Walk Japan - Kumano Kodo Trail

Japan - Trip code WJP Walking and Trekking
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412Kg of CO²e
Average carbon footprint per person
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Carbon Footprint
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Discover Japan on our walking holiday that ticks off the must-sees, explores its beautiful landscapes and takes you off the beaten path, too. See a new side of Tokyo on an urban hike through the sprawling capital before heading into the mountains to uncover relics from the Edo period. Finish up with a four-day hike along the Kumano Kodo, an ancient pilgrimage trail connecting Shinto shrines. Along the way, refuel with authentic Japanese cuisine and unwind in the onsen at a traditional ryokan.

Why we love this trip
  • Nakasendo Way - Hike between historic post towns on a highway once travelled by samurai and itinerant merchants.
  • Kyoto - Explore the temples and tea houses of Japan's historic capital on foot.
  • Traditional accommodation - Experience a Japanese rite of passage, sleeping on a futon and washing in a hot spring bath at a traditional ryokan inn.

  • Included meals

    Breakfast: 11

    Lunch: 4

    Dinner: 5

  • Trip staff

    Explore Tour Leader

  • Transport

    Boat

    Public Bus

    Train

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    Accommodation

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    Walking grade:

    Moderate

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    Group Size:

    Trip maximum 16
    Explore Average 11

Itinerary

Trip information

Climate and country information

Japan

Climate

Japan's climate is mostly temperate, with five distinct seasons. Summer is from June to September with temperatures reaching 30°c, although it can vary from warm to very hot after mid-July with temperatures in the mid-30s. July and August can be very hot and humid. Spring and Autumn are mild throughout Japan. Winter, October to April, is cold with snowfall. The main rainy season is June. Japan can be prone to short, tropical cyclones in August to October. October / November although cooler is a great time to see the Autumn colours. For trips that visit the Snow Monkeys at Jigokudani Onsen, you're very likely to see them all year around, aside from in October/November when there is enough food in the forest to prevent them coming down to the baths. You may still see some at this time but not in the numbers found during the rest of the year.

Time difference to GMT

+9

Plugs

2 Pin Flat

Religion

Buddhism, Christian and Shinto

Language

Japanese

Budgeting and packing

Optional activities

The following excursions and/or activities are usually available and may be arranged locally. Estimated costs are provided below for guidance only, are on a per person basis unless shown otherwise, and may depend on the number of participants. Prices quoted are correct as of the date these tour notes were originally issued but may change at any time due to currency fluctuations. Please note: These activities are booked and paid for locally and do not form part of your Explore holiday contract.


Tokyo:
Water bus from Asakusa to Hamarikyu Gardens - 980JPY
Koishikawa Korakuen Gardens - There are a few wonderful gardens in Tokyo and this is one of them - 300 Yen.
Tokyo Sky Tree - By far and away the tallest structure in Japan (double the height of the tallest building). If it is a clear day the views cannot be beat - 2060 Yen to first observatory (additional 1030 Yen to upper observatory - we recommend only the first).
Shinjuku Gyoen - More of a park than a garden but still a wonderful place to stroll. You will still be able to see many of Tokyo's skyscrapers but at a tranquil distance - 200 Yen

Matsumoto:
Ukiyoe Woodblock Museum - Although it is a bit out of town, this museum is well worth visiting for anyone who enjoys Japanese woodblock prints - 1200 Yen entrance plus either taxi (10 minutes) aproximately 1500 Yen each way or train (infrequent - approximately 5 minutes and 20 minutes walking) 170 Yen each way. Timings may not allow a visit here, depending on previous activities.
Matsumoto City Art Museum - A museum with both traditional and contemporary art. Notable for its Kusama Yayoi collection because she is originally from the city - 410 Yen for permanent exhibition.


Clothing

Bring light and comfortable clothing that can be layered according to the temperature. The weather conditions in the mountains can be changeable, and it can become cool, especially at night, so bring warmer layers. Tops made from wicking materials which keep you drier and warmer are recommended as a base layer, and walking trousers are preferable to trousers of heavier material such as jeans. A waterproof jacket is essential at all times in case of rain and wind.

- Breathable wind and waterproof jacket (you may also wish to bring waterproof trousers)
- T-shirts
- Long sleeved tops
- Sunhat
- Long trousers
- Shorts (if you prefer to walk in them)
- Swimwear
- Midlayer Fleece/pullover
- Socks


Footwear

We always recommend walking boots with ankle support and good grip for walking holidays. The trail on this trip can get muddy and slippery. We suggest that on international flights you either carry your walking boots in your hand luggage or wear them - should your luggage be lost or delayed, your own boots are the one thing that will be irreplaceable. Comfortable trainersandals are recommended for the town/relaxing in the evenings.

