These tours are great for first time visitors to Japan looking for comfortable accommodation with all entrance fees and most meals included. Our Japan Deluxe Tours are accomodated with professional tour guides, fluent in both Japanese and English, to ensure an educational and valuable visit. Air-conditoned, private coaches are also included, so you can enjoy a comfortable and hassle-free time in Japan. Our tours range from 7 to 21 days, to various regions of Japan.
These tours combine enrichment, enjoyment, and education with time to truly absorb and appreciate your surroundings. Our Deluxe-Plus small group tours are created to cater to those who are interested in having a deeper understanding of Japan's culture. You will have the opportunity to participate in culturally rich activities and visit destinations only locals may know. Experience luxurious hotels and travel at a leisurely pace when you book a Deluxe-Plus small group tour.
Explore the must-see sights and enjoy the hassle-free trip to Japan at an affordable price. Our most cost-effective way to see the highlights of Japan while staying in budget-friendly accommodations. If you would like to have a quick stop to sample the must-see sights of Japan, or plan to explore Japan on your own but would like to take a short trip to learn about Japan before your self-guided journeys. These are the tours for you.
Explore Japan off the beaten path via Japanese public transportation, walking, hiking, cycling and more. Take more time to enjoy local experiences and picturesque landscape. Our Active Small Group Tours combine the best of cultural destinations with off-the-beaten-path via Japanese public transportation, Discover the country of Japan the way the locals do and see Japan from a different angle. A focus on getting away from the crowds and into the real Japan, see the diversity of Japan’s countryside unfold before your eyes.
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Single Supplement:
The price is per person, based on twin or triple room occupancy
For single travelers, this tour has a single supplement. This guarantees a single room throughout the tour
Prices are excluding international flights
Single Room
Single room types are rooms for
single room occupants.
One person will be occupying the
hotel room throughout the tour.
Twin Room
Twin room types are rooms set for two people who will occupy one room, but will have two separate beds.
Double Room
A double room is a room that has one bed for two people to share.
Triple Room
A triple room is one room where three people may share the same room. It has three separate beds.
Japanese Style Room
A Japanese-style room traditionally does not have a western-style bed, it is a tatami floor room with futon bedding. However, if you prefer a western-style bed, you may request one though we cannot guarantee it.
Please note: If you would like to request neighboring rooms next to your traveling companions, you and your traveling companions must have the same room types in order to be next to each other. For example, if you have requested a double room, but your traveling companions have requested a twin, or triple room, then neighboring rooms cannot be accommodated. However, if both you and your traveling companions match in room type, then neighboring rooms will likely be arranged for your convenience.
The Pilgrimage Route of Japan tour will allow you to access and enjoy some of the culturally attractive areas and scenic sites of Japan. The tour will take you through a journey inside the religious aspects of Japan, and give you an alternative and deeper understanding of Japanese culture and history. This itinerary will provide insight to Japan’s cultural roots to Shintoism and Buddhism, which are still practiced in some of the temples that we will be visiting. Many of the spiritual sit... View More
The Pilgrimage Route of Japan tour will allow you to
access and enjoy some of the culturally attractive
areas and scenic sites of Japan. The tour will take
you through a journey inside the religious aspects
of Japan, and give you an alternative and deeper
understanding of Japanese culture and history. This
itinerary will provide insight to Japan’s cultural
roots to Shintoism and Buddhism, which are still
practiced in some of the temples that we will be
visiting. Many of the spiritual sites are located in
places surrounded by nature. This means that you
will be rewarded with scenic views that will invoke
a sense of calmness. Be immersed in the
environment
as you will have the opportunity to experience the
lifestyles and cultures firsthand.
Before beginning the pilgrimage routes, we will
first journey through historical and landmark
figures like Himeji Castle, Kurashiki and Hiroshima.
Then, we will begin with the scenic routes of this
tour by visiting Miyajima Island, one of Japan's
three most scenic places (nihon sankei). Then drive
through the Shimanami Kaido, a 60 kilometer long
toll road that connects Japan's main island of
Honshu to the island of Shikoku, passing over six
small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. Most of
Shikoku is still largely untouched by mass tourism.
This is a place of immense natural beauty, seeped in
colorful legend, history, and dotted with 88
pilgrimage temples.
