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Girls in Kimonos at Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto - Backroads of Japan, Japan
Girls in Kimonos at Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto  | Felipe Romero Beltran
Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji - Backroads of Japan, Japan
Golden Pavilion, Kinkakuji  | Felipe Romero Beltran
Traditional wooden houses line the Nakasendo Way - Backroads of Japan, Japan
Traditional wooden houses line the Nakasendo Way
Stunning view of Mt Fuji on our Backroads of Japan - Backroads of Japan, Japan
Stunning view of Mt Fuji on our Backroads of Japan
Fresh seafood at Tsukiji Fish Market - Backroads of Japan, Japan
Fresh seafood at Tsukiji Fish Market  | Felipe Romero Beltran

Backroads of Japan

Discover Japan on foot - from Mt Fuji and forest trails to Kyoto's temples and Osaka's markets.

Japan
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 152 reviews

15 Days from

$ 

Trip Code: BOJ
View dates to Book
Essential Information
Duration
  • 15 Days
Activities
  • 6 day hikes
Style
  • In Comfort Adventures  
Accommodation
  • 9 nights hotel
  • 5 nights traditional inns
Meals
  • 9 Dinners
  • 3 Lunches
  • 14 Breakfasts
Difficulty Grading  
3 / 10

Introductory

Carbon Footprint  

43kg of CO2-e PP per day

(601kg of CO2-e PP entire trip)

Backroads of Japan Trip highlights

  • Walk along ancient trade and pilgrimage routes including the Nakasendo and Yamanobe no Michi
  • Explore Kyoto, Tokyo and Osaka on foot, from temple paths to neon-lit backstreets and discover quiet rural regions like Asuka and Dorogawa, rich in early Japanese history
  • Stay in family-run ryokans and countryside inns with warm hospitality and onsen baths
  • Savour regional cuisine crafted from seasonal ingredients and traditional techniques
  • Gain deeper insight from an expert bilingual guide who brings Japan’s history, geology and culture to life.

Overview

This immersive journey reveals the soul of Japan from sacred mountain trails and serene valleys to bustling temple markets and lantern-lit alleyways. You’ll explore the country on foot, following quiet forest paths, stone-paved post roads, and ancient routes once used by monks, merchants, and emperors.

Start in Tokyo’s hidden corners, then walk in the shadow of Mount Fuji before travelling deep into the Kiso Valley. Here, heritage towns like Tsumago and Magome preserve the feel of Edo-period Japan. In Kyoto and Osaka, discover temples, tea houses, and lively food districts that bring tradition and modernity face to face.

Each day you’ll climb scenic peaks, stroll riverside trails, visit tomb mounds and sacred shrines, and experience Japan’s famed hospitality in countryside ryokans and local minshuku. With expert local guidance and seamless logistics, this small group adventure lets you truly connect with Japan’s natural and cultural heritage one step at a time.

Itinerary

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On arrival in Tokyo, make your own way to the group hotel. This evening there will be an important trip briefing at approximately 6.00pm. Please confirm the exact time and location with reception. After the briefing, your leader will offer the option to head out to a local restaurant for dinner followed by an optional evening walk through areas such as Shinjuku and or Shibuya to experience Tokyo’s famous neon-lit streets. Transport for the evening is at your own cost. First impressions of Tokyo’s outer suburbs offer little hint of the natural and cultural richness to come. Beneath the elevated highways and dense cityscape lies one of the most energetic and fascinating cities in the world. If you have time, there are many free attractions worth exploring, including the Imperial Palace East Garden, the Sumo Museum and the Ryogoku Fireworks Museum. Accommodation: Sunroute Asakusa or similar

Meals: D

After breakfast, we begin exploring Tokyo by public transport. Our walk includes a visit to the Tsukiji Outer Market, followed by time in the historic downtown area near the Sumida River. Here we visit Sensoji Temple, Tokyo’s oldest temple, and stroll along Nakamise Shopping Street, lined with traditional stores dating back to the Edo period. In the early afternoon, we collect our luggage and travel by train and bus to Lake Kawaguchi in the Fuji Five Lakes region, a journey of approximately 3 hours. Set beneath Mount Fuji, this area is renowned for its classic views of Japan’s most sacred mountain, although cloud cover can never be guaranteed. Accommodation: Route Inn Kawaguchiko or similar