Luggage

20kg

Luggage: On tour

One main piece of baggage and a daypack. For logistical reasons your main luggage will be forwarded from Tokyo to Kyoto on day 3, from Kyoto to Tanabe on day 7 and from Tanabe to Osaka on day 10. Your daypack should therefore have sufficient space for your overnight things in Matsumoto, Kii-Katsuura and the first night in Tanabe; as well as being comfortable enough for carrying all your daytime hiking essentials such as a waterbottle, suncream, snacks, rain wear and camera. Please note that you will need to carry this overnight bag with you on days 3, 7, 10 and 11, which includes the relatively short hikes on days 7 and 11. There should be the opportunity to leave any luggage at the hotel in Matsumoto upon arrival on day 3 if needed, please consult with tour leader. A capacity of 30 to 40 litres should be sufficient if you pack light. For your main luggage, a lockable compact suitcase or holdall with wheels is ideal.

Equipment

- Sunglasses
- Sun cream
- Small Torch (with spare batteries and bulb)
- Walking poles (if you usually use them)
- Personal first aid kit - On each walk a first aid kit is carried but you should have your own blister kit, supply of plasters, aspirin and other essentials.
- Insect repellent
- Small waterproof dry bag (for items such as your mobile phone)
- Reusable water bottle (minimum 1 litre) - Get 15% discount on a Water-to-Go bottle www.explore.co.uk/about-us/responsible-travel/water-to-go-discount-with-explore
- Lunch box/Tupperware (for packed lunches)

Please note that it is possible to get a dual pilgrimage certificate at the Kumano Kodo Information Centre if you bring proof that you have completed the El Camino de Santiago in the past.

https://www.tb-kumano.jp/en/kumano-kodo/dual-pilgrim/

Kumano Kodo pilgrim certification information:
There is no way to register before starting the walk
Customers will be provided with a stamp book (goshuincho) at start of the tour
You can get stamps along the way in temples and other places
Your Tour Leader will be able to help find the places to stamp
Upon arrival at our destination (Hongu City) you will be able to get the certificate at the Kumano Hongu Tourist Association.
Discuss with the Tour Leader but it is recommended that you visit the tourist association first to obtain the certificate, as there is a short ceremony (about 15 minutes) at the Kumano Hongu Temple upon presenting the certificate (to avoid having to go back to the association and wasting time)

Tipping

Explore leader
Tipping isn't compulsory, and we work hard to ensure that our leaders all receive a fair wage. You may however, want to recognise a leader that's done a great job or really added to your trip by giving them a tip. We're often asked about the recommended amount. It's a tricky one, and down to personal preference, but we'd recommend between £15 to £20 per person per week as a guideline.

Japan

Food and drink

The costs for meals may vary depending upon location, type of restaurant and number of courses eaten and so the prices given are an average guide. Local restaurants located off the beaten track may be less expensive, whereas an upmarket restaurant located in the centre of a major city may charge more.


Lunch price
£8
Dinner price
£15-20
Beer price
£4
Water price
£1.00 - 2.00
Foreign Exchange
Local currency
Yen.
Recommended Currency For Exchange
It is preferable to take money in Yen or GBP, USD etc.
Where To Exchange
Most major towns - your Tour Leader will advise you on arrival.
ATM Availability
ATMs are widely available. Some ATMs do not accept western bank/credit cards. Your Tour Leader can advise you locally if needed.
Credit Card Acceptance
In major restaurants and stores. Credit cards are not always accepted in smaller shops or restaurants. Ask your leader if needing any help with budgeting or being prepared for when cash is needed.
Transport, Accommodation, Food & Drink

Transport Information

Boat, Public Bus, Train

Accommodation notes

During this tour, we stay in a range of hotels and traditional inns (ryokans). Each one has been chosen with location in mind and is just a short walk from the nearest metro or train stations.

While clean and comfortable, hotel rooms and ensuite bathrooms in Japan are often much smaller than in other destinations. This is due to the pressure on space in high-density urban areas coupled with Japanese expectations about the size of living spaces. It's unlikely that you'll be able to keep your suitcase open at all times, especially when sharing the room. For this reason, and the fact we use a lot of public transport, we recommend packing light. Please see our luggage information for more information.

Most hotels in Japan have self-service laundry facilities with washer driers that dispense detergent and softener, so it's perfectly possible to travel light and clean your clothes as you go.

