Discover Japan's Fall Foliage with Kumano Kodo Tour by Odynovo

14 daysDuration

Private TourPrivate experience, no group joining

20 peopleMaximum group size

2 peopleMinimum to book

1 - 99 yearsAge range for participants

EnglishGuide language

Moderate

Involves sustained activity requiring a reasonable level of fitness and endurance.

Starts

Tokyo, Japan

Ends

Osaka, Japan

Highlights

Discover the colorful autumn of Japan

Walk in the Sagano Bamboo Forest and feel the tranquil atmosphere

Explore the Eastern Pilgrimage Route and hike the Kumano Kodo

Tast Kobe beef and experience the charm of Japanese cuisine

Itinerary

Experience Japan’s autumn transformation on a 14-day journey through vibrant cities, sacred mountains, and ancient pilgrimage trails. Witness Tokyo’s Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue aglow in gold, gaze at the Chureito Pagoda framed by fiery maple leaves, and stroll Kyoto’s serene temples awash in autumn color. The highlight: trekking the historic Kumano Kodo, where mountain trails wind through centuries-old shrines and timeless forests, offering a deep cultural and spiritual connection. This moderate-paced tour is expertly designed for experienced travelers seeking both natural splendor and meaningful encounters with Japan’s traditions. The unique selling point? A seamless blend of world-famous fall foliage, urban culture, and immersive pilgrimage hiking—a seasonal spectacle that’s both visually stunning and profoundly moving.

day 1 - Arrive in Tokyo

After landing at Tokyo Airport, your driver will greet you warmly at the airport, and take you to the hotel for check-in, the rest of the time you can relax.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Tokyo 4 Star Hotel, Double/Twin Room or similar

day 2 - Visit the Meiji Shrine & Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden

Commence your day at the serene Meiji Shrine, then wander through Jingu Gaien Ginkgo Avenue, where the golden leaves paint the sky with autumn's first strokes. Delve deeper into the Meiji Jingu Inner Garden and Museum, appreciating the architectural ingenuity of Kengo Kuma.Next, step into the vibrant world of Shinjuku Gyoen National Garden's chrysanthemum exhibition, where a spectrum of autumn colors unfolds amidst the garden's foliage. The chrysanthemums burst into bloom in a riot of colors and forms, presenting a visual delight that is uniquely autumnal.

In the final weeks of October and the early days of November, the Tokyo Ramen Show at Komazawa Olympic Park offers a taste of Japan's regional ramen, adding a layer of gastronomic pleasure to your Tokyo autumn adventure.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Tokyo 4-Star Hotel, Double/Twin Room

Meals:Breakfast

day 3 - Explore the Sensoji Temple & Tsukiji Outer Market

Start your day at the Sensoji Temple, where you will be greeted by the sight of towering red lanterns. As you pass through the Kaminarimon Gate, you'll find yourself in the lively Nakamise-dori Street, lined with stalls offering a variety of tempting treats to sample. Next make your way to the Tsukiji Outer Market, where the pulse of local life is palpable. Here, you can experience the art of sushi-making. The highlight the day is a visit to Rikugien Garden, where the fall season paints the foliage in a breathtaking display of yellows, oranges, and reds. The maple leaves create a stunning contrast against the garden's stone lanterns, ponds, and ancient stones, crafting an idyllic autumn scene.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Tokyo 4-Star Hotel, Double/Twin Room

Meals:Breakfast, Lunch

day 4 - Tokyo to Hakone

Set out on a scenic drive, approximately 2.5 hours, to the picturesque Kawaguchiko region. Upon arrival at Oshino Hakkai, you will witness a vibrant underwater world, with colorful fish gliding through the crystal-clear emerald waters, and weaving around the undulating aquatic plants that carpet the pond floor. From there, make your way to Arakura Fuji Sengen Shrine, where ascending nearly 400 steps rewards you with a breathtaking vista of the Chureito Pagoda, its red and green hues contrasting sharply with the expansive blue sky. Conclude your day with a tranquil boat ride on the serene waters of Lake Kawaguchi, or opt for a panoramic cable car ride for a bird's-eye view of the majestic Mount Fuji. If the weather is kind, you may be treated to the awe-inspiring sight of Mount Fuji's reflection mirrored on the lake's surface.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Ryokan Aura Tachibana or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 5 - Hakone to Kyoto