Take a ferry to Wakayama and visit Koyasan. You will
have the opportunity
to experience staying at a temple and to eat a
Shojin Ryori (vegetarian)
dinner. In the morning, you will join the monks in
their meditation practice
in order to further understand their spiritual
customs. In Kumano, we will
be walking and breathing in the sites of the trail
along temples and shrines
among other significant structures of the Kumano
Kodo Pilgrimage Trail,
a UNESCO World Heritage Site. From those holy
grounds you can see the tallest
waterfall in Japan, Nachi Fall. It is said that the
deity of the waterfall
is enshrined at the main shrine. Ise Grand Shrine is
one of the most important
shrines in Japan and is rebuilt every twenty years
to symbolize death and
rebirth. It is surrounded by 300 year old cedar
trees and untouched foliage.
After visiting the mountains and temples, we will
visit one of the lesser
known treasures of Japan where pearl harvesting
was
first officially crafted
into an art and trade.
Our Pilgrimage Route of Japan is a tour that will
bring you cultural awareness of the historical past
and belief systems so rooted in Japan.
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| Start Date | End Date | Twin/Triple | Start City | End City | Style | Compare | Status |
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Please Note:
All prices are per person, based on twin (double on request) or triple occupancy.
International flights are not included on our tours - this allows you the flexibility to choose your own departure and get the best value for your money!
We can arrange international flights for US customers if needed, please ask for details.
We require US$200 deposit per person to hold the space at time of booking and the final payment is due 2 month prior to departure.
Travel by private coach between destinations, hassle free baggage handling.
This tour starts and finishes in Osaka for arrivals and departures at Osaka Kansai Airport (KIX).
Vegetarian or special meals can be arranged.
Please note that the meet and greet and airport transfer to the first hotel is ONLY available on the first day of the tour after 11 AM. If you plan to stay extra nights before the start of the tour, we will provide full instructions in advance for you to transfer to your hotel on your own.
Welcome to Osaka! You will be met at the arrival gate by an AJT representative holding an "All Japan Tours" sign.
NOTE 1: If you wish to stay in the center of Osaka for the first night instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included, but we will provide you directions to get to your hotel in advance.
NOTE 2: If you will be flying into Itami Airport (ITM) instead of Kansai International Airport (KIX), we can arrange for you to stay in the center of Osaka (Hotel Elsereine Osaka or similar class) instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport. In this case, airport transfer and meet- and-greet are not included, but we will provide with full instructions to get to the hotel in advance.
NOTE 3: The meet and greet is ONLY available for flights arriving in Terminal 1 after 11:00 AM. For guests arriving in Terminal 2, airport pickup is not included, but and we will provide you with directions to get to your hotel in advance.
NOTE 4: If you wish to stay extra nights before the tour starts, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
Today we take a 2-hour ride on a private coach to Himeji to visit the Himeji Castle. It is known as "White Egret Castle" and "White Heron Castle" because of its brilliant white exterior, which resembles a bird taking flight. Himeji Castle is the largest, most visited castle in Japan, and is one of the few remaining original castles in the country. This splendid example of traditional architecture was declared one of the first UNESCO World Heritage Sites in Japan. Next is a visit to Kurashiki. Back in the day this scenic town thrived as a port for rice shipments. Several old rice granaries and examples of historic architecture still remain, in addition to the stone-lined canal. We will also visit the Ohara Museum of Art, which is considered the first museum of Western art in Japan. It is a private museum consisting of three adjacent buildings next to the canal. In the afternoon, we will continue our journey to Hiroshima for two nights.
Today our travels will continue with a visit to the Peace Memorial Park, the iconic landmark of Hiroshima's memorial for those who passed away in the infamous Hiroshima bombing on August 6th, 1945. There, we will also enter the A-Bomb Museum where documents, artifacts, and videos are displayed throughout the museum. After lunch, we will take a short ferry ride to the island of Miyajima; the cherry blossoms on the island are a spectacular sight. At high tide we can see the famed vermilion torii gate of the Itsukushima Shrine looks like it's floating in the middle of the sea. The shrine complex is listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site, while Miyajima has been selected as one of Japan's three most scenic places (nihon sankei).