Along the Kumano Kodo on nights 7, 8 and 9, we'll stay in a ryokan - a traditional Japanese inn. We'll sleep on futon beds that are rolled out each night onto the tatami-mat flooring. The rooms are simply decorated with a low table to sit around, a scroll or picture in an alcove and a Japanese tea set. Shoes are taken off in the entranceway to the room. All of the rooms here have an en-suite toilet and wash basin. In true Japanese style, bathing is in traditional same-sex communal baths or onsen that are used after washing yourself by handheld shower in the same communal area. There are also two private baths that can be used if available but cannot be pre-booked. On some departures we stay in a different or larger ryokan, private baths may not be available and the bedrooms may be with western beds and not futons.

Food and drink

Food in Japan is of paramount importance culturally and is often a highlight for those visitors interested in different cuisines. Options for vegetarians are limited as fish and seafood plays an important part in local cuisine and many vegetable dishes are cooked in fish broth. The included meals do not cover alcoholic or soft drinks. For people with severe allergies please note that it will be impossible to cater without risk of cross contamination, depending on the specific allergy, as the meal is often prepared by one chef in a limited kitchen for all guests staying at the guesthouse. You should always advise us of any allergies but in this case please enquire at time of booking or prior to travel to see what will be possible. For others with allergies and preferences in their diet please note that we will try to accommodate but, while the meal will be plentiful, you may be offered slightly less choice than others.

Japan

Food and drink

Can you drink the water? 
It is generally possible to drink the local tap water, therefore to reduce the need for single-use plastic bottles we recommend you bring a refillable water bottle with you. Your leader will advise you on refill points each day. 

Essential Information

Government Travel Safety Advice

We strongly recommend that you check your government's travel advisory for up-to-date information and advice about your destination's safety and security, entry requirements, health, local laws and customs. Relevant government website links for UK, US, Canadian, Australian and New Zealand citizens are available on our Travel Safety page.

If you'd like some inital information on country-specific entry requirements, such as visas or any health declaration forms, please refer to our Entry Requirements page.  The services and information on this page are provided by a third party, and so we will still recommend that you cross check this against your government website for the latest advice.
 

Under 18 immigration guidance

Please note that some countries require proof of parental consent when travelling overseas with under 18s. Please check requirements with the relevant embassy or consular office well in advance of travel if this applies to your party.

Price Guarantee

Once your booking has been confirmed we guarantee the price will not increase, whatever the circumstances. However, please note that if you voluntarily make any changes to your booking including changing your trip or departure date, any additional costs or charges incurred will not be covered. Before booking please ensure you have read our important tour pricing information.Booking Conditions
 

Visa and Passport Information

British passport holders can obtain a visa on arrival for tourism purposes for stays of up to 90 days.

All visa related issues for other nationalities should be confirmed with the relevant Embassy prior to departure.

Although not required, by registering on the visit Japan Web website, travellers are able fill out the Disembarkation Form in advance. By filling out this form online you will recieve a QR code which can then be shown during entry procedures into Japan. This will help you proceed through customs and control quicker. As this step is not required, travellers can instead fill out physical paper forms upon arrival as well.

More information can be found here: https://www.vjw.digital.go.jp/main/#/vjwplo001 \ul \ulnone


If you do require assistance in obtaining a visa then you may be able to apply through Explore's recommended visa service in the UK, Travcour. See www.travcour.com to download the relevant visa application for your trip, if applicable (UK citizens only), along with details of how to apply for your visa through Travcour. The Team at Travcour will be happy to answer specific questions relating to visa applications, please call them directly on 0208 5431846.

It is your responsibility to ensure that you are in possession of a full passport, with the correct validity for your chosen destination.
 

Booking conditions

Before booking your Explore trip, please ensure that you read both our Essential Information and Booking Conditions.
 

Minimum age restrictions

For our group tours, the minimum age is 16. The minimum age on Family trips varies between 7 and 11 - please check the 'Family information' section of the trip page for more information. 


Your safety and enjoyment on tour

We want everyone to have a safe and enjoyable holiday, so we ask you to confirm when booking this trip that you are fit and able to fully participate in all elements of the itinerary. If you have any concerns about your fitness or ability to complete any of the activities, please get in touch with our Customer Relations team at cr@explore.co.uk as soon as possible. Our tour leaders are trained and experienced in managing differing abilities within a group, but if they have concerns about a group member’s ability to safely participate in any element of the itinerary or believe someone’s presence could affect the safety or enjoyment of the holiday for others, in accordance with our Booking Conditions our tour leaders have the authority to ask an individual to miss an activity or activities. This decision would never be taken lightly, but on the rare occasions our tour leaders ask someone to sit out part of the tour, refunds will not be offered and individuals may be liable for additional costs incurred. 
 