Meals: B,D

Today we enjoy a guided hike in the Kawaguchiko region. Your leader will select the most suitable route based on weather and group ability. Options may include trails around the lower slopes of Mount Fuji or nearby hills offering scenic viewpoints. Mount Fuji rises to 3,776m (12,388ft) and remains a sacred site for many pilgrims. While climbing the mountain itself is not part of this trip, walking in its foothills offers excellent photo opportunities when conditions allow. The afternoon is free for independent exploration. You may choose to visit local hot springs, temples and shrines, explore one of the region’s museums, walk around one of the nearby lakes or hire a bicycle. Accommodation: Route Inn Kawaguchiko or similar

Meals: B,D

This morning we travel by train into the mountainous Kiso Valley, a historic trade route linking Kyoto and Tokyo. After arriving at Nagiso Station, we begin our first walk along the Nakasendo Trail toward the beautifully preserved town of Tsumago. Tsumago is maintained much as it appeared in the 18th century, with wooden buildings, stone paths and traditional inns. After time exploring the town, we continue to our accommodation. Depending on accommodation arrangements, today’s walk will vary. From Nagiso Station to Tsumago, approximately 4–5km (2.5–3.1mi), about 1–1.5 hours or from Tsumago to Magome, approximately 8km (5mi). Your main luggage will be forwarded to Kyoto. You will need a small overnight bag for tonight. Overnight: Hanaya ryokan OR Onn Nakatsugawa or simlar

Meals: B,D

Today we continue walking along the ancient Nakasendo Way, passing through forested hills and historic post towns such as Magome and Tsumago. These beautifully preserved settlements are lined with traditional shops selling local foods and handicrafts. Walking distances depend on the previous night’s accommodation: Approx. 12km (7.5mi), with an option to extend to 15km (9.3mi) Or approx. 9km (5.6mi) In the afternoon, we travel by train through the Central Alps to Nagoya, then board the Shinkansen bullet train to Kyoto, Japan’s former imperial capital and cultural heart. Accommodation: Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Today is devoted to exploring Kyoto with your leader. The itinerary may be adjusted to suit weather conditions or local events. We visit at least two Buddhist temples, potentially including sites tucked into the forested hills east of the city, and enjoy walking through central Kyoto to gain an orientation of this remarkable city. Accommodation: Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo Hotel or similar

Meals: B

This morning we take a guided walk up Mount Daimonji, part of Kyoto’s eastern mountain range. The climb takes about 60 minutes and rewards us with sweeping views across Kyoto and, on clear days, as far as Osaka. Those who prefer a gentler option may choose to walk independently along the Philosopher’s Path. The remainder of the day is free for personal exploration, with your leader available to offer suggestions. Accommodation: Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo Hotel or similar

Meals: B

Today is free for independent exploration in Kyoto. You may wish to visit additional temples and shrines, enjoy riverside walks along the Kamo River, shop, or take a day trip to Nara, Japan’s first permanent capital. Accommodation: Resol Kyoto Kawaramachi Sanjo Hotel or similar

Meals: B

After breakfast, we travel by train to the Nara Basin, where walking begins along the ancient Yamanobe Road, Japan’s oldest recorded route. The trail winds through farmland, rice paddies and bamboo groves near sacred Mount Miwa. In the late afternoon, we travel onward to Asuka, a region central to the formation of early Japanese civilisation. Your main luggage will be sent ahead to Dorogawa. Accommodation: Minshuku Wakimoto or Route Inn Sakurai

Meals: B,L,D

This morning we continue walking through Asuka, visiting archaeological sites, ancient tombs and early temples. In the afternoon, we travel to Yoshino, a UNESCO World Heritage–listed town long associated with pilgrimage and mountain worship. Overnight: Kam Kam ryokan or similar

Meals: B,D

Today’s walk follows a historic pilgrim trail through forested mountains toward Omine. We pass shrines, mountain passes and rural landscapes before travelling by bus to Dorogawa, a small onsen village known for its clear spring water and traditional remedies. Overnight: Hanaya Tokubei ryokan or similar