In the morning, we will drive through the Shimanami Kaido to Shikoku Island. The Shimanami Kaido is a 60 kilometer long toll road that connects Japan's main island of Honshu to the island of Shikoku, passing over six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. It is also known as the Nishiseto Expressway. We will stop by Kirosan Observatory where you can take in views of the Kurushima Kaikyo Bridges standing among hundreds of islands that are beautifully scattered all over the Seto Inland Sea. The modern observation deck was cleverly designed and built halfway into the ground of the hillside so as not to spoil the natural surroundings. We then proceed to Takamatsu with a stop at the Shikoku Mura Village. Shikoku Mura (Shikoku Village) is an open air museum situated at the base of Yashima. This pleasant hillside park preserves and exhibits traditional buildings and structures that have been relocated here from all over Shikoku Island. Then visit Ritsurin Park, a masterpiece of Japanese landscape 100 years in the making. This sprawling park features beautiful ponds and pavilions with Mt. Shiun as the perfect backdrop.
We continue our journey today at Naruto. Naruto is the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which leads around the island to visit 88 temples across Shikoku associated with the famous Buddhist monk, Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Naruto's Ryozenji Temple is the first temple of the pilgrimage. We will be traveling by foot for approximately 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from Ryozenji Temple to Gokurakuji Temple. From Shikoku Island, we will board a ferry to Honshu Island where we will stay in a monastery in Koyasan complete with authentic Buddhist vegetarian meals. We will experience life very much as a monk would in Japan. Koyasan is the center of Shingon Buddhism, a Buddhist sect that was introduced to Japan in 805 by Kobo Daishi, one of the most significant personalities in Japan’s religious history. The temple complex of over 100 temples is located on a mountain top, surrounded by cedar trees and mountain peaks. After a vegetarian dinner at the temple, you will have the option to follow your guide at night to Okunoin's gravesite. It is the largest cemetary in Japan where the founder of Shingon Buddhism is said to be in eternal meditation.
Today activities begin with reflection as we medidate with the monks of Koyasan. Then we will go to Okunoin Temple that is surrounded by many grave markings, the majority of which are old and worn out. The gravesite is also the resting place of the founder of Shingon Buddhism in Japan, Kobo Daishi. Next is Kongobuji Temple which was originally built by Toyotomi Hideyoshi, one of Nobunaga's generals during the warring era. The temple also has the Ohiroma room, a special room designated for ceremonies and rituals with tatami mat floors and elegantly designed sliding doors. The pilgrimage finishes at Danjo Garan, a temple complex also belonging to Kobo Daishi's original foundations. Painted in brilliant vermillion color, one of the pagoda structures called the Konpon Daito stands out amongst the others.
This morning we head out to the Kumano Kodo Pilgrimage Trail, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, where pilgrims have walked the forest trails for over 1000 years. The Kumano region is the mountainous southern portion of the Kii Hanto, the largest Peninsula of Japan, where sacred trails are still used for the pilgrimage to the three grand shrines of Kumano. We will walk along a short section of Daimon-zaka Trail and visit the 133 metre high Nachi Waterfall, whose vertical torrent pouring over the cliff edge into the virgin forest, is said to be the highest in Japan. We slowly climb the pilgrim's steps to visit Seigantoji Temple, originally built in 1590, and a very picturesque 3 storied vermilion coloured pagoda that creates a perfect picture of Japanese tranquillity.
The pilgrimage continues to Ise Shima where the Ise Grand Shrine is located. The Ise Grand Shrine has a two- thousand year history, is Japan's most important Shinto shrine, and serves as the centre of all Shinto shrines nationwide. Situated near the banks of the Isuzu River, the shrine is surrounded by Japanese cedar trees, some 800 years old. The inner shrine is considered to be the abode of Amaterasu, the sun goddess, the deity the emperor was considered to be descended from. At Okage Yokocho Street we can experience the townscape of a bygone era, where buildings leading to the inner shrine reproduce the architecture and atmosphere that surrounded Ise pilgrims during the Edo Period (1600-1868). Our next stop is at Mikimoto Pearl Island where in 1893, Kokichi Mikimoto first perfected the technique of producing cultured pearls and started a now world wide industry. Here we see 'Ama' , women pearl divers, demonstrate their skills, watch how cultured pearls are produced and see a truly amazing collection of million dollar treasures made with pearls.
