Apr 9 - Apr 22, 2025
Starting at
8,999
Japan
Walking Western Japan: Mountain Paths and Hidden Temples
Program No. 23311RJ
Through mountain trails, rural farmland and lush forests you’ll discover authentic Japan. With local experts, explore Western Japan on foot to learn about the culture and history.
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14 days
13 nights
33 meals
12B 10L 11D
1
In Transit to Program
In Flight
5
The Kuju Mountains, "Fizzy" Bathing!
Nagayu Onsen
6
Ancient Carvings, Hilltop Citadel
Nagayu Onsen
9
Traditional Life in Rural Japan, Makiodo
Bungo Takada
10
Fuki-ji Temple – A National Treasure
Bungo Takada
12
Kitsuki, Castle Town
Yufuin
13
The Slopes of Mount Yufu
Yufuin
14
Program Concludes
In Flight
At a Glance
With its verdant landscapes and very few tourists, Kyushu — Japan’s westernmost island — is a hidden gem best explored on foot. Gain intimate insight into Japanese culture as you walk picturesque rural trails, understanding the importance of nature in Japanese society. Discover the winding mountain paths with local experts and walk to sublime temples that hide in dense forests. Venture past rice paddies while the hushed sounds of water keep you and your fellow Road Scholars company. Meet farmers along the way who will teach you about their customs and stay with a family as you dive head — or foot — first into the ever-beautiful Japanese way of life.
Activity Level
Outdoor: Spirited
Hiking between 2.5 - 7 miles (throughout the day). Trails can vary from paved roads and paths to uneven rocky terrain, including some large steps. Must handle own luggage on and off transport. Elevation gains of around 500 - 1,000 feet on most days but up to 2,500 feet on a couple of days.
Micro Group
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.
Best of all, you’ll…
- Stop at the Fuko-ji temple, Fudo-Myo deity and Oka-jo castle on a walk toward Taketa.
- Spend the night in the home of a local family in Bungo-takada to immerse yourself in their daily life.
- Learn about and sample local delicacies at traditional accommodations, a sake brewing houses and a tea shop.
Featured Expert
All trip experts
Diane Tincher
Diane Tincher, raised in Virginia, arrived in Tokyo in 1987, feeling instantly illiterate in a culture unlike anything she had imagined. Over the years, her understanding and appreciation of Japan’s long history, rich traditions, and unique customs deepened. When her eight children reached adulthood, she immersed herself in studying Japanese history, culture, and geography, earning certification as a Nationally Licensed Japanese Guide and Interpreter. She enjoys researching lesser-known stories of Japanese history and folklore which she writes about for her website, 'More Than Tokyo.'
Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.
Diane Tincher
View biography
Diane Tincher, raised in Virginia, arrived in Tokyo in 1987, feeling instantly illiterate in a culture unlike anything she had imagined. Over the years, her understanding and appreciation of Japan’s long history, rich traditions, and unique customs deepened. When her eight children reached adulthood, she immersed herself in studying Japanese history, culture, and geography, earning certification as a Nationally Licensed Japanese Guide and Interpreter. She enjoys researching lesser-known stories of Japanese history and folklore which she writes about for her website, 'More Than Tokyo.'
Tetsuo Nakahara
View biography
Tetsuo Nakahara began his career as a dolphin swimming guide in Oahu. A native of Kyushu, Tetsuo studied in Florida and then California. He has trekked to Annapurna in Nepal and surfed in Indonesia and Sri Lanka. He took up scuba diving in Australia, and later worked as a scuba diving guide. He returned to Japan in 2002 and worked as a translator and writer/photographer for the Stars and Stripes. Tetsuo spends his free time either surfing, free diving, hiking, or camping.
Suggested Reading List
(25 books)
Visit the Road Scholar Bookshop
You can find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.
Walking Western Japan: Mountain Paths and Hidden Temples
Program Number: 23311
The Samurai
This historical novel by one of Japan's best-known modern writers is set in the world of the 17th-century
Samurai. A Roman Catholic, Endo explored Christianity and morals in his many novels and stories.
The Book of Tea
A graceful, witty meditation on Japanese aesthetics and culture as reflected through the tea ceremony. A
celebrity and cultural ambassador, Okakura was a curator at Boston's Museum of Fine Arts.
