Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour

Start your journey in the charming port town of Obama with a guided half-day walking tour through historic streets, traditional wooden houses, and the Saba-kaido Monument and Museum—an ideal introduction to this charming seaside oasis before your hike begins!

This morning following breakfast, you’ll meet your guide for a full day of hiking along the Saba Kaido. Venture into the mountains and follow the ancient Saba Kaidō, where sacred waters and samurai paths weave through history. Visit landmarks like Jingu-ji Temple and Unose, tied to the 1,300-year-old Omizu-Okuri ritual, then stroll through the tranquil village of Kaminegori and cross the scenic Harihatatoge Pass. End your day at a serene countryside inn, embraced by the peaceful rhythms of nature in Kuta.

Continue your journey through quiet villages and moss-covered wetlands as you make your way toward the outskirts of Kyoto. This 17 km guided hike passes through the charming Ogose and Omi villages, as well as the lush Haccho-daira Wetlands. The trail concludes at Hanase Pass, marking the end of this unforgettable stretch of the Saba Kaidō. After the hike, a private vehicle will take you to Kyoto, where you’ll spend the night.

The journey continues this morning to Ise! Ise Jingu Grand Shrine, the spiritual heart of Shinto, is a vast complex featuring two main shrines: the Geku (Outer Shrine) and the Naiku (Inner Shrine). Today, you can explore the Geku, and before visiting, consider stopping by SENGU KAN (entrance fee not included) to gain deeper insight into the significance of Ise Jingu for the Japanese people.

Take a train to Futamigaura this morning, home to the seaside Futami Okitama Jinja, where pilgrims traditionally purified their mind, body, and spirit before continuing to Ise Grand Shrine. After your visit, catch a local bus to the Naiku area, where you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants for lunch in Oharai-machi or Okage Yokocho. Once refreshed, explore Naiku—the most sacred shrine with a history spanning over 1,500 years.

A private vehicle will drive you along the coast to Owase, where you’ll take a lunch break at a roadside station before starting your first hike on the stunning Kumano Kodo trail. The ascent up Magose Pass offers some of the most breathtaking views along the entire route. After your rewarding hike, relax with a delicious dinner and a restful night in Owase.

Take the train from Owase to Odomari to begin today’s hike along cobblestone paths, passing serene Buddhist statues at Matsumoto Pass. Along the way, visit a massive sacred rock at one of Japan’s oldest shrines, then take a bus to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, where the sacred Kumano-gawa River meets the Pacific Ocean.

Finally, explore Kamikura Shrine, believed to be the spot where the god of Hayatama Taisha first descended from the heavens. After a full day of spiritual reflection and nature worship, unwind at a charming Japanese snack bar run by two former Geishas.

This morning a train, bus, and short walk will take you to the day’s highlight: Nachi Taisha Shrine, along with nearby Nachi Falls and Seigantoji Temple. As one of the three sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines, Nachi Taisha has drawn pilgrims for centuries and is sure to be a highlight of your time in this region.

On the final day of your tour, relax in the soothing hot springs at your hotel or the communal bath in Nachi Katsuura before visiting the local seafood market to savor the freshest catches. Afterwards, take the train to Osaka to conclude your journey.