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Highlights
Hike coastal trails and ancient pilgrimage paths on the Saba Kaido and Iseji Kumano Kodo
Cruise the scenic coastline and savour the catch of the day in the beautiful port town of Obama.
Hike ancient pilgrimage paths winding through forested mountain passes, tranquil villages, and stunning valleys.
Strike the perfect balance of immersive guided and self-guided experiences as you hike and explore each day.
Visit sacred shrines, enchanting temples, and endless cultural landmarks in this unique and diverse part of Japan.
Step into a world where ancient pilgrimage routes echo with the footsteps of samurai, monks, and seekers on the 9-Day Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour. This trip is more than a journey—it’s a deeply immersive adventure through Japan’s spiritual heartland!
Begin in the seaside town of Obama, wandering traditional streets before hiking the historic Saba Kaidō, a centuries-old trail through serene villages, sacred temples, and mossy mountain passes en route to Kyoto. Continue to Ise Jingu, Japan’s most revered Shinto shrine, and experience a traditional purification ritual at Futamigaura’s ocean shrine. Then venture onto the legendary Kumano Kodō, a UNESCO World Heritage trail, where stone paths wind through mystical forests and ancient shrines like Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kamikura Shrine, offering a deeply moving connection to Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Your journey culminates at the stunning Nachi Falls and Seigantoji Temple, followed by a relaxing hot spring soak and fresh seafood in Nachi Katsuura where the tour concludes. This is Japan off the beaten path—raw, unforgettable, and waiting to be discovered!
Step into a world where ancient pilgrimage routes echo with the footsteps of samurai, monks, and seekers on the 9-Day Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour. This trip is more than a journey—it’s a deeply immersive adventure through Japan’s spiritual heartland!
Begin in the seaside town of Obama, wandering traditional streets before hiking the historic Saba Kaidō, a centuries-old trail through serene villages, sacred temples, and mossy mountain passes en route to Kyoto. Continue to Ise Jingu, Japan’s most revered Shinto shrine, and experience a traditional purification ritual at Futamigaura’s ocean shrine. Then venture onto the legendary Kumano Kodō, a UNESCO World Heritage trail, where stone paths wind through mystical forests and ancient shrines like Kumano Hayatama Taisha and Kamikura Shrine, offering a deeply moving connection to Japan’s spiritual traditions.
Your journey culminates at the stunning Nachi Falls and Seigantoji Temple, followed by a relaxing hot spring soak and fresh seafood in Nachi Katsuura where the tour concludes. This is Japan off the beaten path—raw, unforgettable, and waiting to be discovered!
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Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour Itinerary
Day 1 Arrival in Obama
Start your journey in the charming port town of Obama with a guided half-day walking tour through historic streets, traditional wooden houses, and the Saba-kaido Monument and Museum—an ideal introduction to this charming seaside oasis before your hike begins!
Overnight Location: Hotel Urban Port, Obama or similar
Distance: 4 Hours
Meals: None
Day 2 First Full Day Hike (Guided)
This morning following breakfast, you’ll meet your guide for a full day of hiking along the Saba Kaido. Venture into the mountains and follow the ancient Saba Kaidō, where sacred waters and samurai paths weave through history. Visit landmarks like Jingu-ji Temple and Unose, tied to the 1,300-year-old Omizu-Okuri ritual, then stroll through the tranquil village of Kaminegori and cross the scenic Harihatatoge Pass. End your day at a serene countryside inn, embraced by the peaceful rhythms of nature in Kuta.
Overnight Location: Hisanoya Guest House or similar
Distance: 16 km, 800 m ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 3 Hike Quiet Villages and Wetlands to Kyoto (Guided)
Continue your journey through quiet villages and moss-covered wetlands as you make your way toward the outskirts of Kyoto. This 17 km guided hike passes through the charming Ogose and Omi villages, as well as the lush Haccho-daira Wetlands. The trail concludes at Hanase Pass, marking the end of this unforgettable stretch of the Saba Kaidō. After the hike, a private vehicle will take you to Kyoto, where you’ll spend the night.
Overnight Location: Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station, Kyoto or similar
Distance: 17 km, 1,200 m ascent
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch
Day 4 Explore the Ise Jingu Grand Shrine (Self-Guided)
The journey continues this morning to Ise! Ise Jingu Grand Shrine, the spiritual heart of Shinto, is a vast complex featuring two main shrines: the Geku (Outer Shrine) and the Naiku (Inner Shrine). Today, you can explore the Geku, and before visiting, consider stopping by SENGU KAN (entrance fee not included) to gain deeper insight into the significance of Ise Jingu for the Japanese people.
Overnight Location: Comfort Hotel Ise or similar
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast
Day 5 Discover Futamigaura and the Sacred Naiku Shrine (Self-Guided)
Take a train to Futamigaura this morning, home to the seaside Futami Okitama Jinja, where pilgrims traditionally purified their mind, body, and spirit before continuing to Ise Grand Shrine. After your visit, catch a local bus to the Naiku area, where you’ll find a wide variety of restaurants for lunch in Oharai-machi or Okage Yokocho. Once refreshed, explore Naiku—the most sacred shrine with a history spanning over 1,500 years.
Overnight Location: Comfort Hotel Ise or similar
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast
Day 6 Coastal Journey and First Steps on the Majestic Kumano Kodo (Self-Guided)
A private vehicle will drive you along the coast to Owase, where you’ll take a lunch break at a roadside station before starting your first hike on the stunning Kumano Kodo trail. The ascent up Magose Pass offers some of the most breathtaking views along the entire route. After your rewarding hike, relax with a delicious dinner and a restful night in Owase.