Walking the Kiso Road: A Modern-Day Exploration of Old Japan
William Scott Wilson travels along the ancient Kiso Road, historically used by samurai and warlords and
relatively unchanged today. As he makes his way, Wilson engagingly ruminates on Japanese history,
culture and folklore.
Tokyo, A Biography
In his 500-year history of Tokyo, Mansfield presents the Japanese capital as an "indestructible organism"
that has survived bombs, earthquakes and radiation and continues to thrive. An easy introduction to a
fascinating city.
In Praise of Shadows
This extended essay by the great Japanese novelist, first published in 1933, offers tremendous insight into
traditional Japanese art, architecture and design.
Thousand Cranes
This novella by the great Kawabata may be Japan's best-known literary work, a story of love, grief and
redemption. Kawabata's prose is as economical as the tea ceremony itself and very beautiful.
Japan's Cuisines
This illustrated overview charts the transformation of Japanese cuisine over the ages, revealing the
influences of private and public institutions, exploring the rise of tea and showing how lunch became a
gourmet meal.
The Inland Sea
Richie's masterpiece, more than a travel account, is a beautiful reflection on all things Japanese by one of
its most acute observers.
Hiroshima
This classic book, first published in 1946, has been hailed as the greatest piece of journalism in the 20th
century. Pulitzer Prize-winning writer Hersey puts a human face on the Hiroshima tragedy through
interviews with survivors.
The Art of Setting Stones & Other Writings from the Japanese Garden
In these lyrical essays, Kyoto resident and landscape architect Marc Peter Keane uses eight Japanese
gardens as bases for essays on nature, religion and aesthetics. His rich, meditative excursions find beauty
in garden composition - every element gaining importance and interconnectedness.
Japan Adventure Map
Printed on waterproof and tear-resistant paper, this double-sided map shows all the islands of Japan at a
scale of 1:1,300,000.
The Dog Shogun: The Personality and Policies of Tokugawa Tsunayoshi
Largely focusing on the so-called Dog Shogun, this book also covers the history before and after and argues that his policies are to a large extent responsible for Japan's rapid modernization in the 19th century.
Where the Dead Pause, and the Japanese Say Goodbye
When her American father passes away, Mockett seeks consolation in her mother’s home country of
Japan. She visits a radiation zone, a Buddhist school, temples and festivals in an effort to understand the
Japanese way of grieving, to bury her dead and find healing.
The Little Book of Japan
Veteran Japanophiles Vilhar and Anderson produced this illuminating collection of 44 essays on Japanese
life and culture, which, even in the 21st century remains elusive and poorly understood.
Memoirs of a Geisha, A Novel
The runaway best-selling novel about a geisha in the celebrated Gion district of Kyoto. A major feat of
literary impersonation, the novel is rich in period detail and ceremony.
Learning to Bow, Inside the Heart of Japan
As surprising, helpful and informative as it is funny, this is an insightful account of travels and teaching in
Japan. Feiler presents anecdotes on the rituals, personality traits and cultural peccadilloes of the Japanese.
Super Sushi Ramen Express
Using keen insight and sarcastic wit, Booth describes the cuisine and culture of Japan as he recaps the
nearly three months-long foodie road trip he and his family took through the island nation. A fun journey,
sure to both entertain and inform.
Culture Smart! Japan
A concise, no-nonsense guide to local customs, etiquette and culture, this is a helpful travel tool for
visitors to Japan.
Kyoto, A Cultural History
A rich portrait and guide to the gardens, monasteries, art, history and culture of Kyoto, once Japan's
capital, founded 1,200-years ago.
A Traveller's History of Japan
A lively and concise narrative history of Japan and its transformation from Shinto, Shogun and Samurai
traditions to 20th-century powerhouse.
Lonely Planet Japanese Phrasebook
A handy palm-sized guide to pronunciation, basic grammar and essential vocabulary for the traveler.
The Book of Tokyo: A City in Short Fiction
This anthology of contemporary Japanese short stories was edited with the traveler in mind. The ten pieces
of literature, mystery, science fiction and horror form an imaginary tour of the city of Tokyo.
