Planning your Japan Adventure
KODO Travel draws on a vast network of guides, accommodation providers and local communities to deliver original and authentic itineraries. We specialize in adventure, but that doesn’t mean it’s all highly active and away from the big cities. Adventure can mean different things for different people and a key part of our process is getting to know you.
Be Inspired
Japan is not only a treasure chest of art, history, food and culture – the long archipelago is blessed with immense natural beauty and four distinctive seasons. Between tropical beaches to the south and ice floes to the north, Japan boasts primeval forests, deep-snow covered peaks, fast flowing rivers and smouldering volcanoes. It’s the perfect playground for adventure. Whether it’s back-country skiing in Hokkaido, hiking the ancient paths of the Kiso valley, cycling through the quiet roads of Noto, catching a wave in Tokushima or kayaking the Seto Inland Sea, we will be sure to match your passion for adventure among the abundance of experiences Japan has on offer.
Whether you know what you want or need some inspiration, we will work with you to create an adventure that will exceed all expectations. We take care of every detail of your trip – where you go, what you do, and how you get there. On arrival, you will have access to us throughout your trip to enable changes at a moment’s notice, ensuring you love every second of your time in Japan.
Stay in Luxury
We seek out refined and authentic places to stay. With varying tastes and budgets, we seek to understand your definition of luxury. After a day hiking or cycling, coming back to rest and recharge, eat amazing food and reflect on the day’s adventure is so important. For some, luxury can mean a rustic mountain cabin with a private hot spring or the refined hospitality from a 7th generation ‘Okami-san’ at a traditional Ryokan. We understand that while tastes differ, a high standard of comfort and service is paramount. There is one thing you can be sure of when booking with KODO – a selection of quality accommodation to match and compliment your adventure in Japan.
Getting Around
They say getting there is half the fun. We believe the way you travel defines your journey and connection to the destination, which is why we are huge advocates of ‘human-powered’ travel. It sets the scene, tone and rhythm for what’s to come. We love to ride bikes, hike or run trails, paddle rivers or slide down canyons.
When it comes to logistics of moving around Japan, we’re experts in matching travel methods to reach your destination. Japan has incredible transport infrastructure such as the ‘always on time’ Shinkansen. We can arrange internal flights, rail journeys, private vehicles, and personable rickshaws.
Testimonials
Paul Casserly from Seven Sharp, TVNZ
“Shannon was integral to helping us with logistics on the ground in Tokyo while we were there filming in the lead up to the Rugby World Cup 2019. With daily live crosses to do, his understanding of what media need and helping us find the colour stories we were after was superb. He helped us with story ideas, filming permissions, interpreting and getting us to places on time to film. He was quick and flexible when we needed to make changes. Highly recommend to any visiting media seeking a ‘fixer’ on the ground.”
Irene & Phillip from Getmany
“With only a few weeks to plan our trip, Shannon put together a fantastic week for us in Japan. We loved the unique accommodations and were delighted with the variety starting with a chic boutique hotel in the city when we arrived, followed by a modern Zen feel hotel in Kyoto and finally a traditional Ryokan experience with one of the most beautiful meals I have ever laid eyes on. The guides were lovely and we extended our trip for an extra day in Tokyo, which was no problem for them to make the adjustments.”
Ian & Patti from New Zealand
“We just wanted to say a big thank you for arranging the Kyoto tour. Aiko was a superb guide, knowledgeable and easy to talk to and get along with. And we loved doing things like ‘locals’ using the buses, trains and walking around with her and not being part of a bus tour. As she was schooled in Nelson (NZ) her Kiwi English was great! The itinerary was perfect and the highlight was the Maiko/ Geisha evening and we had a great opportunity to talk to the Maiko over a couple of hours and understand a lot about this part of Japanese culture.”