NOTE 5: If you wish to stay in the center of Osaka for the last night instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport, we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class). In this case, airport transfer is not included, but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
NOTE 6: If you will be flying out from Itami Airport (ITM) instead of Kansai International Airport (KIX), we can arrange for you to stay at Hotel Elsereine Osaka (or similar class) instead of Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport. In this case, airport transfer is not included but we will provide full instructions for you to get to the airport in advance.
After breakfast, our tour officially ends. Checkout time is 11 am and Osaka Kansai Airport can be reached in a three minute walk.
NOTE 7: If you would like to stay longer in Japan, please contact us to book hotel accommodations.
They city of Himeji is located in western Kansai and is known for one of Japan’s most beautiful and finest castles. This is a popular destination or side-trip for tourist visiting Kyoto or Osaka. Himeji is famously known for the beautiful Himeji castle, which is both a national treasure castle and listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site. There are plenty of shops, food, and sight-seeing spots available for tourist visiting Himeji.
Japan's best preserved feudal castle (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Himeji Castle is located in the city of Himeji and is only a five minute bus ride away from Himeji Station. Himeji Castle the most popular and visited castle in Japan, it is also listed both as one of Japan’s national treasure castles and as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This castle is also one of Japan’s twelve original castles, which means it was never destroyed in its history and has been standing since it was originally completed in the year 1609. The surrounding area is also one of Japan’s most popular cherry blossom destinations during the spring.
Located near Okayama City in the Okayama Prefecture is the city of Kurashiki, which is known for its well preserved Edo Period canal area. Guests can visit one of the most beautifully canal areas in Japan, where many of the buildings that were once storehouses have been turned into modern attractions. The Ohara Museum of Art is also a great museum for tourist to visit while exploring Kurashiki. Other popular destinations include the Ohashi House, Ivy Square, and many museums.
Canal lined by willows and old storehouses.
Kurashiki’s canal area is one of Japan’s most beautifully preserved canals that date back as far to the Edo Period. The canals were once used to transport rice into the storehouses where they would be shipped to cities such as Osaka and Tokyo (was known as Edo during those times). Now this historic area is the most popular destination for tourist visiting Kurashiki. Many of the historic storehouses have been turned into shops, cafes, restaurants, and museums for guests to enjoy.
The oldest Western art museum in Japan.
Located in Kurashiki’s historic canal area is the Ohara Museum of Art was Japan’s first museum of Western Art. This museum was the first museum built for western art in all of Japan and holds many displays of western art. There are many masterpieces of art on display from famous artist, such as Picasso, Pollock, Modigliani, and many more. There are three buildings that visitors can visit, the main gallery, annex, and the Kojima Museum. Each building features different displays of western art, Japanese art, sculptures, and other forms of art.
Hiroshima is the capital city of the Hiroshima Prefecture located on the western region of Japan’s main island Honshu. This city is unfortunately remembered for its tragic history from the dropping of the atomic bombs, but this modern city is now a top destination for travelers. Many western visitors, especially Americans, feel apprehensive about visiting this city, but it is like any other friendly city in Japan that welcomes tourist. Guests can visit the many museums available, the Hiroshima Peace Park, or Hiroshima Castle, and other popular destinations.
Remembering the drop of the atomic bomb (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
The Hiroshima Peace Park is a memorial park located in the center of the Hiroshima City. Many of the memorials related to the dropping of the atomic bomb are located in and around this area. The park is the location to the memorials such as the A-Bomb Dome, Children’s Peace Monument, and the Peace Memorial Museum. This area is also listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Site.
The Hiroshima Peace Memorial Museum collects and displays belongings left by the victims.
The Peace Memorial Museum is one of the main destinations for guests visiting the Hiroshima Peace Park. The features the history of Hiroshima, effects of the atomic bomb, and its aftermath. Guests visiting the museum can explore the various artifacts and displays related to the atomic blast.