Meals: B,L,D

Today offers flexible walking options around Dorogawa. Your leader will suggest routes based on weather and group preference, or you may choose to relax and enjoy the slow pace of village life and the onsen facilities. Overnight: Hanaya Tokubei ryokan or similar

Meals: B,D

This morning we walk through scenic Mitarai Gorge, following the river across bridges and forest paths. Seasonal colours make this a particularly striking walk. After lunch, we travel by bus and train to Osaka. On arrival, we enjoy a guided orientation walk through the city, including the lively Dotonbori area. Overnight: Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Hotel or similar

Meals: B,L

This morning we explore parts of Osaka on foot, such as Kuromon Market or the specialist shopping streets of Namba. The afternoon is free for independent sightseeing before we gather in the evening for a final farewell dinner. Overnight: Dormy Inn Osaka Tanimachi, or Hearton Hotel Osaka Nishi Umeda, or similar

Meals: B,D

The trip concludes after breakfast. Kansai International Airport is approximately 90 minutes away by public transport. Travel to Tokyo Narita Airport takes approximately 5 hours.

Meals: B

Ready to start your adventure?

11 scheduled departures between 1 Nov 2026 and 14 Nov 2027.

  • Departs 1 Nov 2026 – ends 15 Nov 2026 (15 days)
  • Departs 15 Nov 2026 – ends 29 Nov 2026 (15 days)
  • Departs 14 Mar 2027 – ends 28 Mar 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 28 Mar 2027 – ends 11 Apr 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 11 Apr 2027 – ends 25 Apr 2027 (15 days)
  • Departs 9 May 2027 – ends 23 May 2027 (15 days)
  • … and 5 more departures.
View dates to Book

What's included?

Included

  • 9 dinners, 3 lunches, 14 breakfasts
  • Traditional ryokan accommodation on a twin share basis
  • All transportation by public train, public bus and taxi as per the itinerary
  • Luggage transfers (one piece per person) as listed in the itinerary
  • Sightseeing and entry fees as listed in the itinerary
  • Expert bilingual guide
  • Medical kit

Not included

  • International flights
  • Airport and departure taxes
  • Visa fees
  • Travel insurance (compulsory)
  • Meals not listed as included
  • Personal expenses such as phone calls and laundry
  • Bottled water, aerated and alcoholic drinks
  • Arrival and departure transfers
  • Any items not listed as included

Videos

Kyoto and Izu, Japan: National Geographic Adventure | World Expeditions
Kyoto and Izu, Japan: National Geographic Adventure | World Expeditions
Japan: National Geographic Adventure | World Expeditions
Tokyo, Japan: National Geographic Adventure | World Expeditions

Reviews (152)

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Perhaps more testing than we were led to expect but a wonderful experience that we wouldn’t have missed. Full marks to Pepijn who was leader, mentor, guide and encouraging for us all. And for his tips and knowledge that allowed us to sample so much of Japan’s unbelievable food. But top marks also for the way he gave us context for all of the different elements of topography, history and culture. Walking parts of the Nakasendo Trail and later, the forests aroundDorogawa were especially memorable. We were also very well served during our visits t the major cities - Tokyo, Kyoto and Osaka. We really appreciated being with a wonderful group of people- fellow adventurers all who made our tour so memorable. Thank you World Expeditions.

Peter|VIC, Australia
7 May 2026
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Excellent guide , capable, experienced and unflappabile. Accomodation well located and very good standard. Walks were away from the tourist path.

Fiona|VIC, Australia
5 May 2026
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It was well planned and executed. A little harder than I anticipated but enjoyable all the same. Pepijn was a wonderful guide. Very helpful and explained so much.

Gillian|VIC, Australia
5 May 2026
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The Backroads of Japan was an outstanding adventure and a perfect introduction to Japan for the first-time visitor. Our leaders, Akemi, Pipijn, Sonny and Yukiay were wonderful hosts with amazing knowledge and touring skills. Even when the weather wasn't kind to us they still manage to conduct a perfect itinerary.