Begin your day with an independent foray into Hakone, where you can choose to cruise on Lake Ashi aboard a sightseeing boat, soaking in the magnificent scenery. Alternatively, a cable car ride to Owakudani offers a chance to savor the intriguing taste of the local black eggs. If you're an aficionado of the EVA series or traveling with young anime fans, a stop at the EVA-themed store near Hakone Yumoto Station will be a highlight, offering a treasure trove of themed merchandise. After the tour, you need to take the bullet train to Kyoto.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 6 - Discover Nijo Castle, Nishikidori Market& Kiyomizu-dera

Your day's exploration commences at the Nijo Castle, where you will be captivated by the intricate chrysanthemum motifs adorning the gates and the exquisitely detailed crane carvings. The castle's opulent palace, with its grandeur, reflects the profound influence of the Tang Dynasty's architectural style from ancient China. At midday, make your way to the vibrant Nishikidori Market, affectionately dubbed "Kyoto's Kitchen." Immerse yourself in the lively crowd, savor a medley of local snacks, and soak up the quintessential Japanese market ambiance.

The last stop is Kiyomizu Temple. Set against the crisp blue sky, the maple leaves ignite the scene with their fiery red hues, offering a stunning autumnal backdrop to the temple's wooden stage. Be sure to seize the moment and immortalize the seasonal splendor of Kyoto through your camera lens.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 7 - Travel from Kyoto to Arashiyama and back to Kyoto

Begin your journey at Jojakko-Ji Temple, a secluded gem where you will see the red of maple, the verdant green of pines, and the golden hues of ginkgo trees intermingle, creating a tapestry of autumn's unique beauty. Next, wander through the Sagano Bamboo Grove, where the sky-high stalks form a canopy of deep green, enveloping you in the tranquil rustling of the bamboo. Continue to the serene temple gardens of Tenryuji, where ponds, red foliage, and peculiar rock formations, all set against a backdrop of Arashiyama's vibrant colors, compose a living landscape painting imbued with a tranquil Zen essence. Conclude your day with a leisurely cruise on a traditional boat, offering a view of the Togetsukyo Bridge and the surrounding mountains adorned with maple leaves, a harmonious blend of nature's art.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Kyoto Tokyu Hotel or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 8 - Journey from Kyoto to Osaka and then Tanabe

After breakfast at the hotel, follow the guide catch a train to Kii Tanabe Station, then head to the Tanabe Tourist Information Center as your next stop. From there, board a local bus to Takijiri, a journey of approximately 40 minutes, and prepare for a scenic hike of two to three hours to Takahara, a quaint village perched on a ridge shrouded in mist, often referred to as the "village in the mist."

Traverse the verdant path, stepping on moss-covered stone steps that have borne the footsteps of pilgrims for centuries. Along the way, historical markers and stone monuments stand as silent witnesses to the past. You will encounter various hot springs and waterfalls, and the profound stillness of the mountains allows you to connect with the sacred rituals that have been performed here for ages. Your day's pilgrimage concludes at the Takahara Kumano-jinja Shrine, a place where the spiritual and natural worlds harmoniously meet.

Accommodation: Guest house

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

day 9 - Explore Tanabe

Today, you will go on a 13-kilometer hike to Tsugizakura-Oji, between 6 to 8 hours to complete, primarily involving walking along the trail. As you make your way, you'll be treated to panoramic views of the valley that will take your breath away. You'll have the chance to explore the sacred grounds of Chikatsuyu and Tsugizakura-oji shrines. The latter, encircled by majestic cedar trees, offers an experience that connects you with the profound energy of the natural world and its spiritual significance.