Itsukushima Island, is famously called Miyajima Island and located only an hour outside of Hiroshima and is a popular tourist destination for people visiting the Hiroshima area. It is famous for the large torii gate that seems to be floating on water during high tide (ranked as one of Japan’s top three most scenic views). There are many activities for visitors to explore, there is a temple, museum, walking trails, aquarium, and more to view.
Famous shrine with floating torii gate (UNESCO World Heritage Site).
One of the most famous and well known shrines in Japan is the Itsukushima Shrine. This location is one of Japan’s top three most scenic places along with the famous Matsushima Bay and Amanohashidate, and brings plenty of tourist every year. This shrine and its famous torii gate are built over the water, which makes it seem like it is floating in the sea. Guests can stay in the ryokan hotels nearby or ride one of the many boat cruises while here.
In the eastern Hiroshima Prefecture is the town of Onomichi, which is located along the Seto Inland Sea on the mainland side. There are many attractions in this town, and the most popular are Onomichi’s Temple Walk, and the Shimanami Kaido. Onomichi’s Temple Walk is a long walkway that allows visitors to visit over more than 20 of Onomichi’s temples. The Shimanami Kaido is a unique roadway that connects different islands together across many bridges. Visitors can also explore the many museums and shrines also available.
A 60 kilometer long toll road that connects Japan's main island of Honshu to the island of Shikoku.
One of the most unique attractions in Onomichi City is the Shimanami Kaido. This long 60 km (close to 37.25 miles) road connects the main island of Honshu to Japan’s Shikoku Island and passes over six small islands in the Seto Inland Sea. This roadway is the only way to travel into Japan’s Shikoku Island by foot or bicycle. Visitors can rent bikes to travel between Onomichi, the small six islands, and Imabari City on Shikoku Island. The scenery is spectacular and lets travelers enjoy the natural beauty of the Seto Inland Sea and the islands.
Grand view of "Kurushima-kaikyo Strait Bridge".
Located along the Shimanami Kaido is the Kirosan Observatory on Oshima Island in the Seto Inland Sea. The observatory is in a park on the southernmost part of the Oshima Island. The observatory offers a breathtaking view of the Seto Inland Sea and one of the most popular times to come is during sunset. The sunset, together with the illuminated suspension bridge, and the view of Imabari City will provide a beautiful scenery that visitors are sure to never forget.
The city of Takamatsu is the capital of the small Kagawa Prefecture. It is the home of one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens and is famous for its udon. There is plenty for visitors to explore and experience in this city. One of the most popular attractions is the Ritsurin Koen Park, which is one of Japan’s most beautiful gardens. There are also many museums available, like the popular Shikoku Mura Village and the Isamu Noguchi Garden Museum. Other attractions and activities include tasting the famous Sanuki Udon, hiking, bike riding, shopping arcades, and many more.
Open air museum about Shikoku architecture.
One of the most popular museums located in the city of Takamatsu is the Shikoku Mura Village. This is an open air museum that features preserved buildings and structures from all over Shikoku. Many of the structures on display have been relocated from all over Shikoku and provide guests with a pleasant experience of Shikoku’s history. The exhibits feature old traditional buildings, farmhouses, storehouses, and other structures.
Outstanding Japanese style landscape garden (Place of Scenic Beauty).
Ritsurin Koen Park is one of Japan’s most beautiful landscape garden located in the city of Takamastu. Many consider this garden to belong on the list of Japan’s three most beautiful gardens. This spacious and beautiful park features many ponds, hills, trees, bridges, and pavilions. There are a number of walking routes throughout the park and provides views that would leave any guest satisfied.
Naruto is the northeastern most city on Shikoku Island. Part of Tokushima Prefecture, Naruto is known for its swirling whirlpools. These can be seen in the Strait of Naruto underneath the Onaruto Bridge connecting Tokushima to Awaji Island. Naruto is also the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which leads around the island to visit 88 temples across Shikoku associated with the famous Buddhist monk, Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Naruto's Ryozenji Temple is the first temple of the pilgrimage.
Traveling by foot for approximately 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from Ryozenji Temple to Gokurakuji Temple.
Naruto is the starting point of the Shikoku Pilgrimage, which leads around the island to visit 88 temples across Shikoku associated with the famous Buddhist monk, Kobo Daishi, the founder of Shingon Buddhism. Naruto's Ryozenji Temple is the first temple of the pilgrimage. We will be traveling by foot for approximately 1.2 km (0.75 miles) from Ryozenji Temple to Gokurakuji Temple.