Eyewitness Guide Japan
Dazzling illustrations, architectural cutaways and color photographs, along with useful local maps, give
this guide to Japan's many attractions a distinct edge.
Bending Adversity, Japan and the Art of Survival
Financial Times Asia editor Pilling captures the dynamism and diversity of Japan after the 2011 tsunami.
He interviews, among many, novelist Haruki Murakami, former prime minister Junichiro Koizumi,
industrialists, bankers, activists and artists, teenagers and octogenarians.
Kaempfer's Japan: Tokugawa Culture Observed
A good account of what it was like to travel in the Tokugawa period.
While we make every effort to ensure the accuracy of our published materials, programs are typically advertised more than a year prior to their start date. As a result, some program activities, schedules, accommodations, personnel, and other logistics occasionally change due to local conditions or circumstances. Should a major change occur, we will make every effort to alert you. For less significant changes, we will update you during orientation. Thank you for your understanding.
Duration
14 days
13 nights
What's Included
33 meals (
12B, 10L, 11D
)
2 expert-led lectures
20 expert-led field trips
2 hands-on experiences
An experienced Group Leader
12 nights of accommodations
Taxes and customary gratuity
Road Scholar Assurance Plan
Day
1
In Transit to Program
Location:
In Flight
Day
2
Arrival Fukuoka, Orientation, Welcome Dinner
Location:
Fukuoka
Meals:
D
Stay:
Oriental Hotel Fukuoka Hakata Station
Activity Note
Hotel check-in available from 3:00 p.m.
Afternoon:
After some time to relax and get settled at the hotel, we’ll meet in the hotel lobby and walk to a nearby restaurant where we have booked a private room for a general program orientation and dinner. Orientation: The Group Leader will greet everyone and lead introductions. We will review the up-to-date program schedule, discuss roles and responsibilities, logistics, safety guidelines, emergency procedures, and answer questions. This small-group walking program will be accompanied by one Group Leader, who will handle logistics and lead most lectures and field trips, unless otherwise specified. Everyone will handle their own luggage for transfers throughout the program. Meals will include water and tea with other beverages will be available for purchase, unless otherwise noted. Periods in the daily schedule designated as “Free time” and “At leisure” offer opportunities to do what you like and make your experience even more meaningful and memorable according to your personal preferences. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions. Program activities, schedules, personnel, and indicated distances or times may change due to local circumstances/conditions. In the event of changes, we will alert you as quickly as possible. Thank you for your understanding.
Dinner:
At a restaurant near the hotel, we’ll have a plated meal, with tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Continue getting to know your fellow Road Scholars, settle in, and get a good night’s rest for the day ahead. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
3
Fukuoka – Japan's Gateway to Asia
Location:
Yabakei
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Kogane Sanso
Activity Note
Walking approximately 3 miles throughout the day. Use of transportation including assorted rail and subway transfers; about 2 hours total; some stairs, flat city streets, elevators/escalators sometimes available. Everyone will handle their own luggage for transfers.
Breakfast:
At the hotel, we’ll enjoy a breakfast buffet with juice, coffee, tea, water.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we’ll set out with our Group Leader to stretch our legs on a morning exploration of this lively city, known as “Japan's gateway to Asia." Our first stop will be Sumiyoshi Shrine, a site of worship for sea travelers bound for ancient China and Korea. It is an appropriate place to consider the relationship between Japan and Asia at large with two millennia of cultural flows between them. We’ll walk onward to Yanagibashi Market where we’ll walk around the market, see the produce, and take in the bustling communal atmosphere. Started in the 1920s, the market is an important center of fresh produce for the locals. Finally, we make a short stop at a small local museum to learn more about the rich history of the Hakata area.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals with tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
After making our way to Hakata Station, we’ll transfer on the Sonic Express train to Nakatsu in Oita Prefecture. From here, we’ll travel an additional short distance by private-hire vehicle to Yabakei where we’ll stay the night in the surroundings of a delightful, onsen thermal hot spring accommodation. Yabakei is known for its picturesque valleys, verdant forests, sparkling streams and, of course, its many hot springs. Upon our arrival, we’ll take some time to learn the vital dos and don’ts of living in traditional Japanese style from our Group Leader. Where do we take off our shoes? Where are the beds? How do we use the baths? The lessons learned here are important, and will be vital throughout the program as we stay at a variety of traditional Japanese accommodation.
