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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Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone? 800-454-5768
Select your type of room
Price will update based on selection
Prices displayed below are based on per person,doubleoccupancy.
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
Filling Fast!
May 21 - Jun 3, 2024
Starting at
8,749
Filling Fast!
Oct 2 - Oct 15, 2024
Starting at
8,749
Filling Fast!
Oct 22 - Nov 4, 2024
Starting at
8,749
Itinerary Note

There is a good chance of viewing the fall leaves in some locations on this date.

Nov 12 - Nov 25, 2024
Starting at
8,749
Itinerary Note

This program date is optimal for viewing the fall leaves.

Apr 9 - Apr 22, 2025
Starting at
8,999
May 14 - May 27, 2025
Starting at
8,999
Full Inventory
Oct 1 - Oct 14, 2025
Starting at
8,999
Oct 22 - Nov 4, 2025
Starting at
8,999
Nov 12 - Nov 25, 2025
Starting at
8,999
Full Inventory
Dec 3 - Dec 16, 2025
Starting at
8,999
DATES & starting prices
PRICES
May 21 - Jun 3, 2024
Starting at
9,199
Oct 2 - Oct 15, 2024
Starting at
9,199
Oct 22 - Nov 4, 2024
Starting at
9,199
Itinerary Note

There is a good chance of viewing the fall leaves in some locations on this date.

Nov 12 - Nov 25, 2024
Starting at
9,199
Itinerary Note

This program date is optimal for viewing the fall leaves.

Filling Fast!
Apr 9 - Apr 22, 2025
Starting at
9,629
May 14 - May 27, 2025
Starting at
9,629
Filling Fast!
Full Inventory
Oct 1 - Oct 14, 2025
Starting at
9,629
Filling Fast!
Oct 22 - Nov 4, 2025
Starting at
9,629
Filling Fast!
Nov 12 - Nov 25, 2025
Starting at
9,629
Filling Fast!
Full Inventory
Dec 3 - Dec 16, 2025
Starting at
9,629

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
Micro Group
These adventures feature our smallest group size, with 12 participants or fewer.

What You'll Learn

  • 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
Profile Image
Miwa Fujinuma
Although a Japanese national, Miwa was born in a suburb of Washington D.C., where her family was living at the time for her father’s work. She also lived in Australia with her family, where she became interested in the natural environment and ultimately pursuing a degree in Environmental Economics and Policy. Returning to Japan in 2003, Miwa worked for an environmental consulting company and become fascinated with sustainable living. She now lives in a traditional Japanese farmhouse and partakes in making traditional Japanese goods.

Please note: This expert may not be available for every date of this program.

Profile Image of Miwa Fujinuma
Miwa Fujinuma View biography
Although a Japanese national, Miwa was born in a suburb of Washington D.C., where her family was living at the time for her father’s work. She also lived in Australia with her family, where she became interested in the natural environment and ultimately pursuing a degree in Environmental Economics and Policy. Returning to Japan in 2003, Miwa worked for an environmental consulting company and become fascinated with sustainable living. She now lives in a traditional Japanese farmhouse and partakes in making traditional Japanese goods.
Profile Image of Diane Tincher
Diane Tincher View biography
Originally from Virginia, Diane first arrived in Asia as a young adult. She moved to Tokyo from Manila in 1987, and settled in Kagoshima City in 1995. Diane has a deep love of the natural world and delights in exploring the numerous waterfalls, hiking paths and Edo Period (1603-1868) roads of the Kagoshima region. She has eight adult children, and teaches English at homes for the elderly and the disabled, in kindergarten classes, and privately. Diane joined Walk Japan as a Group Leader in 2018.
Profile Image of Tetsuo Nakahara
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.
Profile Image of Reina Yamada
Reina Yamada View biography
Reina Yamada was born and raised in Yokohama, but spent her teenage years in Dubai and her early adult years in the UK. She graduated from Loughborough University with a sports management degree, and has largely worked in sports development and event management. Reina moved back to Japan in 2019 to work for the Organizing Committee of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. She is passionate about traveling, and enjoying and appreciating the cultures and traditions of countries around the world.
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