see the day’s catch in action. Then explore Akihabara, the lively district known for electronics and anime. In the evening, enjoy a welcome dinner at a local restaurant. This first day is about experiencing Tokyo’s vibrant energy and getting a taste of Japan’s unique culture. After dinner, return to your hotel and relax. You’ve arrived in one of the world’s most exciting cities—tomorrow, the journey continues deeper into the heart of Japan.

Kyoto

Travel to Kyoto on the bullet train and enjoy the fast, smooth ride. After arrival, have a traditional Japanese lunch. Visit Ginkakuji, the Silver Pavilion, known for its calm gardens. Walk the Philosopher’s Path, a peaceful route lined with trees and small temples. Later, explore Kiyomizudera Temple, perched above the city with amazing views. This afternoon offers a glimpse into Kyoto’s beauty and spirituality. In the evening, stay at either a charming ryokan or the luxurious Ritz-Carlton by the Kamogawa River. Kyoto is slower, older, and deeply cultural—a complete change from the buzz of Tokyo.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kyoto

Kyoto

Start the day at Ryoan-ji Temple and see its famous Zen rock garden, a place made for quiet thought. Then head to the Arashiyama district, cross the scenic Togetsukyo Bridge, and explore the tranquil bamboo grove near Tenryuji Temple. Take your time walking through this serene landscape. The afternoon is yours—perhaps take a boat ride on the Hozu River or explore shops and cafés in Kyoto’s centre. The day balances calm beauty and free exploration. Kyoto’s charm lies in its quiet corners, natural scenery, and elegant old-world feel. Return to your accommodation for the night.

Meals Included: Breakfast

KUJU HIGHLANDS

Leave Kyoto and journey to the Kuju Highlands in Kyushu, the highest region on the island. The drive is beautiful, with views of open fields and forested hills. On arrival, begin a gentle walk through the countryside, breathing in the fresh mountain air. You’ll stay in a quiet hot spring lodge surrounded by nature. After your walk, enjoy a relaxing soak in the mineral-rich onsen baths. Dinner tonight is homemade and comforting, made with local ingredients. This is a slower, more peaceful side of Japan, far from the cities. It’s a place to truly switch off.

Meals Included: Breakfast

MOUNT ASO

Today begins with a hike up Kuju-dake and Naka-dake, where you’ll enjoy sweeping views of the surrounding mountains. Afterwards, drive to the small hot spring village of Kurokawa. Pause here for a rejuvenating soak before continuing to Mount Aso, Japan’s largest active volcano. You’ll stay overnight in a traditional ryokan, with a local dinner that reflects the region’s rich food culture. This day combines nature, adventure, and hot spring relaxation. With dramatic landscapes and quiet villages, this part of Kyushu offers a deeper connection to Japan’s volcanic geography and traditional way of life.

Meals Included: Breakfast

MOUNT ASO

Take the Sensuikyo cable car up Mount Aso for great views. Hike around the crater rim, where volcanic rock formations and changing colours reveal the mountain’s power. Explore peaks like Taka-dake and Naka-dake, shaped by centuries of eruptions. The terrain is unlike anywhere else, with raw beauty and dramatic skies. Return to your nearby guesthouse in the afternoon for a warm meal and a chance to relax. This day is all about open space, fresh air, and connecting with Japan’s wild volcanic landscape—far from the crowds and deeply memorable.

Meals Included: Breakfast

TAKACHIHO

Drive along the scenic Aso Panorama Line, enjoying sweeping countryside views. Arrive in Takachiho, a town known for its ties to Japanese mythology. Walk through the striking gorge, surrounded by basalt cliffs and waterfalls. In the evening, visit Takachiho Shrine, where sacred Yokagura dances are performed. These traditional rituals, telling ancient Shinto stories, offer a special insight into Japan’s spiritual heritage. The setting is magical—torches flicker, drums beat, and legends come alive. It’s an unforgettable cultural experience that links you to centuries of local belief, all in a peaceful mountain town.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Aya

Start the day with a countryside bike ride around Takachiho, pedalling past rice fields and quiet roads. Stop for a relaxed picnic outdoors. Afterwards, travel to Aya, a forested region known for nature and slow living. Take a short hike to the Teruha Suspension Bridge, suspended 460 feet above the river. In spring, cherry blossoms fill the valley, making this walk one of the most beautiful of the trip. Today is all about gentle movement and natural beauty—time spent outdoors, without rush. You’ll feel refreshed, grounded, and closer to Japan’s quiet landscapes.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nichinan

Begin with a visit to Aya Castle and try your hand at traditional Japanese crafts such as pottery, weaving, or indigo dyeing. Then travel along the Nichinan coast, with dramatic views of the sea. Stop at Udo-jingu Shrine, built into a seaside cave and surrounded by crashing waves. Later, explore Obi Castle and the well-preserved samurai houses nearby. Enjoy matcha tea and sweets at a traditional teahouse. The day blends coastal scenery, hands-on learning, and heritage architecture. Spend the night at a hotel overlooking the sea, where you can relax with the sound of waves.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Nichinan

Kirishima

Head into the Kirishima mountains, where steam rises from volcanic vents. Hike up Takachiho-no-mine Peak, a sacred site with sweeping views. Walk through rugged volcanic paths and reach Shiratori hot spring, surrounded by trees and mineral pools. Relax in an open-air bath and soak in the healing waters. This day brings together nature, hiking, and deep rest. The wild beauty of Kirishima and its strong spiritual energy make this a special experience. You’ll feel renewed after walking through this mystical volcanic land. Tonight, rest well in a peaceful mountain retreat.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Kirishima

Take a day trip to Kagoshima, once the seat of the powerful Shimazu clan. Visit Sangen-en, a lovely villa and garden facing Sakurajima volcano across the bay. Learn about the region’s feudal history while strolling through its peaceful grounds. Enjoy views of the smoking volcano and the coastline beyond. After exploring, return to Kirishima for a quiet evening. This day mixes architecture, history, and scenic landscapes in a refined way. It’s a calm and thoughtful contrast to the dramatic volcano hikes, offering balance in the journey.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tokyo

Start with a visit to Chiran, known for its preserved samurai houses and WWII history. Enjoy lunch at a local family-run restaurant offering handmade soba or udon. Then head south to Yamakawa beach, near Kaimondake volcano. Try a traditional sand bath—where you are gently buried in warm volcanic sand while wearing a light yukata. This relaxing experience helps relieve fatigue. In the evening, fly back to Tokyo and check in to your hotel. The day mixes deep cultural heritage with natural healing—ideal before returning to the city.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tokyo

Enjoy your last full day in Tokyo. Visit historic sites, browse local markets, or walk through districts like Asakusa, Shibuya, or Harajuku. Perhaps stop by a peaceful garden or visit a quirky museum. You can also shop for souvenirs or sample more Japanese food. Tokyo offers something for every taste—whether traditional or modern. In the evening, share a farewell dinner with your group. It’s a time to reflect, laugh, and celebrate the incredible journey you’ve taken through cities, mountains, coastlines, and culture.

Meals Included: Breakfast

Tokyo - Departure

After breakfast, you will be transferred to Narita Airport for your onward flight. Safe travels and thank you for journeying with us through Japan.

Meals Included: Breakfast