Accommodation: Homestay

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

day 10 - Visit Kumano Kodo in Tanabe

Set forth on a hiking journey from Tsugizakura-oji to the Kumano Hongu Taisha, with three distinct routes at your disposal, ranging from a brisk 2-hour hike to a more leisurely 11-hour trek. Upon reaching the final stone steps and catching your first glimpse of the awe-inspiring shrine, your weariness will instantly dissipate. The shrine's wooden facade, with its blend of natural grain and understated elegance, will leave a lasting impression.

Following your visit to the shrine, make your way to the Kumano Hongu Heritage Center to delve deeper into the region's rich history and culture. Your day's finale awaits at Osaihara, nestled within the verdant beauty of Wakayama. If you're visiting in autumn, you'll be treated to the stunning sight of the colossal torii gates mirrored in a sea of red and gold foliage. To wrap up your day, a short 10-minute bus ride on local transport from Hongu will take you to the serene Yunomine Onsen.

Accommodation:Yunomine Onsen or similar Other

Meals:Breakfast, Dinner

day 11 - Travel from Tanabe to Osaka

Today marks the conclusion of your spiritual journey. You will board a local bus from Yunomine Onsen, heading towards Tanabe-Kii, a scenic ride that will take approximately 100 minutes. From there, you'll connect with a train that will carry you onward to your next exciting destination.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 12 - Venture from Osaka to Kobe

After breakfast, the driver will wait for you at the hotel and set off on a two-hour journey to the Unesco World Heritage site, Himeji Castle. The castle's pristine white plaster walls resemble elegant white herons in flight. Should you feel up to the challenge, you can ascend and descend its stairs to uncover its intricate interior.

Following your castle visit, continue to Kobe, where you can indulge in the famed Kobe beef if you desire. For a panoramic experience, consider taking a ride on the aerial cable car, offering a 360-degree view of Kobe City. During your ascent, you will see the mountains adorned with autumn's red leaves. If botany piques your interest, a visit to the herb garden will introduce you to an array of aromatic herbs and blossoming flowers. Upon reaching the summit, be sure to savor the sweeping vistas from the observation deck. Conclude your day with a return trip to Osaka, where you can rest for the night.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 13 - Free day in Osaka

Craft your own Osaka adventure today, Immerse yourself in history at Osaka Castle, surrounded by the serene beauty of Nishinomaru Garden. Ascend to the top of Tsutenkaku Tower for a jaw-dropping, panoramic vista of the city. Craving something delicious? Shinseikai beckons with a vibrant food scene guaranteed to tantalize your taste buds. And for the thrill-seekers, the TOWER SLIDER offers a heart-pounding descent from 22 meters above ground.

Accommodation:4 Star Hotel at Osaka Excel Hotel Tokyu or similar

Meals:Breakfast

day 14 - Depart Osaka

Today marks the conclusion of your memorable sojourn in Japan. As you prepare to bid farewell, consider taking the airport express line to effortlessly reach the airport.

Meals:Breakfast

Discover Japan's Fall Foliage with Kumano Kodo

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What's Included

13-night accommodationMeals: 13 breakfasts, 1 lunch and 3 DinnerEntrance fees for the scenic spots as listed in the itineraryBottled water on sightseeing daysEscorted by tour guides on days with toursTrains ticket as listed in the itinerary:Hakone-Kyoto, Kyoto-Arashiyama, Arashiyama-Kyoto, Kyoto-Osaka, Osaka-Tanabe, Tanabe-Osaka, Osaka-Himeji, Himeji-Kobe, Kobe-OsakaPublic transportation costs on the day of the tour

What's Excluded

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Sistema di prenotazione semplice e intuibile. In caso di necessità le istruzioni presenti sul sito sono risultate utili e chiare. Nessun problema riscontrato

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