Arrive in Kyoto. Steeped in history, Kyoto is a city that seems to effortlessly exude timeless charm. With iconic temples, traditional tea houses, talented craftspeople, and picturesque gardens, Kyoto offers a glimpse into Japan’s rich heritage. With so much to see and do here, make sure you discuss your specific interests with your travel designer so your time here can be carefully curated.

Start your day at Fushimi Inari. Fushimi Inari, a shrine dedicated to the Shinto god of rice and prosperity, is renowned for its thousands of iconic vermilion torii gates that form a mesmerizing pathway leading through the wooded forest of the sacred Mount Inari. Pass by smaller shrines, lakes, and fox statues as you ascend to the top of the mountain. Descend by way of a different path, arriving at Tofukuji Temple, one of the principal Zen temples in Kyoto.

In the afternoon, a tea master will guide you through a traditional tea ceremony. Learn about this ancient artform and its pertaining rituals.

Set out for Arashiyama, a serene area of Kyoto renowned for its natural beauty. Begin your tour by wandering through an enchanting bamboo forest before arriving at the tranquil Tenryu-Ji Temple. Tenryu-Ji is considered one of the five great temples of Kyoto. Your guide will walk you through the grounds and explain its Zen Buddhist philosophy. Afterwards, sit down to a vegetarian Buddhist-influenced shojin-ryoji lunch.

After lunch, tour the 17th century Nijo Castle before taking a stroll through the Gion district. Gion is known for its narrow streets lined with traditional wooden homes, dangling paper lanterns, and the occasional geisha sighting as they make their way to their next appointment.

Journey to the Kiso Valley and the start of the Nakasendo Trail. The trail was once the only route between these Tokyo and Kyoto, so as you hike, you’ll follow in the steps of samurai and emperors. The hike begins in the post Juku town of Magome, and journeys through the forest along ancient cobblestoned paths, ascending to Magome Pass. Remember to turn back for breathtaking mountain views before reaching the charming Tateba tea house with its weeping cherry tree.

After conquering the Magome-toge Pass, enjoy a downhill section all the way to Tsumago. Lush forests provide cool shade, bridges carry you over gurgling creeks, and the serene Odaki-Medaki waterfalls offer a moment of tranquility.

Arrive in Tsumago. Tsumago-juku is one of the best-preserved post towns in Japan, and is filled with wooden lattice houses, shops, museums, and ryokan inns, transporting you back to the age of samurai.

Distance: 9km, 3-4hrs

The longest day on the trail offers scenic and varied terrain. From Tsumago, the trail travels through small valleys and past forests of bamboo and Japanese cedar before arriving at the picturesque town of Nagiso. Built in the 1920s, the wooden Momosuke bridge offers a glimpse into history, while local shops provide the perfect opportunity to stock up on snacks and drinks for the journey ahead.

The next part of the trail offers a gentle ascent as you traverse forests and farmland. You might even find yourself passing through the backyards of friendly locals tending to their crops – a unique glimpse into everyday life in the Japanese countryside.

Finally, arrive at Nenoue Pass and enjoy a rewarding downhill stretch until you reach the charming town of Nojiri. From here, a quick 30-minute train ride whisks you away to Kiso-Fukushima, a historic post town that once flourished as a political and economic center in the Kiso Valley. Tonight, enjoy kaiseki-style cuisine and hot spring baths.

Distance: 18km, 6 hrs