Sacred Pathways: A 14-Day Spiritual Journey Across Japan
Trace the steps of monks, pilgrims, and poets on this rare journey through Japan’s spiritual heartlands.
From private meditation in Tokyo to centuries-old mountain trails in Wakayama, this 14-day itinerary blends sacred spaces with reflective design-led stays.
Itinerary Highlights
Higashi Chaya District, Kanazawa — Wander Kanazawa’s geisha quarter where cobblestone alleys and teahouses preserve the grace of a bygone era. Visit gold leaf ateliers, sample matcha in century-old cafés, and witness evening lantern light casting shadows on latticed façades.
Magome Juku, Gifu — Once a vital post town along the Nakasendo Trail, Magome is now a peaceful mountain village lined with timber buildings and surrounded by soft hills. It’s the perfect place to reflect on Japan’s past and follow in the footsteps of samurai and poets.
Kumano Kodo, Wakayama — A UNESCO-listed network of sacred trails, the Kumano Kodo leads pilgrims through moss-covered forests, hot spring villages, and ancient shrines. Walk beneath Japan’s tallest torii gate, pass stone jizō statues, and arrive at Nachi Falls.
Day 1–5 – Tokyo
Start your pilgrimage in the capital, where traditional rituals meet modern design. From hidden neighbourhood temples to forested shrines and ancient musical forms, Tokyo offers a grounded yet invigorating beginning.
Highlights
Yanaka — This slow-paced district of Tokyo is dotted with incense shops, wooden temples, and stone-paved alleys. A remnant of pre-war Tokyo, it's ideal for quiet walks and contemplative pauses.
Meiji Shrine — Enter through towering torii gates into a forest sanctuary home to one of Japan’s most iconic Shinto sites. Despite being centrally located, the shrine's grounds hum with silence and spiritual presence.
Taiko Drumming Workshop — Discover the energy and focus behind this ancient musical tradition in a private session that connects rhythm, discipline, and emotion.
Experience
Private Zazen Meditation Session — Step inside a peaceful Zen temple for a one-on-one meditation practice guided by a monk. Learn breathing techniques, posture, and the mindset behind this ancient practice.
Getting Around
Tokyo’s vast train network makes it easy to reach temples, neighbourhoods, and key districts. Use prepaid IC cards (Suica or Pasmo) for subway, JR lines, and buses. Private transfers for experiences are pre-arranged.
Where to Stay
Hoshinoya Tokyo — A luxury ryokan in the heart of the city where each floor functions as a private retreat. Expect ochanoma lounges, attentive hosts, and refined Japanese hospitality just steps from the Imperial Palace.
For more on Tokyo’s diverse attractions, head to my 50 Things to Do in Tokyo guide.
Day 5–7 – Magome-juku
Leave the capital behind and head into the mountains of Gifu. The historic Nakasendo Trail winds through Magome, a scenic post town where Japan's Edo past is quietly preserved.
Highlights
Magome-Juku Village Walk — Explore timbered streets and hillside teahouses with your local guide, discovering how trade, storytelling, and craftsmanship shaped this historic route.
Nakasendo Trail Hike — Walk the preserved portion between Magome and Tsumago, with waypoints including mossy shrines, hand-carved wooden signage, and forested passes.
Wakihonjin Museum — Visit a former Edo-period inn, once reserved for samurai and government officials, now home to historical artefacts and route narratives.
Getting Around
Private transfer from Tokyo to Magome-juku. Most exploration is done on foot with your local guide; the trail terrain is moderate and well-marked.
Where to Stay
Local Ryokan in Magome — Stay in a traditional inn where tatami mats, mountain air, and seasonal meals create a deeply grounding experience.
Discover Japan like never before with our curated travel guidebook, Views from Japan.
Day 7–9 – Kanazawa
Arrive in Kanazawa via bullet train. Known for its crafts and cultural preservation, the city balances beauty, depth, and heritage.
Highlights
Higashi Chaya — Stroll this historic geisha district where narrow lanes, shoji screens, and gold leaf workshops reveal a refined past.
Kenroku-en Garden — Begin your day here at first light. The morning mist, gentle ponds, and sculpted pine trees offer a moment of natural harmony.
Sake Brewery Visit — Step into a local brewery for a private tasting with a toji (master brewer), learning how patience and climate shape the perfect brew.
Experience
Private Geisha Dinner — Spend an evening dining and conversing with a practising geigi in an intimate teahouse setting. Expect subtle performance, seasonal cuisine, and meaningful dialogue.
Getting Around
Kanazawa is walkable and compact. A local guide ensures a seamless experience across key cultural spots. Taxis and loop buses are also available for longer distances.
Where to Stay
Korinkyo or similar design ryokan — Located near the heart of Kanazawa’s historic district, this stay blends modern aesthetics with artisanal touches.
Discover more destinations around Kanazawa.
Day 9–12 – Kyoto
Go beyond the well-trodden paths and uncover the spiritual side of Kyoto. From matcha fields to machiya houses, Kyotois a study in stillness and depth.
Highlights
Private Tea Ceremony — Guided by a tea master, you’ll learn the ritual, precision, and mindfulness that define this centuries-old practice.
Wagashi Workshop — Craft seasonal sweets into edible art, learning the symbolism and patience behind traditional Japanese confectionery.
Uji Tea Fields — Explore family-run farms where matcha has been grown for generations, and taste the finest expressions of Kyoto's terroir.
Getting Around
Private car and guide included for excursions. Kyoto’s trains and subways are also simple to navigate using IC cards.
Where to Stay
Aman Kyoto — Tucked into a secluded forest at the foot of a mountain, Aman Kyoto offers stone paths, cedar bathtubs, and impeccable service, ideal for retreat and renewal.
For more on Kyoto’s diverse attractions, head to my 50 Things to Do in Kyoto guide.
Day 12–14 – Wakayama
End your journey along the sacred Kumano Kodo pilgrimage trails in southern Wakayama. With ancient cedar forests and quiet mountain paths, this is spiritual Japan in its rawest form.
Highlights
Nakahechi Route — Hike this historic path guided by a local expert. Shrines, mossy jizō statues, and waterfall crossings await as you walk the route of emperors and monks.
Nachi Falls — One of Japan’s most iconic waterfalls, believed to be a sacred dwelling for mountain deities.
Experience
Private Kumano Kodo Hike — Learn about the spiritual significance of the trails and take part in a slow, meditative hike through forests thick with symbolism and stillness.
Getting Around
Private vehicle and guided hikes arranged throughout the region. Transfers back to the city or airport are included post-stay.
Where to Stay
Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima — Set on its own private island in Katsuura Bay, this retreat offers mineral-rich onsen baths and sea-view suites. Optional arrival by helicopter available for those seeking an unforgettable finale.
Book Kumano Bettei Nakanoshima
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