Dinner:
At our accommodation, we’ll enjoy the first of a number of formal Japanese plated meals.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
4
Rakkan-Ji, Mountain Temples & Old Roads
Location:
Hita
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Hotel Route Inn Hita Ekimae
Activity Note
Driving about 25 miles; approx. 2 hours total. Walking approx. 3.5 miles total; about 2 hours throughout the day; country lanes, forest trails, mountain paths and some steep steps. Total elevation gain of approx. 250 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
At our inn, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water included.
Morning:
After breakfast we make a short journey by vehicle to Ao-no-domon, a series of tunnels gouged out by hand over thirty years by a penitent monk, in the heart of the Yabakei region. We negotiate the tunnels before following the old footpath to Rakkan-ji, a temple on the side of Mt. Rakkan. From here a spectacular panoramic view opens up over Yabakei. At the top, our Group Leader will provide informative commentary about the area and its history before leading us inside the temple. NOTE: On rainy days Rakkan-ji will be closed due to the slippery nature of the steps leading up to the temple when wet. On these days an alternative itinerary will be provided.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Our afternoon excursion first takes us to Sarutobi Keikoku gorge, a small but very scenic canyon found in bucolic surroundings, followed by a visit to Ontayaki Pottery Village, which has a history dating back to the 18th Century. Afterwards, we transfer to Hita, a town at the geographical heart of Kyushu that once served as the shogun’s most important stronghold on the island. Upon arrival, we’ll explore the old town and learn about its strategic importance. Checking into our hotel, we’ll relax in the local onsen hot spring baths before venturing out for dinner at a nearby restaurant.
Dinner:
At a local restaurant, we’ll settle in for a delicious family-style meal, with tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
5
The Kuju Mountains, "Fizzy" Bathing!
Location:
Nagayu Onsen
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Daimaru Ryokan
Activity Note
Driving approx. 50 miles; about 2 hours total, with stops. Walking approx. 7.5 miles total; about 6 hours; mostly gentle ascent on forest and grassland trails. Total elevation gain of about 1,100 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After breakfast we transfer to Yume-no-Ohashi, a suspension footbridge and the starting point of our walk today over the Handa Kogen plateau to Chojabaru. The bridge spans a gorge into which flow two waterfalls, and many tourists visit here for the attractive views, but as we continue along the trail we increasingly find that we have the path to ourselves, enjoying the scenery that has now opened up to us across the plateau to the towering mountains of Kuju.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant along our walk, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We follow a leisurely path over either flat or gentle rising terrain through picturesque market garden farms and grasslands until we reach Chojabaru, located in the foothills of Kuju and the end of our walk today. Our vehicle takes us along the roads around the Kuju Mountains to our accommodation, a delightful inn beside a river at Nagayu Onsen. Upon arrival, we’ll check in and have some time to relax and settle in for the next two nights. We have the added attraction of nearby Lamune Onsen, which is known for its unusual, fizzy waters. A fantastic spectacle, the baths themselves are housed in equally intriguing buildings designed by Terunobu Fujimori, one of Japan’s lesser-known but no less great architects.
Dinner:
Inn plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure to enjoy the inn.
Day
6
Ancient Carvings, Hilltop Citadel
Location:
Nagayu Onsen
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Daimaru Ryokan
Activity Note
Driving approx. 20 miles; about 2 hours. Walking approx. 7.5 miles total; about 6 hours; country lanes, forest trails; some short steep sections. Total elevation gain of 1,200 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Inn plated meal.
Morning:
Boarding taxis, we travel to the start of our walk. Our route today will take us through hilly countryside, past paddy and arable fields, farmhouses with their well-tended gardens, and alongside water courses that disappear and reappear through tunnels carved into rock. Arriving at Fuko-ji Temple, the scenery suddenly opens up to a giant, fearsome Fudo-Myo deity that was carved into a cliff face long ago. Continuing, we’ll reach the remains of nearby Oka-jo Castle, which offers a striking contrast to our otherwise rural excursion. Only the ramparts remain, but their scale and impressiveness allude to the power that this hilltop citadel once had.
