Japan
The Spirit of Japan
A Journey Through Japan’s Mountains, Culture & Ancient Trails
destination
Japan
Duration
18 days
group size
Max 14 guests
walking level
Easy to moderate
from
$15,700
overview
Japan, from the mountains to the sea
The Spirit of Japan is an immersive 18-day journey through Japan’s most captivating landscapes, historic trails and cultural treasures. From the ancient forests and temples of Nikko to the mountains of the Japanese Alps, the historic Nakasendo Way and the timeless streets of Kyoto and Nara, this journey reveals the many sides of Japan.
journey highlights
Nikkō
Travel into the mountains of Nikko, surrounded by ancient cedar forests, sacred mountains and historic temples. Explore the magnificent Tōshō-gū Shrine and walk through the peaceful landscapes that have made Nikko one of Japan’s most important spiritual destinations.
The Nakasendo Way
Walk sections of the historic Nakasendo, the ancient route linking Edo and Kyoto. Follow forest trails and old village paths through beautifully preserved post towns, experiencing a quieter side of Japan far from the modern cities.
A Taste of Everyday Japan
Experience Japanese hospitality beyond the usual tourist trail, including a visit to a local home near Lake Biwa. Share a traditional cooking experience and meal while gaining a more personal insight into Japanese food and culture.
The Japanese Alps & Kamikochi
Journey into the Japanese Alps and explore the spectacular Kamikochi Valley. Walk beside clear mountain rivers, through native forests and beneath dramatic alpine peaks, with time to experience the traditional Japanese onsen culture of the region.
Kyoto, Nara & Japan’s Cultural Heritage
Discover the cultural heart of Japan in Kyoto and Nara, visiting magnificent temples, tranquil gardens and historic neighbourhoods. Along the way, experience centuries of Buddhist and Shinto traditions woven into everyday life.
Miyajima & Hiroshima
Travel south to the beautiful island of Miyajima, home to the iconic Itsukushima Shrine. Explore its forests and historic streets before continuing to Hiroshima, where the Peace Memorial offers a thoughtful conclusion to the journey.
Gallery
the walkabout way
What makes a Walkabout journey different
We believe the best journeys aren’t measured by how much you see, but by how deeply you experience a place. Every Walkabout journey is designed to help you slow down, connect and discover the true character of each destination.
Small
Groups
Travel at a slower, more personal pace.
Beyond the
Tourist Trail
Experiences that reveal a destination’s true character.
Local
Connections
Meet the people who bring each destination to life.
Taste
The Region
Discover each destination through its food and wine.
Handpicked
Stays
Chosen for their charm and character.
ACCOMMODATION
Featured stays
tokyo
Shinjuku Prince Hotel
(or similar)
Set in the heart of Shinjuku, the Shinjuku Prince Hotel provides a convenient base for experiencing Tokyo. Located beside Seibu-Shinjuku Station and close to the city’s major rail connections, it places the bright lights, restaurants and energy of Shinjuku right on the doorstep.
Nikko
Nikko Station Hotel Classic
(or similar)
Located directly opposite JR Nikko Station, this modern-classic hotel is ideally placed for exploring the historic town and surrounding mountains. After a day of walking, relax in the hotel’s natural hot spring baths before enjoying a comfortable evening.
Yudanaka
Issa no Komichi
(or similar)
A traditional Japanese inn in the mountain town of Yudanaka, Issa no Komichi offers a more intimate experience of Japanese hospitality. Its traditional setting and proximity to the region’s famous hot springs make it a fitting base for exploring the surrounding mountains and villages.
Matsumoto
Onyado Nono Hotel
(or similar)
A comfortable Japanese-style hotel in the historic city of Matsumoto, Onyado Nono combines contemporary comfort with traditional touches. Its warm interiors and onsen-style bathing facilities provide a relaxing base between walks and exploring the surrounding Japanese Alps.
Kyoto
Daiwa Roynet
(or similar)
Located in central Kyoto, the Daiwa Roynet provides a comfortable and convenient base for exploring the city’s temples, gardens and historic neighbourhoods. Japanese-inspired interiors and easy access to Kyoto’s sights make it well suited to discovering the cultural heart of Japan.
Kyoto
Shukubo Chion - in
(or similar)
Experience a different side of Kyoto with an overnight stay within the grounds of Chion-in, one of the city’s great Buddhist temple complexes. The tranquil surroundings provide a rare opportunity to experience traditional temple life and the spiritual character of historic Kyoto.