Mount Koya is one of Japan’s most famous mountains and is the location to many Buddhist temples. The history of Mount Koya is rich and spans over many centuries. There are many temples available for guests to visit and to learn about its history. There are some temples that offer lodging and guests can even experience vegetarian monk’s cuisine. There are plenty of cultural experiences and natural scenery available that would leave guests satisfied.
One of the best way to culturally experience Japan is staying overnight in a sacred Buddhist temple.
Shukubo is known as temple lodging, one of the best places in Japan to experience Shukubo is at the temples in the Mount Koya region. One of the best way to culturally experience Japan is staying overnight in a sacred Buddhist temple. Guests are treated to dinner and breakfast featuring delicious shojin ryori (vegetarian monk cuisine). Guests are also welcome to join the monk’s morning prayers and enjoy the temple’s gardens, halls, and baths.
Vegetarian monk cuisine.
Shojin Ryori is the famous vegetarian monk cuisine that has been developed since it was first introduced in Japan in the 6th century. There are a few locations and restaurants where guests can experience this delicious cuisine. The most popular location to experience this cuisine is in the temple lodging, where guests can stay overnight in a Buddhist temple and guests are served shojin ryori dinner and breakfast.
Visit the graveyard at night to give visitors a different special atmosphere compared to visiting during the day.
Okunoin Temple is known as one of Mount Koya’s most popular destination for visitors, many want to see Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum, but that first requires passing through Okunoin’s cemetery first. Crossing the Ichinohashi Bridge and walking through the cemetery was the traditional way to visit Okunoin. This cemetery is the largest graveyard in Japan with more than 200,000 tombstones stretching down the path to Kobo Daishi’s mausoleum. Recently, it has become very popular to visit the graveyard at night to give visitors a different special atmosphere compared to visiting during the day.
Taking part in morning meditations with the monks is a fun and unique cultural experience that any guests will appreciate.
Mount Koya has many temple lodging locations where guests can stay overnight at a Buddhist temple. Staying overnight usually includes eating the famous and delicious shojin ryori cuisine, which is vegetarian monk cuisine for dinner and breakfast. But before breakfast, guests are invited to participate in morning prayers with the monks. Taking part in morning meditations with the monks is a fun and unique cultural experience that any guests will appreciate.
Temple where Kobo Daishi is enshrined.
Okunoin Temple is one of the most famous and sacred temples in all of Japan. It is the location of the famous mausoleum of Kobo Daishi, who is one of the most famous and revered person in the religious history of Japan. There are plenty of cultural activities and landmarks for visitors to experience, including a walkthrough of Okunoin’s cemetery, which is the largest cemetery in Japan.
Head monastery of the Shingon sect.
Another one of the most popular temples located in the Mount Koya area is the Kongobuji Temple. Originally built in the year 1593, visitors can experience this historic temple by learning and exploring the many rooms in the temple grounds. The rooms in this temple were once used for important rituals and ceremonies. Visitors can also enjoy tea and snacks in the large tatami hall or enjoy the rock garden outside, which is the largest rock garden in Japan.
Koyasan's central temple complex.
The Danjo Garan is another one of the most popular temples located in the Mount Koya area. The legend goes that the founder of Shingon Buddhism (Kobo Daishi) threw his sankosho from China towards Japan. While searching Japan to establish his religion, he found his sankosho in a pine tree and the Danjo Garan Temple was built, and the pine tree still stands there today. Visitors can tour both Kondo Hall and the Konpon Daito Pagoda. Guests can experience the large wooden temple of Kondo Hall where ceremonies are still held. Next to the hall is the Konpon Daito Pagoda where it the popular Dainichi Nyorai statue.
The Kumano region is located in the south of the Mie Prefecture and even spans into the Wakayama Prefecture, but the city of Kumano is located in Mie. Kumano is mainly centered on the three sacred shrines known as the Kumano Sanzan. Kumano was also listed as one of Japan’s UNESCO World Heritage Sites for its religious treasures (the various Kumano Shrines) and its famous pilgrimage routes.