Overnight Location: Hotel Viora, Owase or similar
Distance: 5.2 km, 3-4 hours, 325 m ascent
Meals: Breakfast
Day 7 Sacred Paths and Spiritual Encounters on the Kumano Trail (Self-Guided)
Take the train from Owase to Odomari to begin today’s hike along cobblestone paths, passing serene Buddhist statues at Matsumoto Pass. Along the way, visit a massive sacred rock at one of Japan’s oldest shrines, then take a bus to Kumano Hayatama Taisha, where the sacred Kumano-gawa River meets the Pacific Ocean.
Finally, explore Kamikura Shrine, believed to be the spot where the god of Hayatama Taisha first descended from the heavens. After a full day of spiritual reflection and nature worship, unwind at a charming Japanese snack bar run by two former Geishas.
Overnight Location: Hotel New Palace, Shingu, or similar
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast
Day 8 Nachi Taisha Shrine, Nachi Falls and Seigantoji Temple (Self-Guided)
This morning a train, bus, and short walk will take you to the day’s highlight: Nachi Taisha Shrine, along with nearby Nachi Falls and Seigantoji Temple. As one of the three sacred Kumano Sanzan shrines, Nachi Taisha has drawn pilgrims for centuries and is sure to be a highlight of your time in this region.
Overnight Location: Kyukamura Nanki Katsuura in Nachikatsuura-cho or similar
Distance: Flexible
Meals: Breakfast, Dinner
Day 9 Hot Springs and Farewell
On the final day of your tour, relax in the soothing hot springs at your hotel or the communal bath in Nachi Katsuura before visiting the local seafood market to savor the freshest catches. Afterwards, take the train to Osaka to conclude your journey.
Overnight Location: None
Distance: None
Meals: Breakfast
Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour Price and Dates
2026 Pricing for Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking TourThe Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour is offered from September through November and February through June in 2026. Pricing for this private tour depends on group size, room types, trip customizations, and date of travel. The starting price for four people based in two double or twin rooms is JPY539250 per person. Enquire now to start building your perfect adventure for 2026!
Accommodation on Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour
This tour is based in hotels. Hotels on this trip are 3 and 4-star and offer modern conveniences that can make this trip more pleasant. Rooms may have fireplaces or access to amenities such as hot tubs, steam rooms, or private decks to lounge on.
In some cases, the accommodation listed below may need to be substituted for other comparable accommodations.
Single Rooms and Solo Travellers
Rooms are based on double occupancy. A single supplement is available for a private room when possible. Solo travelers may need to pay an additional fee.
Night 1
Hotel Urban Port, Obama ★★★
Hotel Urban Port in Obama is a comfortable seaside hotel offering scenic views of Wakasa Bay and easy access to the historic streets of the city. Known for its warm hospitality and fresh local seafood, it provides a relaxing base for exploring the Saba Kaidō and surrounding cultural sites.
Night 2
Hisanoya Guest House
Hisanoya Guest House is a charming, family-run inn nestled in the quiet village of Kaminegori, offering a warm, authentic atmosphere and traditional Japanese hospitality. Surrounded by nature and history, it provides a peaceful retreat along the historic Saba Kaidō trail.
Night 3
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station
Mitsui Garden Hotel Kyoto Station offers modern comfort and convenience just steps from Kyoto Station, making it an ideal base for exploring the city. With stylish rooms, thoughtful amenities, and seamless access to transport, it combines functionality with refined Japanese hospitality.
Night 4-5
Comfort Hotel Ise
Comfort Hotel Ise offers modern, budget-friendly accommodation just a short walk from Iseshi Station, making it a convenient choice for visiting Ise Jingu and other local attractions. Guests enjoy clean, comfortable rooms, a complimentary breakfast, and easy access to both the Geku and Naiku shrine areas.
What’s Included in the Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour?
Meals
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches and 2 dinners are included.
Accommodations
Accommodations for 8 nights are included. Accommodations before and after the tour are not included.
Transportation during the Tour
Transportation for you and your luggage are included throughout the tour according to the itinerary including some private vehicle transfers. There are several public transport transfers on this tour including by train and bus. Some public transport tickets are included, and others must be purchased onsite.
Also included
- English-speaking guides according to the itinerary
- Excursions mentioned in the itinerary (guided days only)
- IC Card and some train tickets
Not included
- Flights
- Meals, drinks, or snacks not previously mentioned
- Guide for self-guided days
- Gratuities for tour guides or other staff if desired
Optional Extras
- Additional nights before or after the tour
- Single occupancy upgrades
- Optional activities or excursions
- How hard is the Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour?
- Do I need a visa to travel to Japan?
- Are meals included on the Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour?
- Do I need insurance?
- How do I get to Obama to start this tour?
- Is the Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour in English?
- Where does the Saba Kaido & Iseji Kumano Kodo Hiking Tour end?
- Do I need special vaccines to travel to Japan?
- Are there any travel restrictions for Japan?
We rate this tour as a 3/5. This is an active tour where you’ll be hiking moderate distances with moderate elevation. Guests who are physically fit will get the most out of this tour.
Check with your local country about visa requirements. You could also try this website, though you should verify with your government.
8 breakfasts, 2 lunches, and 2 dinners are included.
Yes, it is mandatory to have health and medical insurance to join this trip, and your insurance should cover the activities listed in the itinerary. Get your travel insurance.
Fly into Komatsu Airport or Osaka International Airport. Obama can be reached by train.
Yes, the tour guide on guided days is English-speaking.
The tour ends in Nachikatsuura. From here you can take the train to Osaka to depart.
Check with your family doctor.
Please check with your local government about travel restrictions before you book your tour. This map from the US Department of State provides an overview of the current status in countries around the globe. The UK‘s Foreign Office and Government of Canada also provide advice on foreign travel. Note that the travel advice may change depending on your nationality.
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