Nara
Nara Hotel
(or similar)
One of Japan’s historic grand hotels, Nara Hotel is set beside Nara Park and surrounded by the city’s temples, gardens and ancient landmarks. Its elegant atmosphere and traditional character make it a memorable base for exploring this remarkable cultural centre.
Osaka
Hotel Citadines
(or similar)
Located in the lively Namba district, Citadines Namba Osaka combines contemporary comfort with a distinctly historic setting. The hotel is within walking distance of Dōtonbori, Kuromon Market and other highlights of Osaka, making it an ideal base for discovering the city’s food and culture.
Miyajima
Hotel Villa Miyajima
(or similar)
Stay on the beautiful island of Miyajima, surrounded by forested mountains, historic temples and the waters of the Seto Inland Sea. Hotel Villa Miyajima provides a peaceful base from which to explore the island’s famous shrines, walking trails and traditional streets.
Hiroshima
Hotel Granvia
(or similar)
Directly connected to JR Hiroshima Station, Hotel Granvia provides a comfortable and convenient base for the final part of the journey. With easy access to Hiroshima’s Peace Memorial Park and Miyajima, it is ideally placed for exploring the region before the journey comes to an end.
2027 DEPARTURES
Dates & Pricing
small group journey
Maximum 14 guests
DEPARTURES
26 May - 12 June 2027
Price per person
AUD $15,700
single supplement
AUD $2,090
All prices are in Australian Dollars (AUD).
What's INCLUDED
itinerary
Curious what each day looks like?
Download the full itinerary to explore the journey in detail, including the day-by-day program, walking notes, accommodation and more.
YOUR WALKING EXPERIENCE
What to expect
walking grade
Grade 2
This journey is graded Grade 2 – Easy to Moderate. It combines comfortable walking days with sightseeing, cultural experiences and time to explore Japan’s historic towns and cities. Walks are generally at a relaxed pace, but some days involve uneven trails, steps and moderate inclines.
typical walking days
A mix of short walks and half-day excursions, with several longer walking days in the Japanese Alps, Kamikochi and along sections of the historic Nakasendo Way.
The terrain
A variety of surfaces including established paths, forest trails, stone paths, steps and some uneven or undulating terrain.
track conditions
Conditions vary throughout the journey. Some trails can be uneven or involve steps and moderate inclines, but there is no sustained strenuous hiking.
our pace
A relaxed and comfortable pace, allowing time to enjoy the scenery, villages, temples and cultural experiences along the way.
FITNESS GUIDANCE
A reasonable level of walking fitness is recommended. Guests should be comfortable walking for several hours at a time on uneven ground and managing occasional steps and moderate inclines.
A journey, not a race
Our walks are about enjoying the experience, not keeping up with the fastest person. Your guides set a comfortable pace, with plenty of opportunities to pause, take in the scenery and enjoy the journey together.
guest stories
Stories from our travellers
Every journey leaves lasting memories. Here’s what some of our travellers had to say.
The Spirit of Japan is graded Grade 2 – Easy to Moderate. The journey combines sightseeing and cultural experiences with a variety of walks, including forest trails, mountain paths, historic village tracks and sections of the Nakasendo Way. Most walks are undertaken at a comfortable pace, although some involve uneven ground, steps and moderate inclines. A reasonable level of walking fitness is recommended.
Japan is particularly enjoyable during the spring and autumn months when conditions are generally well suited to walking and sightseeing. April and May bring mild temperatures, spring greenery and, depending on timing and location, cherry blossom. October and November offer crisp walking conditions, autumn colour and generally clear days. Temperatures can vary considerably between regions, particularly in the mountains, so layers and suitable walking clothing are recommended.
Japan has a rich culture of traditions and customs that you will encounter throughout the journey. Guests should expect to remove shoes when entering some traditional accommodation, homes and temples, and there are specific customs associated with temples, shrines and Japanese onsen. Your Walkabout leader will provide guidance along the way, making it easy to enjoy these experiences respectfully.
The journey combines comfortable private transport with Japan’s excellent rail network and local transfers. Travelling by train is an important part of experiencing Japan, particularly when moving between the major regions. Your luggage and transfers are organised as part of the journey, so you can concentrate on enjoying the walks, scenery and cultural experiences rather than navigating Japan independently.
Japan awaits
Could this be your next journey?
If you’d like to know more about this itinerary, the walking, or whether it’s the right fit for you, we’d love to help.