Lunch:
Depending on the weather, we may have a picnic lunch or we will dine in a local restaurant.
Afternoon:
We’ll have time to explore and relax in Taketa, the small town that developed at the foot of the castle to serve it. Besides some pleasant cafés, Taketa also has some interesting boutiques with locally-made crafts, which we’ll get to see before transferring back by taxi to the inn in Nagayu Onsen.
Dinner:
Inn plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
7
Geo Park, Sake Brewery, Beppu, Hot Spring Capital of Japan
Location:
Beppu
Meals:
B,L
Stay:
Nishitetsu Resort Inn Beppu
Activity Note
Driving approx. 45 miles total; about 2.5 hours, with stops. Walking approx. 4.5 miles total; about 2 hours country lanes, forest trails. Total elevation gain of about 341 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
At our inn.
Morning:
After a transfer to the start of our walk, we’ll make our way on foot to Bungo Ono, a rural district with such a wealth of geologically interesting sites that it has been designated a Geo Park by the Japanese Government. Our first destination will be a shrine overlooking horseshoe-shaped waterfalls that are celebrated as a local deity. Crossing the falls, we’ll join part of the Himuku Kaido, an old highway through the area. Today, it has become a quiet, local road, but the buildings along it and the general ambience radiate the feeling of an older age. Upon arrival at a saké brewery, the owner will join us and explain the brewing process while encouraging us to sample her excellent range of brews. For those who would rather not imbibe, the delicious water, which is drawn up from their well and is an essential ingredient in her products, is also available on tap.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Continuing our transfer, we’ll make our way to Beppu, a city with more hot springs than anywhere else in Japan. As such, it takes the crown as the nation’s top onsen destination. While here on foot, we’ll explore the old quarter of Kannawa where onsen literally surround us. Steam emanates from grills in the streets, and above us from towering vents. Locals can be seen throughout the day “to-ing and fro-ing” with towels in hand to the many public baths in the neighborhood. We’ll check into the hotel in the mid-afternoon.
Dinner:
This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like in Beppu. The Group Leader will be happy to offer suggestions.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
8
The Kunisaki Peninsula – Land's End, Kumano Magaibutsu
Location:
Kitsuki
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Matama Spaland Sansuisou
Activity Note
Driving approx. 50 miles; about 2.5 hours. Walking approx. 2.5 miles total; about 3 hours; mostly level paths in Usa Shrine area; lengthy, steep, uneven flight of steps to reach the Kumano Magaibutsu. Total elevation gain of approx. 500 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Hotel buffet.
Morning:
After checking out of the hotel, we’ll transfer to the Oita Prefectural History Museum for an expert-led field trip to see the exhibits, and enjoy a comprehensive introduction to the Kunisaki Peninsula given by a curator. Traveling on, we’ll visit Usa Jingu, one of Japan’s grandest shrines and our next destination. The shrine deifies the protector god of Japan, Hachiman, and was also instrumental in the development of the unique Buddhist culture that developed on the Kunisaki Peninsula.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
A short vehicle transfer will bring us to the impressive Kumano Magaibutsu, a group of some of the largest Buddha relief carvings in Japan. Despite their commanding presence, they are little known outside of the immediate region. Perhaps the short but steep climb through a deep forest to see them precludes visits by many. The effort, though, is well worth it. Our accommodation is located a short drive away. We’ll check in upon arrival with some time to relax before dinner.
Dinner:
Plated meal at the Inn.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
9
Traditional Life in Rural Japan, Makiodo
Location:
Bungo Takada
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Farmstay Experience
Activity Note
Driving approx. 12 miles; about 1 hour total. Walking approx. 2.5 hours, 2.5 miles total; country lanes, forest trails; one short, steep, and rocky section. Total elevation gain of approx. 500 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Near our accommodation.