Christopher|WA, Australia
29 Apr 2026
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The beginning of the tour was fantastic and the team did an amazing job looking after us. However, there was a change of tour leader for the last few days, which affected the tour in a negative way. The group had different walking levels/speeds, but the replacement tour leader had his own speed and would hike off, not looking to see how the rest of the group was going. One of our team was unwell with a very bad cold/cough, and I was experiencing chest pains, but at no stage did the tour leader have anyone at the back of the group to keep an eye on how we were going. We ended up having to look after ourselves. Hiking 101 is always have someone at the front and someone at the back. If something had happened, the tour leader would have had no idea. I would have graded the overall tour better, had it not been for the lack of leadership/responsibility of the replacement tour leader.

John|New Zealand
21 Apr 2026
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My wife and I had an incredible time on our Backroads of Japan tour. This was our first ever international trip, and even with booking a tour, we weren't sure what to expect. Fortunately, our tour guide was simply phenomenal. He was perfectly fluent in Japanese and English, knowledgeable in every facet of the country (down to the geology!), attentive to the needs of our very diverse group, and knew every nook and rest stop along every trail we hiked. Overall, I made friends and many more memories through this unforgettable itinerary, and I would recommend it to anyone looking to experience Japan for the first time.

Troy|Alabama, United States
24 Nov 2025
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Adventurous and exciting trip. Our guide was well organised, a great communicator, took great care of all of us, lots of fun.

Margaret|NSW, Australia
7 Nov 2025
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Zachary was a knowledgeable and caring guide, well prepared and organized. I very much enjoyed the itinerary, particularly the backroads parts, walking through the countryside. The food and accommodations added greatly to the enjoyment of the trip. We were lucky to enjoy great weather for the duration of the trip, and the group was easy to be with. Taking public buses and trains between walks added to the experience of the culture. The hiking was more challenging than expected, but quite manageable. I very much recommend Backroads of Japan for anyone wanting a more intimate experience of Japanese culture.

George|Ontario, Canada
6 Nov 2025
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My trip overall was wonderful.

Our guide Zachary Kurtz was absolutely phenomenal! He was so attentive to every single detail. His great knowledge of Japanese history & culture and his fluency of the Japanese language, both speaking & writing. He was also excellent at being able to read people, physical ability & congeniality etc.

Heather|British Columbia, Canada
29 Oct 2025

Extra trip info

AccommodationWill My Trip Run?FAQsWhy Book With Us
Sunroute Asakusa TWN room

Tokyo Accommodation

In the cities we use modern, centrally located 3 star hotels. A typical hotel we frequently use in Tokyo is the Sunroute Asakusa as pictured. This hotel is close to Asakusa, one of Tokyo's most famous tourist spots, a very convenient location for you to visit areas such as Sensoji, Kaminari-mon, Kappabashi street and so on. Also Tokyo Skytree is one station away from Tobu-Asakusa Station and there are also many excellent eating options in the surrounding area. Offering simple but comfortable rooms, with free wi-fi and excellent service, this hotel is an ideal base for your exploration of Tokyo.

Shin-Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Hotel TWN room

Osaka Accommodation

In Osaka we use the Shin Osaka Esaka Tokyu REI Hotel. Just a minute’s walk from Esaka Subway Station exits 4 & 9. This is a modern, centrally located property with comfortable, simply furnished rooms offering western en-suite bathroom, free Wi-Fi, tea & coffee facilities, satellite TV and a restaurant offering a buffet breakfast. Umeda Station is just a 9 minute walk and from nearby Esaka Station, Shin-Osaka Shinkansen Station is a 4min subway ride. Tarumi Shrine is a 20min walk and Osaka Itami Airport is a 15min drive. The area also offers many great eateries within easy walking distance.

Hanaya ryokan, Tsumago

Traditional Ryokan Accommodation

In the countryside we stay in atmospheric, family-run inns, with comfortable western-style hotels in the major cities. The Japanese “ryokan” is such a delicate environment, with compact spaces and displayed heirlooms, that for the first encounter something of a bull-in-a-china-shop feeling is inevitable - especially in the entrance as shoes are put on and removed. But this reaction normalises as we and the innkeepers get used to each others ways. Traditional-style accommodation means sleeping on “futon” bedding laid out on tatami floors.

