Japan: Hike, Bike & Kayak

Konnichiwa! Welcome to Japan. Your adventure begins in Tokyo – bursting with contemporary urban culture, this colourful city is home to many museums, world-class shopping strips, neighbourhoods full of restaurants and countless karaoke bars. As this trip spends very little time in Tokyo, it’s recommended that you arrive a few days before your trip begins if you want to experience more of this city. You’ll have a welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight. If you arrive early, you might like to check out the mania of Shibuya Crossing or stroll around the eclectic Harajuku neighbourhood. After the meeting, why not get together with your group for an optional dinner at a local restaurant – your group leader will know the best spots.

Say goodbye to Tokyo this morning and hop on a train towards the Nakasendo Way – a historic network that connected shukuba (post stations) between Tokyo and Kyoto in the Edo period. When you arrive, you’ll head out to walk a section of the Way between Tsumago and Magome. Take a well-maintained and marked trail through forested countryside past traditional houses. Both Tsumago and Magome were towns where weary travellers would rest during their journey along the Nakasendo Way – tonight, you’ll stay in a local guesthouse in town, replicating their experience. Before checking into the guesthouse, visit the Toson Memorial Museum, which is dedicated to the life and works of writer Shimazaki Toson.

You’ll have an early start today as you set out on a short hike along another section of the Nakasendo trail to Nagiso Station. After, take a regional train and then a shinkansen (bullet train) to Furukawa, connecting to a local train bound for Onomichi. Onomichi marks the beginning of the famous Shimanami Kaido cycling track and the town is associated with a great number of Japanese literary figures. There are various temples, pagodas and parks you can explore while you’re here – Temple Way is a popular walking path that takes you past 25 of Onomichi’s historic temples. You could also head to Senkoji Park for a bird’s-eye view of the city and the Inland Sea. If you’re lucky enough to be in Japan in the springtime, cherry blossoms bloom in the parks here! Tonight, why not head into town and grab a ramen dinner in one of the laneway restaurants – these delicious soupy noodles are what Onomichi is known for.

Wake up this morning ready take on a section of the Shimanami Kaido. This cycle path connects six small islands on the Inland Sea between Honshu and Shikoku. Today, you’ll ride across three of the connecting islands, arriving on Ikuchijima around midday. The cycling paths are well established, and you’ll pass by cafes, shrines, small beaches and gorgeous vistas of the dotted islands and tiny fishing villages along the Setouchi Inland Sea. In the afternoon, swap your bike for a kayak and start paddling from the Sunshine Beach area of the island. Later, catch a ferry back to Onomichi Port before a free evening to spend as you wish.

This morning, take a local train and shinkansen to Kyoto. Originally founded as Heian-kyo (translating to ‘tranquillity and peace capital’) in AD794, Kyoto was the capital of Japan for over 1000 years before the emperor and government relocated to Tokyo. Because of this, Kyoto is rich in history, with over 2000 temples, shrines and gardens. After dropping your bags off at the accommodation, head out with your group to Fushimi Inari Shrine – one of the quintessential images of Japan. Famous for its thousands of crimson torii (gates), wind your way through the networks of trails, and be sure to snap a few shots at this iconic spot. Your leader will take you on a hike up the hill, away from most of the crowds, so you can get the best views and most peaceful experience of this spot. Later, visit the historic Gion district, where you might spot a geiko (geisha).

Today, head to Ginkakuji, also known as the Silver Pavilion. Built more than 500 years ago, this structure is surrounded by intricate Japanese landscape architecture and was modelled off the famous Kinkakuji (the Golden Pavilion). From Ginkakuji, you’ll hike up Mt Daimonji-yama – one of the best short hikes in Kyoto. From the top, you’ll get a panoramic view of the city and on a clear day, you can see all the way over to Yoshida-yama Hill. When you’re back in town, the afternoon is free for you to choose your own adventure. Maybe check out Nishiki Market (AKA ‘Kyoto’s Kitchen’), visit Nijo Castle and the Imperial Palace or get lost in the zigzagging lanes of the traditional Ninen-zaka and Sannen-zaka districts. If you prefer a bit of relaxation, rest up in one of the sentos (traditional bathhouses) in the city – a must-do experience in Japan!

Today, it’s time to jump back on two wheels. Pick up your rental bikes and start exploring Kyoto. Cycle along the beautiful Kamo River to Demachiyanagi, stopping at Daitokuji Temple. Learn about Zen Buddhism and find a moment of peace and reflection before hopping back on the saddle and continuing to the Kinkakuji Temple – also known as the Golden Pavilion. Heading back along the Kamo River, finish your cycling adventure and head back to the bike shop. Tonight, you’re free to find the best feed – your leader always has the best recommendations!