Below are a sample of our unique experiences. We offer a holistic approach in planning and developing your itinerary from start to finish, as well as custom tours to add to your overall Japan travel plans. From full multi-day expeditions to introductory level adventures, we can connect you to the best guides and specialists throughout Japan.
Awaken your Yamabushi spirit
An Expedition in the Kiso Valley
Shizuoka – The Home of Mt. Fuji
Deep into the Kii Peninsula
Awaken your Yamabushi spirit
The Yamabushi are the mountain priests of Japan. Their traditional role was to help guide people to their true nature, and to teach discipline and warrior ways. Today, their numbers are few however the work they do has not changed. The Yamabushi offer what is perhaps more relevant in today’s society than ever before.
Guided with an English speaking Yamabushi, this ancient practice is open to anyone, religious or non-religious, male or female, looking to rediscover the intrinsic connection we have with the natural world. From rigorous and fully immersive 4-day training programs, to a highlights and insider look into the Yamabushi practice, we can curate an optimal experience.
Take an unforgettable journey of self-development and rediscover the spirit of Nature.
An Expedition in the Kiso Valley
The Kiso Valley offers a beautifully preserved section of the Nakasendo, the path that linked Kyoto and Tokyo during Japan’s feudal period. It was the ‘road through the mountains’ traveled by feudal lords, samurai, merchants, and travellers. Along the route were ‘post towns’, where weary travellers could rest before continuing on the next leg. It feels like a time slip walking along those very same ancient paths and though it is becoming increasingly popular, with our expert guides we offer exclusive multi-day experiences beyond the mainstream to take you deeper into the mountains where sacred giant trees grow and waterfalls flow.
Here we have access to one of Japan’s best hidden boutique lodges, a gorgeous farmhouse that has been restored to a level of luxury not seen elsewhere in the region. The calming Zen atmosphere of this sanctuary offers a quiet respite on today’s modern journey between Tokyo and Kyoto. An array of activities such as paragliding, canyoning, e-biking are on offer to guests and the locally sourced and seasonal menu, is reason alone to visit.
Shizuoka - The home of Mt. Fuji
Mount Fuji, or Fujisan as the Japanese call it, a near perfect conical volcano and symbol of Japan. As Japan’s highest mountain at 3776m (12,388ft), it lies in a geological wonderland of moving tectonic plates, lava flows, rich soil, and spring water. It stands alone, in all its magnificence and its spiritual presence runs deep in the Japanese psyche, inspiring poems, art and spiritual reverence over the millennia. We have crafted an adventure that takes you through the prefecture of Shizuoka, the home of Mt. Fuji and discover the special connection the people have with this mountain.
Our journey will start in Izu, a rugged peninsula jutting out into the Pacific Ocean. Explore the old Shimoda Kaido path, stopping to pick your own wasabi. E-bike up a mountain pass and descend down to the rugged west coast and village of Matsuzaki. Choose to raise the heart rate a notch with an epic mountain bike trail ride through old charcoal trading paths , or a more relaxing option of sea kayak fishing in the deep waters of Suruga Bay.
The grand mountain beckons you closer as we travel north and prepare to climb Fujisan. Stay overnight in a mountain hut and hike to the summit for the sunrise. Upon descent, wash away the fatigue in a soothing Onsen hot pool and sleep under canvas in an eco camp in a village at the base of the mountain. Stay a while and discover the local life, or continue on the nearby Tokaido bullet train to your next destination.
Deep into the Kii Peninsula - The Kumano Kodo
The Kumano Kodo is a network of trails throughout the mountainous Kii Peninsula that has attracted pilgrims for over a thousand years. People from all levels of society, including retired emperors and aristocrats, have made the arduous pilgrimage to Kumano. The walk itself was an integral part of the pilgrimage process as they undertook rigorous religious rites of worship and purification.
The Kumano Kodo pilgrimage routes were registered as UNESCO World Heritage as part of the “Sacred Sites and Pilgrimage Routes in the Kii Mountain Range” in 2004. As a result, much work has gone into restoring and sustaining the routes for visitors to rediscover what has drawn pilgrims to this region for centuries. Walking these ancient paths opens the way to experience a deep cultural and spiritual journey through this beautiful landscape. This journey offers deep insights into how Buddhism and Shintoism interplay and coexist. Without any religious dogma, it is simply an insight into Japan’s spiritual practices and the deep respect for Nature. Take the time to slow down and be present in the moment, while we take you on a journey through the Kumano Kodo and explore the Kii Peninsula.