Ryokan Asunaro Takayama, day time set-up

Traditional Ryokan Room

Ryokan triple room set-up

Traditional Ryokan Room Sleeping on Tatami Mats

Every departure date advises whether the date is confirmed, and roughly how full it is. Here is what each one means.

Is the departure confirmed?

Guaranteed to go This departure has reached its minimum number and will run.
It is the point travellers should wait for before booking any non-refundable flights.
Close to guaranteed This appears only when a date is close to reaching minimum numbers. If it shows 1 or 2 to guaranteed, book as a pair on a date needing two and it reaches its minimum. Your booking confirms the date for everybody already booked.

How full is the date I am looking at?

Space is filling or Space is filling fast This date has bookings and places are still open. Filling fast means limited spots available, so don't leave your decision too late.
Closing soon Down to its last few places, or close enough to departure that we are finalising numbers. Still bookable online.
Closed Not bookable online - either full, or inside the notice we need to arrange permits, flights and logistics. Ask us anyway, you never know!

Availability questions answered

Will this trip actually go ahead, or could it be cancelled?

If a date shows Guaranteed to go, it runs regardless of further bookings.

What does 2 to guarantee mean?

It means two travellers are enough to confirm the departure. It could be 2 more to add to the group, or the date only needs 2 people to run. Either way, if you book for two people, the date will become guaranteed to run.

What happens if my departure does not reach minimum numbers?

You will know the status before you book. Every date on this page is labelled, and dates marked “Guaranteed to go” are running regardless of further bookings. Where a date has not reached its minimum we either offer a surcharge to operate for a smaller group size so it can still run, or we cancel it. We contact you directly either way.

Will I get my money back if you cancel a departure?

If we cancel a departure due to not meeting minimum trip numbers, you receive a full refund of everything you have paid us less any non recoverable costs, where insurance may cover you. We cannot refund money committed elsewhere – additional non refundable deposits advised at the time of booking, flights, visas, vaccinations, gear - which is why it is worth waiting for “Guaranteed to go” before booking other arrangements around this trip date. Please read our Booking Terms and Conditions before you book.

Why can't I book some dates online?

Each trip closes online a set time before departure. Permits, internal flights and hut or campsite bookings all have to be arranged before we take payment. Call or enquire as it might still be possible to organise last minute places.

The date I want is closed. What are my options and why does it say to enquire?

Cancellations happen and places do open up on closed dates, so it is worth being on our list. We can also tell you which nearby date on the same trip has space, which is usually the faster route.

None of these dates suit me. Can you run this trip on another date?

Yes, as a private departure. We can run this trip on a date you choose, for your own group - family, friends, a club, or in many cases, just for the two of you. Tell us when you want to travel and who is coming, and we will build it around that.

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Spring (March–May) is perfect for cherry blossoms and clear walking weather. Autumn (October–November) offers vibrant foliage and mild conditions. These seasons are very popular, so early booking is recommended.

Very. You'll visit historic towns, stay in locally run accommodation, taste regional cuisine, and walk ancient paths that shaped Japan’s early identity. Daily interactions and your guide’s knowledge will add rich layers of context.

This trip is graded Introductory to Moderate, expect daily walks of 3–16km (1.5–10mi) with varied terrain including forest trails, hills, village paths and stone-paved routes. A good level of fitness will help you enjoy the experience fully.

Yes. A knowledgeable, English-speaking local leader will accompany the group throughout the journey, enriching your understanding of Japan’s culture, history and landscapes.

You’ll stay in a mix of traditional ryokans, family-run guesthouses, countryside inns, and selected city hotels. Several offer onsen bathing. These properties reflect the regions visited and allow for authentic local experiences.

No. Luggage transfers are arranged between key locations. On a few occasions, you’ll carry a small overnight bag while your main luggage is forwarded.

  • Thoughtfully balanced itinerary combining iconic cities with rural trails
  • Authentic accommodation in traditional inns, some with natural hot spring baths
  • Our trusted local guides enrich each day with cultural insight and on-the-ground knowledge
  • Sustainability matters and this trip supports local inns and family-run stays, with low-impact travel designed to tread lightly and connect meaningfully.

Guaranteeing A Great Japan Trip

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Quality accommodations
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