Your Tour Leader

All tours aside from extensions, Galapagos cruises and polar expeditions will be led by one of our experienced Tour Leaders. We believe that our Tour Leaders are the key to the success of our tours; they are local experts who are bursting with first-hand knowledge which they love to share, and their unique insights will bring the destination to life. Your Tour Leader will be on hand throughout your tour to make sure arrangements run smoothly, to organise all the local logistics and to keep you safe. Your Tour Leader should be your first point of contact if you encounter any difficulties or disappointments in country – please raise any concerns, however small, with your Tour Leader as they are best placed to assist you.

Transfers

Find out more about Trip Transfer Terms and Conditions before you book.

Booking a land only package with Explore

Customers who have chosen to book on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements of our tour, please ensure that you have checked your tour specific ‘Joining Instructions’ prior to booking your own travel arrangements. Your joining instructions can be found below in the dates and prices information. 

You may also be eligible for the Free Explore Transfer.


Joining Tour Abroad

Customers booked on the ‘Land Only’ arrangements will receive a Free Transfer, provided you arrive and depart on the tour only itinerary start and end dates. The complimentary transfers will be arranged from the Explore designated airport or train station to your trips joining point, and then back from the ending point to the designated airport or train station. Generally the airport or station that Explore have selected will be the one that is closest to the town or city where the trip starts, or the one nearest to the joining point. It will be either an airport or train station but not both.

The exception to this rule is customers who are booked on a tour where the joining and ending point is at the designated airport or train station.  

Free transfers are not available for Polar customers.

If you are not eligible for the Free Transfer then you will need to make your own way through to the joining and ending point. On a majority of our tours Explore will be able to provide a private transfer at an additional cost. Please ask for a quote at the time of booking.  

For more information regarding the Explore Free Transfer click here

Insurance

It is a condition of booking with Explore that you have adequate valid travel insurance. It is your responsibility to arrange appropriate travel insurance and ensure you have read and understood the full terms and conditions of your travel insurance policy to ensure that you are covered for all activities you intend to undertake whilst on the tour, including all optional activities. Your Insurance Policy must fully cover you for medical expenses and emergency repatriation to your home country. Please ensure your policy includes medical emergency helicopter evacuation in the event of illness or injury and covers the entire duration of your holiday. If you are trekking at altitude please ensure that there is no upper altitude limit which may limit or exclude cover for your trip. The cost of many of our Polar Voyages will exceed the capped amount covered by standard insurance premiums and you will be required to pay an additional premium to cover the full value of your trip. Please ensure that you are covered for the full amount of your holiday cost, as insufficient cover could invalidate a claim under the policy. Medical and repatriation insurance cover is not mandatory for UK residents who are travelling on trips within the United Kingdom.
Read more information about what travel insurance is required.

Flight information

Explore can arrange your flights for you, to make joining and leaving our trips easy. Read more about them here.


Flight Information

You are able to book this tour on a 'land only' basis or as a ‘flight inclusive’ package. Your flight inclusive package will be fully protected by the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) ATOL protection scheme.

 

Booking a flight inclusive package with Explore

We have a good selection of flights not only from London but from many regional airports around the UK allowing us to compare fares between scheduled carriers as well as low cost and charter airlines. Our dedicated flights team will match the best flight options to your arrival and departure airport.

On our website we display the price of the tour only. Please call us or select the flight option during the online checkout to receive a quote for a flight inclusive package. To avoid paying supplements or to secure your preferred flight option, we recommend booking as early as possible, especially for peak travel dates.

Japan

Vaccinations

Nothing compulsory. We recommend protection against typhoid, tetanus, infectious hepatitis and polio. The use or possession of Vicks inhalers and some other common prescription and over-the-counter medicines (e.g. for allergies and sinus problems or even certain mild painkillers, such as those containing certain levels of codeine) are banned under Japan's strictly enforced anti-stimulant drugs law. Customs officials may not be sympathetic if you claim ignorance about these medicines. If in any doubt about customs procedures for such items, you should check with the nearest Japanese Embassy before visiting Japan. Please check the latest requirements with your travel clinic or doctor prior to departure. The above is not an exhaustive list. Information regarding vaccinations and travel health advice can be found by on the NaTHNaC website and from your local healthcare provider. Visa and vaccination requirements are subject to change and should be confirmed by you before travelling.

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Airport Transfers
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