Morning:
Once checked out of the hotel, we’ll take a short transfer and start our morning activity at Makiodo, a treasure house of Buddhist relics saved from some of the temples, which over the centuries have fallen into ruin on Kunisaki. A gentle stroll from here will take us through Tashibu-no-sho, a charming village with some of the most picturesque countryside found in Japan. Along the way, we’ll come across stone and wooden Buddhist statues perched in caves overlooking farmland scenery that seems to have changed little since Kunisaki’s origins as a Buddhist center some 1,200 years ago. We’ll then transfer to Bungo-takada and go for a stroll with our Group Leader around the small town, which has a pleasant post-war period charm.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
Following lunch, we will be divided into small groups to meet local families, whom we will be staying with in their homes until tomorrow morning. This is always a great opportunity for getting to know some local people and really learning through exposure to Japanese culture first hand.
Dinner:
At home with your hosts.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
10
Fuki-ji Temple – A National Treasure
Location:
Bungo Takada
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Ryoan Fuki no To
Activity Note
Driving approx. 10 miles; about 1/2 hour total. Walking approx. 4 miles total; about 3 hours; country lanes, forest trails, occasionally steep for short sections, and there are portions that can be slippery. Total elevation gain of approx. 750 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
At home with your hosts.
Morning:
Rendezvousing in the mid-morning, we’ll gather with our host families in Bungo-Takada for a farewell ceremony, after which we’ll transfer back to Tashibu-no-Sho to continue our countryside walking.
Lunch:
At a rural café restaurant, we’ll have buffet meals with tea and water.
Afternoon:
Perhaps the most challenging walk of the program, our winding path will take us along uneven forest paths, over a low mountain ridge, along the edges of paddy fields and past the carefully tended gardens of the local farm houses before we eventually end up at our accommodation for tonight in the hamlet of Fuki. With a secluded location adjacent to Kyushu's oldest wooden building (also a designated national treasure), Fuki-ji Temple, there are few more tranquil places in Japan to pass the time, and we will spend two nights here.
Dinner:
At the inn, we’ll have plated meals with tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
11
Ancient Religion in Rural Japan, Meditation, Kunisaki
Location:
Bungo Takada
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Ryoan Fuki no To
Activity Note
Pre-breakfast meditation in Amida Hall of Fuki-ji Temple. Walking approx. 4.5 miles total; about 3 hours; mostly country lanes and uneven forest trails, some sections of stone steps, can be slippery in damp conditions. Total elevation gain of approx. 1,460 feet. Driving approx. 35 miles; about 2.5 hours total. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Inn plated meal.
Morning:
Before breakfast, for those who wish, morning meditation will take place in the Amida Hall of Fuki-ji next door to our accommodation. This is a unique opportunity and strongly recommended. In the event of inclement weather, we will have our meditation in a different temple building. Fuki-ji's main building is a simple, refined wooden structure and, undoubtedly, one of the most beautiful in Japan. We’ll soak up the serene atmosphere here before transferring to Coton-mura, a lakeside park, where we begin our hike today. Our walk will take us past the dam holding back the lake, through forest and a quiet hamlet, which is followed by a climb up and around the side of Yayama, an imposing tent-shaped mountain, and finally to Choan-ji, which was once the most powerful temple in Kunisaki. A castle once dominated the area high above on Mt. Yayama, the well-tended garden is also renowned in the area for its flowers, which bloom throughout the year, as well as autumn leaves. We’ll then head nearby for a quick visit to Tennen-ji Temple. The last resident priest has long gone but the locals maintain the thatched main building that is built into the side of a high cliff.
Lunch:
At a rural restaurant, we’ll have a plated meal with tea and water.
Afternoon:
After lunch, we will board the bus again, and head to Itsutsu-ji Fudo, a small temple structure set into the side of a giant rock outcrop. On a clear day, from here we’ll be able to enjoy views across Kunisaki to the Seto Inland Sea and beyond to Honshu and Shikoku, respectively Japan’s first and fourth main islands. We’ll then return to our accommodation at Fuki-ji.
Dinner:
Inn plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and transfer in the morning.
Day
12
Kitsuki, Castle Town
Location:
Yufuin
Meals:
B,L,D
Stay:
Enokiya Ryokan
Activity Note
Driving about 40 miles; approx. 2.5 hours. Walking approx. 3.5 miles total; about 2 hours; country lanes, forest trails with a few short, steep sections. Total elevation gain of approx. 300 feet. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Inn plated meal.