Ancient network of pilgrimage routes.
Kumano Kodo refers to a network of pilgrimage trails through the southern Kansai region. The Kodo ("old ways") are a key part of the region's UNESCO designation, and have been in use for over 1000 years. They are the only pilgrimage routes besides the Camino de Santiago to be designated a world heritage site.
One of the three Kumano shrines.
The Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine is one of the three Kumano Grand Shrines. This shrine is one of the most popular shrines in all of Kumano and also is the location of one of the tallest waterfall in all of Japan. This sacred shrine also is the location to a Buddhist temple.
One of the tallest waterfalls in Japan.
Located along with the Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine in the Kumano region is the famous Nachi Falls. This waterfall is one of the tallest waterfalls in Japan, but it is the tallest straight drop waterfall in all of Japan. This beautiful water fall blends in nicely with the Kumano Nachi Grand Shrine and is one of the most popular destination in the Kumano region.
The Ise Shima region of Japan refers to the area near Ise-Shima National Park, which include cities like Ise and Toba, it is usually called Ise Shima by most of Japanese citizens. The most popular destination and attraction is the famous Ise Grand Shrine, which is known as Japan’s most sacred and holiest shrine. This location also hosts a number of different theme parks and beautiful natural scenery.
Ise Grand Shrine is an important Shinto shrine in Ise, Japan, and one of the holiest shrines in the Shinto religion. The Geku is the Outer Shrine and the Naiku is the Inner Shrine.
The Ise Jingu Grand Shrine is one of the holiest locations in the Shinto religion. A shrine to the sun goddess Amaterasu, Ise has been associated with the imperial family (who claim descent from the sun goddess) since its initial construction. It even supposedly contains an element of the imperial regalia - one of the three crown treasures of Japan: the Sacred Mirror. Ise Grand Shrine's style of architecture is wholly Japanese, free of influence from the mainland, as it predates the introduction of Buddhism to Japan. The overall shrine complex contains two major shrine buildings - the Geku and the Naiku. The Geku is the outer shrine, dedicated to Toyouke Omikami, the Shinto kami (deity) of housing, clothing, and food. The Naiku is the Inner Shrine, and enshrines Amaterasu herself. In accordance with Shinto beliefs, the Geku and Naiku buildings (and the bridge leading up to them) are torn down and rebuilt afresh every 20 years out of locally- sourced cypress wood, which is believed to maintain a harmony with the land as well as preserve the knowledge of ancient construction techniques.
Okage Yokocho is a traditional commercial district in Ise, Japan, located between the outer and inner shrines of the Ise Grand Shrine.
Located within the Ise Grand Shrine complex, between the Geku (outer shrine) and the Naiku (inner shrine), is a traditional shopping complex called Oharaimachi. Since the Ise Grand Shrine has been a place of traditional Shinto pilgrimage for thousands of years, Oharaimachi has some truly ancient establishments that have served the visiting pilgrims for many generations. Halfway through Oharaimachi is the Okage Yokocho street, which contains various shops and restaurants. The architecture along the narrow street is a mixture of old-fashioned Edo period and slightly newer Meiji period buildings, so visitors really get a sense of how long the district has been a fixture of the community. Travelers can stop outside shops to try local dishes - akafuku (red happiness), which is a sweet mochi dumpling made with red bean paste, and Ise Udon, a thick noodle soup. Of course, there are shops selling Ise shrine- themed souvenirs as well.
Visitors can learn about pearls, how pearls are cultivated, and about Mikimoto Kokichi.
One of the most popular museums located in the Ise Shima area is the Mikimoto Pearl Island. In this museum, visitors can learn about pearls, how pearls are cultivated, and about Mikimoto Kokichi (famous person that first cultivated pearls). Visitors are able to explore the museum and learn much about Mikimoto, and visit the shops to purchase a variety of pearl jewelry. There are also hourly performances by the female pearl divers for guests to enjoy.
Kansai (Day 1)
Western Style Accommodation
Located within the Kansai Airport's Aeroplaza a short walk from both passenger terminal and train station, the Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport combines superb convenience with world-class facilities and the famed hospitality of Nikko Hotels International. With its seafront setting and harmonious design, this is a hotel with the ambience of a resort-yet with direct access to Osaka and the entire Kansai region. The local area also offers a number of attractions, including Rinku Park, Rinku Premium Outlets and Nakami Shrine.
