Private Travel
Japan
Private
Private Tour
Kyoto - Narita or Osaka – 10 Days
Embark on a spiritual odyssey through Japan's most revered landscapes and ancient temples with the Sacred Trails of Japan tour. This meticulously crafted journey invites you to immerse yourself in the tranquil beauty and deep-rooted traditions of Japan’s sacred sites. Starting in the ancient city of Kyoto, experience zen meditation with monks, savour 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 lush Nara Koen Park, blending spiritual discovery with natural splendour.
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, witness the traditional ama divers and explore the grand Ise Jingu shrine complex, delving into the heart of Japan’s spiritual heritage. This journey not only offers a window into the soul of Japanese culture but also provides a serene escape into the country’s most breathtaking landscapes, making it an unforgettable experience for those seeking tranquillity, beauty, and a deeper connection with 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. a
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 begins in the heart of Japan's cultural capital, Kyoto, a city that resonates with the legacy of ancient Japan. Upon arrival, you'll immerse yourself in the serene atmosphere of a traditional temple lodging. The day is dedicated to tranquillity and introspection, highlighted by a private Zen meditation session led by an experienced monk. This profound experience aims to dissolve stress and bring about inner peace. As evening falls, savour the subtle flavours of shojin ryori, a vegetarian cuisine that adheres to Buddhist principles, meticulously prepared to nourish both body and soul.
Greet the morning with the harmonious ritual of a Japanese tea ceremony, an artful practice steeped in Zen philosophies of mindfulness and simplicity, shared in the company of temple monks. The day's journey leads to Kokedera, the Moss Temple, renowned for its lush, green carpet of moss that envelops the garden in tranquillity. Continue to Tenryuji temple, a World Heritage Site celebrated for its exquisite garden and scenic vistas. Your exploration extends to Ryoan-ji temple, home to an iconic Zen rock garden that invites contemplation. The day culminates with a stroll through the towering bamboo of Arashiyama Grove, before visiting the historical expanse of Sanjusangendo Temple, known for its 1,001 statues of Kannon, the goddess of mercy.
Depart Kyoto for the storied city of Nara, Japan's first permanent capital, where history and tradition blend seamlessly with natural beauty. Your journey includes a visit to the mesmerizing Fushimi-Inari Shrine, famed for its thousands of vermillion torii gates. Next, the tranquil Isui-en Garden awaits, offering a picturesque landscape that captures the essence of Japanese garden design. Continue to Kasuga Taisha, Nara's revered Shinto sanctuary, shrouded in myth and adorned with hundreds of stone lanterns. The highlight of your Nara visit is Todaiji Temple, housing the colossal Daibutsu (Great Buddha) statue, an emblem of spiritual significance. Your exploration concludes with a leisurely walk through Nara Park, a serene space inhabited by friendly deer, symbolizing the city's sacred and natural harmony. Your day ends as you settle into the comforting embrace of a ryokan, preparing for another day of discovery.
Journey to the spiritual heart of Japan, Mt. Koya, nestled within the Kii Peninsula's lush mountains. Begin your pilgrimage at the revered Danjo-Garan complex and Kongobu-ji Temple, the epicentre of Shingon Buddhism. Delve into the rich tapestry of religious history and art at the Reihokan Museum. The afternoon unveils the serene beauty of Okunoin, Japan's most sacred cemetery, a sanctuary of peace and final resting place for monks and samurai alike. As dusk falls, retreat to the Soji-in temple lodging. Here, partake in shojin ryori, a vegetarian cuisine that embodies Buddhist culinary traditions, shared in the company of monks.
Awake before dawn for a meditative session with the monks, followed by a traditional breakfast. Depart 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 revered Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, starting from Hosshinmon-oji. This path winds through ancient forests to the grandeur of Kumano Hongu Taisha Grand Shrine, a spiritual nexus of the region. Explore the Kumano Kodo Centre to deepen your understanding of this sacred journey. The day concludes at Kawayu Onsen Fujiya, a hotel famed for its natural hot springs, where relaxation and reflection await.
Continue your pilgrimage to the divine realms of Kumano, starting with a visit to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, renowned for its venerable sacred tree. Opt for a traditional boat journey along the Kumano-gawa River, mirroring the path of ancient pilgrims, to fully immerse yourself in the spiritual landscape. The pilgrimage leads to Kumano Nachi Taisha, a sanctuary harmoniously blended with nature, and the majestic Nachi-no-Taki waterfall, Japan's tallest. The day’s spiritual journey culminates at Hotel Nakanoshima, a secluded hot-spring resort on a private island in Katsuura, offering serene ocean views and a rejuvenating onsen experience, encapsulating the essence of sacred and natural beauty.
Embark on a serene journey through the historic Matsumoto Toge Pass, a vital segment of the Kumano Kodo Iseji Route. This gentle three-mile trek, taking two to three hours, leads past the serene Jizo statue and the iconic Lion Rock (Shishi-iwa), immersing you in the spiritual legacy of the region. Your path concludes at the Hana-No-Iwaya Shrine, Japan's oldest and a testament to the enduring spirit of pilgrimage. The day's exploration culminates in a restful evening at a local Owase hotel, providing a tranquil respite and reflection on the day's sacred encounters.
Your morning begins with a refreshing walk through the bustling Owase Fish Market, followed by a visit to the enchanting Owase Hinoki forest, a sanctuary of cypress tranquillity. The day's adventure continues with a four-and-a-half mile trek along the picturesque Magose-toge Pass, part of the revered Kumano Kodo Iseji Route. Discover the Yonaki Jizo shrine and the mesmerizing Magose-fudoson beside a cascading waterfall. The journey proceeds through Mie Prefecture to Shima, where the evening promises relaxation and luxury at the hotel Amanemu, a haven of peace amidst the beauty of Ise-Shima.
Explore the spiritual heart of Ise-Shima, starting with the expansive Ise Jingu shrine complex, a beacon for pilgrims with its significant Geku (Outer Shrine) and Naiku (Inner Shrine). In the afternoon, marvel at the ama divers, the revered "sea women," who skilfully free dive to harvest pearls from the ocean's depths. Savor a delightful lunch on Mikimoto Island, celebrating the rich maritime culture of the region. Conclude your day with a return to the comforts of Amanemu, reflecting on the serene beauty and cultural richness of Ise-Shima on your journey's final evening.
After a leisurely morning, you'll depart from Ise-Shima, transferring to Nagoya Airport. From there, connect to flights at Narita or Osaka International Airports, embarking on your onward journey or home, carrying memories of Japan's sacred landscapes and cultural wonders etched 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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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.