Morning:
Setting out from the inn after check-out, we’ll travel by vehicle a short distance through the valleys at the heart of Kunisaki and get off the vehicle to begin our walk to visit a quiet rural district on old trails, past farmhouses, kitchen gardens, paddy fields and through forests for an intimate exploration of rural life in modern Japan. En route, we will almost inevitably meet some of the local farmers who work on sustaining and reviving the area, and spend some time chatting with them. Carrying on, we’ll head to Kitsuki aboard our vehicle, once the seat of Kunisaki’s daimyo baron. Now a quiet, elegant town, Kitsuki still retains an air of its feudal past.
Lunch:
At a local restaurant, we’ll have plated meals, plus tea and water; other beverages available for purchase.
Afternoon:
We’ll stroll through Kitsuki's streets, stopping at a former samurai residence, where we will learn about, and join in a tea ceremony. We’ll even get to make some ourselves. After our repast, we’ll transfer via motorcoach to Yufuin, another of Japan’s elegant onsen towns, and check in to our accommodation.
Dinner:
Inn plated meal.
Evening:
At leisure.
Day
13
The Slopes of Mount Yufu
Location:
Yufuin
Meals:
B,D
Stay:
Enokiya Ryokan
Activity Note
Driving about 8 miles; approx. 1/2 hour total. Walking approx. 4.5 miles total; about 4 hours; mountain paths, steep and rocky in places. Total elevation gain of approx. 950 feet. Be sure to bring some warmer clothing, especially a wind breaker, as we walk on more exposed plains on this walk. Please see the walking charts and trail data towards the end of the document for more detail.
Breakfast:
Inn plated meal.
Morning:
Heading out from the inn, we’ll transfer to the start of our partial climb of Mt. Yufu-dake (5,193 feet tall). A grand panorama from its slopes across Kyushu to an active volcano and Beppu Bay awaits us. Part way up we come to a crossroads and from here we make a leisurely descent across open plains and fields back into the centre of Yufuin. It is a further short walk along the river or through the shopping streets to the accommodation. For those who would like a more leisurely time today, Yufuin has many galleries, cafés, shops and restaurants, and is a pleasant place to relax on one’s own whilst the others walk.
Lunch:
We will either stop to buy lunch on the way to the trailhead to have on the trail or have lunch once we are back in town. This meal has been excluded from the program cost and is on your own to enjoy what you like.
Afternoon:
After spending some time enjoying the vista from Mt. Yufu's slopes, we’ll then descend and make our way back to Yufuin and our accommodations to enjoy the thermal hot spring bath. There should also be some time to enjoy the town itself.
Dinner:
We’ll enjoy a celebratory final dinner with tea and water included; other beverages available for purchase. Share some of your favorite experiences from the program with new Road Scholar friends.
Evening:
At leisure. Be sure to prepare for check-out and departures in the morning.
Day
14
Program Concludes
Location:
In Flight
Meals:
B
Activity Note
Hotel check-out by 10:00 a.m. See your program’s travel details regarding transfers.
Breakfast:
Inn plated meal.
Morning:
If you are returning home, safe travels. If you are staying on independently, have a wonderful time. If you are transferring to another Road Scholar program, detailed instructions are included in your Information Packet for that program. We hope you enjoy Road Scholar learning adventures and look forward to having you on rewarding programs in the future. Don’t forget to join our Facebook page and follow us on Instagram. Best wishes for all your journeys!
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MEALS
33 Meals
12 Breakfasts
10 Lunches
11 Dinners
LODGING
Lodgings may differ by date. Select a date to see the lodgings specific to that date.
Showing Lodging For:
- Dec 03, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
- Apr 09, 2025 - Apr 22, 2025
- May 14, 2025 - May 27, 2025
- Oct 01, 2025 - Oct 14, 2025
- Oct 22, 2025 - Nov 04, 2025
- Nov 12, 2025 - Nov 25, 2025
- Dec 03, 2025 - Dec 16, 2025
Participant Reviews
Based on 12 Reviews
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This is a great program for those wishing to see Japan up close. We greatly enjoyed the hiking, the stays at the inns, the food and the very knowledgeable commentary provided by our leader Mario. We saw very few Westerners on our journey through the countryside. By visiting in October, rather than November, we were too early for fall foliage, but had the opportunity to experience the beauty of the rice fields (brilliantly yellow) at harvest time.