Osaka (Day 1)
Western Style Accommodation
Located in the Umeda city centre, Hotel Elsereine Osaka features stylish accommodation and plenty fresh flowers. This completely non-smoking hotel offers 3 dining options, and comes with a concert hall with a grand piano and a meeting space. JR Osaka Train Station is a 10-minute walk, and the JR Kita-shinchi Train Station is a 5- minute walk away. Universal Studios Japan is a 25-minute train ride away, and Osaka Castle is a 30-minute train ride away from Osaka Hotel Elsereine. Umeda Station is a 10-minute walk away from the property.
Hiroshima (Day 2 & Day 3)
Western Style Accommodation
Grand Prince Hotel Hiroshima is located beside Motoujina Park and commands the picturesque islands dotted in the Seto Inland Sea. With magnificent views of the Hiroshima Port and Miyajima Island, the hotel is a dramatic prism structure tower of 23 floors. The hotel's private pier is a great starting point to enjoy leisure activities along the marina or to take a cruise to the nearby islands.
Takamatsu (Day 4)
Western Style Accommodation
JR Hotel Clement Takamatsu is the suitable hotel in scale and grade as the gate in city Takamatsu, Shikoku's central city. It is the real city hotel that is regarded as the symbol of Takamatsu. The guestrooms command a splendid view of Seto Inland Sea and Takamatsu City. It will meet the needs of new age, internationalization and information-oriented society.
Koyasan (Day 5)
Temple Lodging
Sekishoin is located at the entrance of Okunoin, the inner sanctuary, and is very convenient for the visit to the temple. The garden is about 5,000 square meters and is the circuit style. Guest rooms are modern building of the Buddhist temple style (three stories built in 1989) and there is an elevator which is only one in the mountain. Facilities of the rooms are the same as standard Japanese hotel and can feel the calm atmosphere and the heartfelt hospitality.
Katsuura Onsen (Day 6)
Japanese Style Accommodation
Hotel Nakanoshima is on the island and all rooms are facing to the ocean. It is the only hot spring hotel on the island in Japan. The whole island is the green botanical garden and enjoy strolling the promenade to the top of island where overlooking the Pacific Ocean. Please relax watching the view from the open-air bath whilst listening to the crashing waves.
Toba (Day 7)
Japanese Style Accommodation
Toba Grand Hotel is the Japanese lavish and stylish Ryokan in its modern architecture. On the second floor, there is an open-air natural hot spring bath, and on the 5th floor there is is the panoramic lobby over view the Toba Bay. The facility is comfortable and relaxing for enjoying resort life
Kansai (Day 8)
Western Style Accommodation
Located within the Kansai Airport's Aeroplaza a short walk from both passenger terminal and train station, the Hotel Nikko Kansai Airport combines superb convenience with world-class facilities and the famed hospitality of Nikko Hotels International. With its seafront setting and harmonious design, this is a hotel with the ambience of a resort-yet with direct access to Osaka and the entire Kansai region. The local area also offers a number of attractions, including Rinku Park, Rinku Premium Outlets and Nakami Shrine.
Osaka (Day 8)
Western Style Accommodation
Located in the Umeda city centre, Hotel Elsereine Osaka features stylish accommodation and plenty fresh flowers. This completely non-smoking hotel offers 3 dining options, and comes with a concert hall with a grand piano and a meeting space. JR Osaka Train Station is a 10-minute walk, and the JR Kita-shinchi Train Station is a 5- minute walk away. Universal Studios Japan is a 25-minute train ride away, and Osaka Castle is a 30-minute train ride away from Osaka Hotel Elsereine. Umeda Station is a 10-minute walk away from the property.
PLEASE NOTE: These are the hotels All Japan Tours generally uses on the touring styles and regions shown. There is no guarantee that you will stay in the lodgings listed on the website. We encourage you to check your travel documentation for confirmation of the exact accommodation you will be staying in.
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Destinations
Himeji / Kurashiki / Hiroshima / Shimanami Kaido / Takamatsu / Naruto / Koyasan / Kumano / Ise Shima
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