— Review left November 1, 2024
walking or hiking almost every day. excellent exploration of kunizake trail and olle trail system
— Review left October 15, 2024
A wonderful, engaging experience.
— Review left July 1, 2024
This was a great trip. Be prepared to move
— Review left June 24, 2024
Walking Western Japan was a great trip with an excellent guide. It worked on many levels.
Scholarly historic and cultural information was provided, but not so much as to be dry and overwhelming. It was well planned and paced with a variety of activities.
To be able to see shrines, temples, castle walls in the mountains where they were built is a rare opportunity that many native Japanese have not experienced. It gives a special historical insight not available in books or museums.
Diane Tincher’s anecdotes about her life as an American transplant were relatable and amusing. We were grateful for her tips on conduct—made plain when we saw another tour’s boisterous disrespect for a religious site--and generally when we had to deal with onsen towels, chopsticks and the endless on/off of shoes.
The walks were as described, level two, somewhat challenging. This is difficult information for a tour to convey. Mature people (I am one) have a range of abilities that vary, depending on the day. However, what our group lacked in fitness, we made up for in spirit and dedication—gaman!
The food was a big part of the experience. The elegant plated ryokan dinners—works of art—and the filling, tasty roadside cafe lunches--. It was wonderful to have Diane translate—cod gonads anyone?
I enjoyed visiting the pottery, sake brewery, miso shop—the choice of smaller, family-owned businesses was key.
Honestly, because I don’t speak Japanese, I dreaded the potential awkwardness of the home stay, but google translate saved the day! It was truly an invaluable opportunity to meet a family and learn about rural life.
Finally, to visit Walk Japan’s headquarters, have tea with their neighbor, and see how integrated they are in their community, was affirming. Good people. Good business. Great tour!
Thank you.
— Review left April 27, 2024
An outstanding and active opportunity to immerse in rural Japanese culture.
— Review left April 26, 2024
Walking Western Japan was a delight. We walked local and forest paths through the beautiful autumn landscape to experience the rich culture in rural areas of Oita Province in Kyushu. We saw few other tourists. The daily mix of temples and shrines, exquisite dining, comfortable inns with gracious hosts, and local features such as a shiitake farm, sake distillery and pottery village led by two friendly and knowledgable guides kept every day invigorating and insightful. We left home with no idea what to expect and returned with new understanding and respect for the Japanese culture and landscape.
— Review left December 12, 2023
I loved every day of this program! Our leadership was very strong. It was a wonderful hiking and cultural experience.
— Review left November 28, 2023
This trip was outsanding in that we visited some off the beaton track places that most tourist would miss when visiting Japan. Staying in so many different types of Ryotans like the one run by Buddhist Monks was lovely. The variety of genuine Japanese food was splendid. Having a smaller goup made the trip more personal. If you want to stretch you self a bit, this is the trip for you. The trip was everything I hoped for and more than I expected.
— Review left May 4, 2023
Hike the Japanese countryside by day with local, expert guides. There you may see a farmer and family harvesting bamboo shoots, or a Buddhist monk or Shinto priest performing his or her duties at their respective temple or shrine, or an ancient rock carving of Buddhist figures, and also will notice how different a bamboo forest is from other forests you have hiked?
By late afternoon (maybe after celebrating with ice cream or another treat) relax in an onsen. Then go to dinner in your yukata with your fellow participants.
If that sounds good to you and you enjoy sashimi, miso soup and other Japanese food, you will likely love this trip. Here’s one tip though. Most onsens have an electric kettle and tea in the room. We brought instant coffee and restocked in Beppu which worked well for us.
— Review left April 25, 2023
Japan is a very welcoming, beautiful, clean, well organized country. The people are very friendly. The hiking, hot pools and hidden temples met or exceeded my expectations
— Review left April 24, 2023
I went to school in Arizona where the Navajos have a greeting: Walk in beauty. If you wish to do so then by all means take Walking in Western Japan in mid-November. The foliage is vivid; the landscape exquisite and slotted with obscure Shinto shrines and Buddhist temples/monasteries.
And for the gourmands among us: the food's great, too.
— Review left December 4, 2019
